Do I need to make reservations in advance?
Reservations are strongly recommended. Our schedules vary and are published by Friday for the upcoming week. Reservations are accepted once the schedule is available. A credit card number is required to secure all reservations. You may pay however you wish upon arrival. If you have a party of 20 or more, please contact us regarding the date you are interested in and we will follow up with you promptly.
What if I have to cancel my reservation?
You may cancel your reservation up to 3 hours before the scheduled departure time without penalty. If your reservation included the meal, your credit card will be charged for the meal portion of the ticket if after the 3 hour window.
Is sales tax included in the list price?
The ticket price does not include 6% FL State tax, $5.00 port charge or meal service charge. Please add $10.00 - $12.00 pp depending on the type of cruise you are booking.
Are drinks included in my ticket price?
No, beverages may be purchased on board from our two full service bars. You may pay with cash or credit card on board. Coffee is included if you are joining us for Dinner.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Personal beverages and food are not permitted to be brought on board for insurance and licensing reasons.
Is gratuity included in my ticket?
There is a small “service charge” included in your ticket for your meal. Gratuity is always appreciated for your Captain and crew as they work very hard to ensure the best possible experience for all of our guests!
Can children go on the cruise?
Yes, we welcome all ages! We do ask that children under 11 are supervised by an adult at all times during the cruise for their safety and our other guests comfort.
Is there a restroom on board?
Yes, there are two restrooms on board.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Please mention if someone in your party is in a wheelchair or may need other special assistance while boarding.
Is there assigned seating?
We do reserve tables on our Dinner cruises. A tent card will be on your table and the Captain will point out where it is located when you board. If you have a specific place you would like to be seated, please ask when you reserve and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
What time do I need to arrive for a cruise?
We begin boarding 30 – 45 minutes before scheduled departure time. You will be informed of the actual boarding time when you place your reservation. You may want to arrive shortly before boarding time to check in at the Sunshine Tours Chickee Hut, purchase your ticket, and receive your boarding pass.
What about parking?
You may park anywhere in the lot near the dock that says 2 hours or in any unmarked spot. Additional parking is available in the lot across the street on the other side of Bald Eagle Drive.
What if it is raining?
We sail rain or shine. Cruises are only cancelled due to extremely severe and unsafe weather and you will be notified in advance in the rare case that this happens.
Where does the Marco Island Princess cruise?
Typically, the Princess cruises down the calm waters of the Marco River, past Isles of Capri, into Collier and Smokehouse Bays where you will see some of our beautiful homes, Osprey nests, mangrove islands and playing dolphin. We then sail out into the Gulf of Mexico, conditions permitting, to view the beautiful coastline of Marco and our spectacular Sunset.
Is there narration?
All of our cruises have some narration by the Captain pointing out areas of interest and general information about Marco Island. Our daytime Nature & History cruise includes in-depth narration about the development of Marco Island, the wildlife and nature that make our beautiful Island so special!
Will I get seasick?
The Marco Island Princess is a large, stable boat and the Marco River and bay waters are usually very calm. While the Gulf of Mexico sometimes can be choppy, very little motion is felt on board the boat. If the Gulf is rough we stay near the pass. Therefore, seasickness is very rare. If you are particularly prone to motion sickness, please do consider consulting your physician prior to going on the cruise.
Is smoking permitted?
Smoking is permitted on the outer decks. We do ask that smokers are considerate of our other guests and use ashtrays that are located in designated areas.
Is there a dress code?
No, there is not a dress code but of course shirts and shoes are required. Casual to dressy attire is often seen on our Public cruises!
Is the Marco Island Princess available for large groups and private Charters?
Yes! We are the perfect venue for Weddings, Corporate events, birthdays, anniversaries or any special occasion! Our event planners and crew will ensure your guests have the most memorable cruise. Please click "Online Inquiry," to send your inquiry and we will be happy to assist you.
Are Gift Certificates available for your cruises?
Yes! You may purchase a Gift Certificate over the phone, 239-642-5415, or by clicking "Online Inquiry," with your request.
