Florida: Sharkey’s Guided Fish Feeding LED Night Tour

Imagine paddling through calm Florida waters under a sky full of stars, illuminated by vibrant LED lights, with marine creatures swimming right beneath your kayak. That’s exactly what the Sharkey’s Guided Fish Feeding LED Night Tour offers—a one-of-a-kind adventure that blends light, nature, and a bit of magic. It’s a tour that promises a truly unique glimpse into the nocturnal marine life of Venice, FL, and honestly, it’s unlike anything else we’ve come across.

What truly stands out about this experience are its visual spectacle—thanks to the custom high-powered LED lighting system—and the interactive fish feeding session that gets you close to the action. Plus, the tour’s tranquil setting and the chance to spot seabirds nesting or hunting around mangroves add to its appeal. However, it’s worth mentioning that the tour lasts just over an hour, which might feel brief if you’re craving a full evening of exploration.

This experience suits those who are curious about marine life, love being outdoors at night, or simply want a memorable, Instagram-worthy adventure. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even family members who appreciate nature and a bit of fun without being overly strenuous or complex.

Key Points

• Unique LED Fish Feeding: The tour’s highlight is the immersive fish feeding experience with glowing fish swimming up close.
• Calm, Protected Waters: Launching from Nokomis Boat Ramp, the waters are gentle and ideal for kayaking, even at night.
• Underwater Views: The clear glass bottom kayaks reveal marine life beneath you in real-time.
• Wildlife Watching: Expect to see schools of mullet, snook, sheepshead, and potentially rays or nurse sharks.
• Educational & Entertaining: The tour combines fun with natural learning in a relaxed, guided setting.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the LED Night Kayaking Experience

When we think about typical kayaking trips, daytime paddling and peaceful scenery often come to mind. But this tour flips that idea on its head—by introducing an electrifying LED-lit environment that makes marine life pop against the night sky. It’s designed to be both visually stunning and interactive, making it a hit whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a casual explorer.

The tour begins at the Nokomis Boat Ramp, a straightforward meeting spot as shown in the photos. Once you arrive, you’ll be provided with all the gear—kayaks, life jackets, and fish food. The group is guided by a friendly, English-speaking guide who will lead you through protected coastal waters, usually during the evening hours.

Paddling these tranquil waters is surprisingly easy, even for beginners. The waters are calm, and the guided nature of the tour means you’re not left to navigate alone. We loved the way the LED lights dramatically illuminate the seafloor, illuminating shallow areas where marine life gathers. Seeing schools of fish swimming towards your glowing kayak feels almost surreal, as if you’ve stepped into an underwater fairy tale.

Marine Life and Nature Encounters

As you glide through the waters, the custom lighting system highlights seagrass beds, sandy patches, and the creatures that inhabit them. The experience isn’t just about the lights; it’s about what you see beneath. According to reviews, you’ll often spot a range of local fish species like mullet, snook, and sheepshead. Some reports mention the possibility of encountering curious stingrays or even small nurse sharks passing by, adding a sense of thrill.

A significant part of the tour’s charm is the fish feeding session. The guide feeds the fish, and they swim right up to your kayak, sometimes so close you could almost touch them. One reviewer mentioned, “It was incredible having fish swim right up to us, glowing and curious.” This interaction creates a sense of closeness to nature that’s hard to match in a typical tour.

You’ll also enjoy the chance to observe seabirds nesting or hunting in the mangroves along the shoreline. Herons, pelicans, and egrets are often spotted, adding further layers of interest to the experience. It’s a peaceful, slow-paced journey that emphasizes observing and appreciating the local ecosystem.

The Magical LED Hologram Finale

To cap off the night, the tour features a mesmerizing LED hologram animation display. This digital light show adds a whimsical, almost magical element to the experience. It’s an unexpected treat that leaves many guests smiling and sharing photos—an ideal way to end a memorable night under the stars.

Practical Details

Duration: The tour lasts around 75 minutes, which is perfect if you’re short on time but want a complete experience. It generally takes place in the evening, aligning with the best viewing conditions for marine life and night-time visuals.

Cost: At $62 per person, the tour offers a good balance of value—considering the unique visual and interactive elements. It’s not an inexpensive outing, but the private, guided aspect and the novelty of LED lighting justify the price for many.

What’s Included: You get all the gear—kayaks, life jackets, and fish food—so you can focus on paddling and enjoying the sights without extra hassle.

What’s Not Included: Food, water, and transportation are not part of the package, so plan accordingly. Since the meeting point is straightforward, transportation isn’t usually a concern, but arriving prepared makes for a smoother experience.

Accessibility & Suitability: The tour isn’t suitable for people with heart problems, and it’s generally geared toward those comfortable with water-based activities. While families can enjoy it, the main focus is on the experience rather than a kid-friendly outing.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the visual appeal of the LED lights and the interactive fish feeding. One guest mentioned, “Seeing the fish swim right up to us in the dark was something I’ll never forget.” Others appreciated the calm, scenic environment and the chance to observe wildlife in a relaxed setting.

Some note that the tour duration feels just right—long enough to see a variety of marine life but not so long that it drags. The guide’s friendliness and the well-organized setup receive consistent praise, making it clear that the experience is well-run.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurers looking for a night-time activity, nature lovers wanting an up-close encounter with marine life, or anyone curious to see Venice’s waters from a different perspective. It’s equally good for couples seeking a romantic outing or groups of friends wanting a fun, glowing adventure.

If you’re traveling with children, younger ones who enjoy boats and animals might find it exciting, but keep in mind the water activity and darkness could be a consideration. It’s best for those comfortable with paddling and who have no heart health concerns.

The Sum Up

The Sharkey’s Guided Fish Feeding LED Night Tour offers a genuinely different way to experience Venice, FL. Combining calming paddling, stunning LED visuals, and interactive marine encounters, it’s a memorable outing that’s both peaceful and captivating. The tour’s sheer novelty—glowing fish, starry skies, and digital holograms—makes it stand out among typical outdoor activities.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers craving a visual spectacle that’s easy to enjoy and educational enough to satisfy curiosity about local marine ecosystems. While the experience isn’t overly long, it offers a rich, immersive slice of Florida’s coastal beauty, perfect for those who appreciate a mix of light-hearted fun and natural wonder.

If you’re after a relaxing, visually striking adventure that’s a little different from the usual sunset cruises or daytime kayaking, this tour hits many right notes. Just remember to dress appropriately for the evening chill and bring your camera to catch the glowing fish and hologram show.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the waters are calm and protected, making it accessible even for those new to kayaking. The guide is there to help you enjoy the experience comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
The guided experience lasts about 75 minutes, providing plenty of time to enjoy the lights, wildlife, and interactive fish feeding.

What should I bring?
Since food and water aren’t included, consider bringing water, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and your camera or phone for pictures.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally suitable for those comfortable with water activities. It’s advisable to consider individual comfort levels with paddling and darkness.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrive at the Nokomis Boat Ramp on your own.

What is the best time for this tour?
Evening tours are typical, maximizing the LED effects and wildlife sightings after sunset.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see schools of mullet, snook, sheepshead, and possibly rays or small nurse sharks passing by.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While it’s suitable for families and groups, children should be comfortable with paddling and nighttime conditions.

Whether you’re after a fun night out or a peaceful way to connect with Florida’s marine life, Sharkey’s LED Fish Feeding Night Tour offers a memorable, visually captivating experience that’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: