Bark on the Ark

If you’re a dog owner who loves spending time outdoors and wants to include your furry friend in your adventures, Bark on the Ark might just be the experience for you. This tour, offered once a month in Naples, takes you on a relaxing cruise through Naples Bay, culminating in a day on quiet, sandy Keewaydin Island. Although it’s not a typical sightseeing cruise, the chance for your pup to enjoy a beach day while you soak in the views makes it pretty special.

We’re drawn to how this experience is designed with pet owners in mind—highlighting the joys of sharing a day at the beach with your four-legged friend. The easy-to-join schedule, limited group size, and thoughtful touches like goodie bags for dogs make it appealing. On the flip side, the fact that the trip is only offered once a month and allows just one dog per person could be a limiting factor for some.

If you’re a dog lover looking for a memorable day out, especially if you want to combine a boat ride with beach time, Bark on the Ark is likely worth considering. Just keep in mind the weather dependency and the small number of spots available.

Key Points

• Exclusive monthly experience ideal for dog owners wanting a special day on the water
• Includes a scenic cruise with views of luxury homes and natural beauty
• One dog per person policy ensures a relaxed environment but limits participation
• Well-organized for pups, with goodie bags and beach time on Keewaydin Island
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind—full refunds if canceled before departure
• Price of $74.98 per person reflects a full, 3.5-hour outing with thoughtful extras

Exploring the Details of Bark on the Ark

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining your love of boating, beaches, and your dog, this tour hits some of those sweet spots. It’s not just about the cruise itself—it’s about creating a relaxing, pet-friendly outing that allows you to enjoy Naples’ scenic beauty in the company of your four-legged friend. Let’s break down what makes this experience stand out, as well as some of its limitations.

The Itinerary: A Mix of Cruising and Beach Relaxation

The tour begins bright and early at 8:00 am from 1200 5th Ave S, Naples. The first part of the journey involves a cruise around Naples Bay, where you get to pass by some stunning multi-million dollar homes. The boat, operated by Pure Florida, offers a light narration about the area—enough to keep you engaged without overwhelming the experience.

This part of the cruise is practical and scenic. The boat has restroom facilities, and there’s complimentary water onboard, which is a considerate touch on a warm morning. We loved the way the boat’s design allows for good views and easy conversation, making it feel laid-back and comfortable.

Keewaydin Island: A Beach Day with Your Dog

After about an hour and a half of cruising, you arrive at Keewaydin Island, a pristine stretch of untouched sandy beaches. This is the highlight for many: your dog gets to run free on the beach while you take in the scenery. Pure Florida provides goodie bags, complete with a ball, treats, water, and biodegradable bowls, which add a thoughtful touch—your pup will appreciate the treats and playtime.

The island itself is a quiet, natural paradise, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a nap in the sand. Though only one dog per person is allowed, reviews suggest that owners find the experience well worth it. One reviewer even called it a “dog day at the beach,” highlighting how joyful and relaxing it can be for both dogs and their owners.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts around 3 hours and 30 minutes, with roughly one and a half hours at the island. This gives enough time for a good beach visit without feeling rushed. The maximum group size is 30 travelers, which keeps the atmosphere intimate and manageable—ideal if you’re looking to avoid crowded tours.

Pricing and Value

At $74.98 per person, this trip isn’t exactly a bargain, but it’s priced in line with other niche boat experiences. The cost includes the cruise, the goodie bags, water, and on-board amenities. Considering that you’re getting a relaxed, pet-friendly outing with scenic views and the chance for your dog to enjoy the beach, many would see value here.

Plus, the full refund policy up to 2 hours before departure makes it easier to book with confidence, especially if weather conditions turn sour or your plans change.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The glowing reviews are worth noting. One happy traveler called it a “fun and joyful day for the dogs,” mentioning that their pups were worn out after the outing and that the crew was “very professional.” Another said it was a “great time for people and dogs,” emphasizing how perfect it was for sharing a morning with both their furry and human friends.

From these, it’s clear that the experience is appreciated for its relaxed vibe, stunning views, and the opportunity for dogs to have a blast. The reviews also highlight that the crew is friendly and accommodating, which makes a difference in how enjoyable your day will be.

Practical Considerations

While this tour offers a lot of positives, keep in mind a few practical points:

• Only one dog per person means if you’re traveling with multiple pups, you’ll need separate tickets.
• Weather can impact the trip, and cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable. However, if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• The trip is most suitable for travelers who want a laid-back, pet-friendly experience rather than a high-energy adventure.
• The tour is accessible via public transportation nearby, which is convenient if you’re staying in or near Naples.
• The duration and group size make for a comfortable outing, but it’s not a long day—perfect if you’re already exploring Naples and want a quick, memorable side trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re a dog owner who values outdoor fun and scenic views without the crowds or hustle. It’s perfect for pet parents who want to include their dogs in their vacation activities and are happy with a casual, guided cruise. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate natural beauty and want to see Naples from the water in a relaxed setting.

If your pup loves the beach, or if you simply enjoy a peaceful boat ride with a friendly crew, Bark on the Ark could be a highlight of your trip. However, if you’re after a longer adventure or aren’t comfortable with weather-dependent plans, this might not be the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for all dogs?
While most dogs are welcome, the tour’s policy limits one dog per person, so it’s best suited for well-behaved, socialized pups comfortable with being on a boat and at the beach.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, including cruising and beach time.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat cruise, goodie bags for your dog, water, and onboard restroom facilities. The goodie bags contain treats, a ball, water, and biodegradable bowls.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are fully refundable if made at least 2 hours before departure. The policy is flexible for weather-related cancellations too.

Is there a minimum or maximum number of travelers?
The tour can accommodate up to 30 travelers, making it a comfortable size for a small group.

What if the weather isn’t good?
If poor weather leads to cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at 1200 5th Ave S in Naples. The tour starts promptly at 8:00 am.

Final Thoughts

Bark on the Ark offers a charming twist on the usual boat tour, especially if you’re traveling with your dog and want to share a beach day together. The combination of scenic cruising, a quiet island escape, and thoughtful extras like goodie bags makes it a memorable outing. It’s a good choice for pet owners who enjoy relaxed, natural settings and don’t mind a weather-dependent schedule.

While it’s not a daily occurrence, the limited availability only adds to its appeal—this feels like a special treat rather than an everyday activity. If you value views, a laid-back vibe, and your dog loves the water and sand, you’ll likely find this tour a worthwhile addition to your Naples trip.

In the end, it’s about sharing a beautiful day with your best friend—what could be better?