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From exploring the mangroves behind his childhood house to swimming in the Gulf waters he developed a deep understanding and appreciation for his surrounding marine environment. It was with this foundation that he formed his dream of sharing the importance of the recognition and conservation of local marine species and their ongoing protection. After completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Miami, Plein led private kayak excursions on the islands of Captiva and Maui, where he honed his craft as an ocean guide. Captain Steve holds a masters merchant marine credential and is a certified PADI rescue diver. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/254bc9ff-fa31-4132-a044-fa724dd24b13/421195688_10122372505646280_6389783745967072103_n.jpg Welcome - Stefanie Plein, M.S. Marine Biologist Stefanie draws from an extensive education and research in the marine biology field. She earned a Master of Science degree in Biology from Western Illinois University while studying the home range use patterns of resident bottlenose dolphin in the Adriatic Sea (Croatia). She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Ecology, Evolution, and Animal Behavior from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Stefanie has studied manatee with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission and has volunteered for nine years with Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s sea turtle nesting program and FWC’s SWFL marine mammal stranding program. Plein enjoys marine science education and has taught 3.5 years of Marine Biology to undergraduates at Florida Gulf Coast University. Her love of photography has led her to becoming a two-time award winning international sea turtle photo contest winner for the Sea Turtle Conservancy ‘s Turtle Scenes Calendar Plein is a certified PADI rescue diver. Follow Stefanie’s adventures on instagram @stefsea https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/d829cc9d-58c5-4fc5-86a7-b76a288d154e/435491366_10122626652638670_8097428642350583552_n.jpg Welcome - Dawson & Rackham, Retired First Mates Dawson & his younger potcake brother Rackie love exploring endless white sandy beaches, playing with coconuts, and searching for seashells. They are both rescues - Dawson coming from the Miami shelter and Rackie from the streets of Turks and Caicos Islands. While they used to enjoy coming out on our eco tours, they are now both enjoying their retirement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/462a818d-d642-4dd4-9acc-dcbb519ddded/IMG_7256.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1610900554215-Z3MVEQLOZDWNCH85W2BT/image-asset.jpeg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1651759816094-C63YL5F76Q8IPJ0MQWH0/DJI_0472.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1651759815562-SL3XODQK6YY5462EMZUY/DJI_0470.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1651759825021-HNRELEXD1I7SDACPPIZL/DJI_0476.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622381445-KVCHRVWEVX2SOZ40LJVG/327794395_530300165972092_6098328646101885042_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622375113-4Z7ZBU7POXC8YPQF51LB/291136513_3231685620429579_1160514164266363968_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622370377-1EGP06NNT8E543AMUP5R/279495979_3165529577045184_8167511253251794904_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622375144-VEDO9A90O9G44L5ZD7TN/293993861_3245173405747467_21986391761271455_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622375823-MGGDUQMR2DR7L88OK8S2/320372675_866562291353176_6280465197966278809_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622375863-JIE2GG1VRN477P7K1NAH/326967305_3287273034919253_4284992316364022625_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622381457-8A5TG2XONO6KFYCYL6Q5/332850851_469593635268448_5706902492681556300_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622382212-0OWKH5JCWWZ2PJ8RHZE5/272436663_3043084505956359_3599898887558523792_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622570416-RAQIFTAM1GXT315KG7IF/273565411_3072163643048445_1458605673919512333_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622570478-X79TOSDZCKWS0Q110DTP/274597709_3095421944055948_8607849745558017926_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622571147-45SZWPG1D9XU5FCKHJ4Q/278076621_3143054069292735_3105864257593150862_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622632213-NPDM3FPCKI86S00ONVDN/242143302_2934769460121198_4040657105144976801_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622632229-1R3N2ZMC9YMX2BISMZKJ/245654155_2955910188007125_4881673410202084036_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622632951-5MPNG6UUY3CORWLRXXLI/251526130_2966471733617637_6321502201925170749_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622632998-R0A4MAJ35R1NEWLNIUAJ/260275865_2981537945444349_486363317685660308_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622633673-TIHE0OZGKBAWURN4YMAA/271603951_3027070157557794_8352935242993464394_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622633720-EGZMUC32QJNI6OGEQVJC/272514339_3043896025875207_7684714108421682738_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622751007-R9YRCU6W25XJR10P4YMC/66119972_2300691526862331_2220884394275504128_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622751059-CA9CJVVC4FWSQ4UQX19Q/96866341_2555889628009185_5862514167289741312_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1696622751783-FJ3YTCCP52JT6B3XDFBW/206094081_2871884989742979_4404185100991324218_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/004b5366-1684-4d5f-af95-4f5624d05151/IMG_5038.jpg Welcome - What to Expect Our tours are always private for up to 6 passengers as set by the US Coast Guard. Get ready for an unforgettable day immersed in nature! Our private tours take you on a scenic journey through Southwest Florida’s pristine waters, filled with incredible wildlife encounters. Your Adventure Includes: ✔ Wildlife Spotting – Search for dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, sharks, rays, large snails, and coastal birds as we cruise along the mangroves and nearshore waters. Every tour is unique! ✔ Barrier Island Beaches – We travel north to secluded barrier island beaches, covering approximately 30 nautical miles on a full-day tour. ✔ Seasonal Snorkeling (April–November) – In warmer months, explore the grass flats and beaches, where you can find beautiful shells and observe marine life. ✔ Waterfront Lunch Stop (Full-Day Tour) – Enjoy a meal at the iconic Cabbage Key or Tarpon Lodge, surrounded by stunning island views. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/a05037c9-b64d-4b7d-b07d-e98a24cba09f/IMG_5059.jpg Welcome - Mobility & Accessibility Our tours are active and require mobility to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Please note: ✔ Boarding & Exiting the Boat – You’ll need to use a ladder (assisted) to get on and off the boat. ✔ Walking Through Water – Expect to walk through knee- to thigh-deep water to reach the beach. ✔ Getting Wet – Be prepared to get wet! While water shoes are recommended, they are not required. We welcome all ages, but if you have any mobility limitations or special needs, please inform us in advance. We’ll do our best to accommodate you for a safe and memorable adventure! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1542818275719-3IBN23TMTT64KMMM0L27/36322749_2056162984648521_4756731565139034112_n.jpg Welcome - Snorkeling for Seashells When the water is calm and clear, we provide assorted snorkel gear for you to explore the shallow waters just off the beaches. This is one of the best ways to discover seashells, sand dollars, and other marine treasures often overlooked by beachgoers. Important Snorkeling Details: ✔ Shallow-Water Snorkeling – Less than 5 feet deep, making it ideal for all skill levels. ✔ Weather Dependent – Snorkeling is only possible in calm conditions; strong winds may prevent access. ✔ Fins Not Required – Enjoy a relaxed snorkeling experience without the need for fins. ✔ Seasonal Activity – Snorkeling is typically available from April to November. Respect Local Conservation Laws ⚠ It is illegal in Lee County, Florida, to collect live seashells (mollusks), sand dollars, and sea urchins (echinoderms). Please admire marine life responsibly! Plan your trip with the possibility of snorkeling, but remember—Mother Nature has the final say! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1730566126430-LGSX644MMXIQNHFRCO53/TC-Sticker-2023_White.gif Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1730566136238-0S560BI6KW64NBQC4THU/Animation-TC_TCBOTB_2022.gif Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1730566141438-QGEQZ3BWXSEM0Z66UYWI/TC-Winner-2021.gif Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1730566149713-BFN0IGLFS6GS904WQ8LI/ORANGE_LARGE_FEATURED_KAYAK_img6.png Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1730566159634-X1D7VM11UAWH6MW7XDEH/42_of_the_absolute_best_eco_adv._in_US.png Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1730576124353-5O5OS3GYR8N2EFI87FKZ/344869455_140722872306503_3908993506217691145_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1559082063599-5VH3II9AX6TJ9XLO5E3P/PP_00015_2019_COE-2.png Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1548356164407-WY36CBG1DQ37A08FBODR/27709603_1983108965287257_2494245529261656201_o.jpg Welcome Bald eagle on North Captiva Island https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1548350945232-4QZ1IF53LOEHW3VO5N1A/IMG_9078.jpg Welcome Shelling with New Wave https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1548350835694-9YG3AOBOZITZ4AI77VIU/IMG_4132.jpg Welcome A sand dollar as large as your head https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1570148110131-M4PSWWO1ATXX7IX2F1ZP/66797027_10114033999105230_1545660551172980736_o.jpg Welcome - Media Comeback couple: Husband, wife lost home and business after Ian. Not their dreams The Washington Post x Washington Post Creative Group x Visit Florida - Secrets of Florida Matador Network x Visit Florida x Crocs x The Hambrick Family - A sweet stay in Sanibel Wanderlust Travel Magazine - The ultimate guide to the wildlife of Florida Wanderlust Travel Magazine - Florida: The wildlife destination you didn’t know existed Wanderlust Travel Magazine - The best outdoor experiences in Fort Myers Wanderlust Travel Magazine - Secret Florida: Rediscovering the Sunshine State https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/3330bc1a-c472-4fed-9344-551f34ad8fbd/67504715_2315714448693372_3989812051462586368_n.jpg Welcome Island Sun Newspaper - UK Magazine to Feature Captiva Eco Business Times of the Islands - Captiva's New Wave Eco Charters Aims To Navigate Waters As 'Stewards Of The Sea' FlightNetwork - The 42 Absolute Best Eco-Adventures in the United States This Year Sanibel-Captiva Islander Stephen Plein leads by example Sugar and Soul - What to do in Fort Myers Beach, Florida Prior to co-founding New Wave Eco Charters with her husband, Stefanie Plein (née Wolf) spent 3.5 years working as a Marine Naturalist for the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum. She was featured in the below publications. Huffington Post - The Art of Shelling: Shellcationing in Sanibel and Captiva Charleston Gazette-Mail WV Travel Team: Lessons about seashells on Sanibel Island Sanibel-Captiva Islander Marine biologist’s travels led to dream job on Sanibel The Gulf: The Making of an American Sea by Jack E. Davis (Pulitzer Prize for History Winner) difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/7871985d-798f-4b0a-a590-54d5b3a452a2/Latt+and+Att.jpg Welcome - As Featured in Latitudes and Attitudes Magazine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1599072598685-70VF4HZ227ETYKJ0LMCI/08-16-20-08-40-44_Waterlust%2BLogo%2Bwith%2Btext%2Bblue.png Welcome - Support Ocean Conservation We’re excited to partner with Waterlust, an ocean conservation-driven apparel brand dedicated to protecting marine life. For over seven years, Stefanie has loved their whale shark leggings, praising their high-quality, eco-friendly design and commitment to giving back to marine conservation. Founded by ocean science graduates from the University of Miami—Captain Steve’s alma mater—Waterlust combines science, sustainability, and style. Their apparel features unique, marine-inspired prints designed to raise awareness and support the conservation of endangered species and fragile ecosystems. Why Choose Waterlust? ✔ 10% of profits support marine science research & education ✔ Eco-friendly fabrics: Made from recycled materials, resistant to chlorine, saltwater, and sunscreen ✔ UPF 50+ sun protection for outdoor adventures ✔ Quick-dry, ultra-soft, and durable performance gear Whether you’re scuba diving, free-diving, hiking, kayaking, sailing, surfing, practicing yoga, or exploring nature, Waterlust apparel is designed for you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1724352553127-Q6G0KCOZ7HK25XYZMC2U/118693787_10116698445238820_5130271902029352334_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1605356445471-HHJEX4SKDK8ELZGQHJHK/PB020186.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1599072120522-O192F91F8HUBSOFKT07Q/P5201354.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/1657461544704-R6EIS54K377KITUA1JVN/243683130_10118693180922520_5832182182543868945_n.jpg Welcome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/68f06461-c5b8-42b1-9e9a-e934b9b988da/900-7.jpeg Welcome - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/38be4ad8-d097-41bb-ad95-5b1f8803ae4e/900-3.jpeg Welcome - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/89465d53-a79b-41d0-b87f-e6670dd68d01/900-9.jpeg Welcome - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/c3d5cc27-11bc-4218-ad05-4405827bab2e/900-8.jpeg Welcome - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/11520ff1-9c6f-4ad0-8007-882f5f7141a9/900-4.jpeg Welcome - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/18e06358-08d4-4545-a092-d38d9b47819a/900-10.jpeg Welcome - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.captivaecotours.com/new-blog-1 daily 0.75 2023-09-07 https://www.captivaecotours.com/new-blog-1/2023/9/7/helo monthly 0.5 2023-09-10 https://www.captivaecotours.com/bahamas-info daily 0.75 2023-12-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/78aebb71-824c-438e-b8e1-737fd18b7796/ForagingGreen2.jpg Bahamas Info https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5876651903596ec731ddb002/ab347789-faa4-4ed8-834b-ffa356e631c5/Bahamas-Map-1.png Bahamas Info