Business Details
10 Years
experience
Private Boat Tours & Sunset Cruises in Venice, FL
Seas the Day Charters, founded by Captain John Gerhardt, combines decades of maritime expertise with a passion for creating unforgettable waterborne experiences. Our teams deep-rooted connection to Floridas coastal ecosystems, spanning over 30 years of boating and chaplaincy work, informs our commitment to personalized service. The Manta, our custom 26ft catamaran, represents the culmination of 15 boats owned and operated, engineered for stability and comfort. We prioritize safety with US Coast Guard-certified equipment and a captain licensed for coastal operations. Our approach emphasizes educational storytelling, photography, and adaptive itinerary planning, ensuring each tour reflects local marine biodiversity and cultural history.With over 150 five-star reviews, weve established a reputation for exceeding guest expectations through meticulous attention to detail. Our operational philosophy merges environmental stewardship with hospitality, offering shaded lounging areas, onboard refreshments, and eco-conscious practices. From sunset cruises to wildlife excursions, every journey is designed to create lasting memories while maintaining the highest standards of maritime professionalism.
Services
Sunset Cruises
Dolphin Watching
Custom Boat Tours
Tiki Bar Visits
Wildlife Exploration
Photography Services
Private Charter
Eco-Tours
Birthday Celebrations
Romantic Getaways
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- We maintain a perfect 5-star rating across all platforms with over 150 reviews
- Captain John holds a US Coast Guard 50 GRT Coastal Captain license
- Our Manta catamaran features US Coast Guard-approved safety equipment
- We provide complimentary professional photography throughout your tour
- Custom itineraries accommodate last-minute booking requests
What people say
Amazing captain
Best time
Knowledgeable
Unforgettable experience
Highly recommend
Services
Sunset Cruises
Experience breathtaking Gulf Coast sunsets aboard our stable catamaran. Our 2-3 hour cruises combine scenic beauty with personalized service, featuring onboard photography and optional stops at iconic tiki bars. Captain John's expertise ensures optimal viewing locations for nature's daily spectacle.
Dolphin Watching
Explore Florida's marine ecosystem with expert-guided wildlife excursions. Our captain's intimate knowledge of local habitats guarantees dolphin sightings while respecting natural behaviors. Tours include educational commentary about coastal ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Custom Boat Tours
Design your ideal water adventure with fully customizable itineraries. Choose from island exploration, shelling expeditions, or historic site visits. Our flexible 3-8 hour tours accommodate special requests while maintaining safety and environmental responsibility.
Photography Services
Professional documentation of your maritime adventure included at no extra charge. Captain John captures high-quality images and videos throughout your tour, delivering digital files post-cruise for lasting remembrance of your coastal experience.
Eco-Tours
Educational journeys through Florida's unique ecosystems with expert environmental interpretation. Explore bird rookeries, marine habitats, and coastal geography while learning about regional conservation initiatives and ecological stewardship practices.
People
Captain John Gerhardt
Owner/Captain
US Coast Guard-licensed captain with 30+ years Florida boating experience. Former hospital chaplain turned maritime entrepreneur, combining therapeutic water experiences with expert navigation. Florida State University graduate and Sarasota resident since childhood.
Wendy Gerhardt
First Mate
Captain's partner with 37 years shared boating experience. Assists with guest services, photography, and onboard hospitality. Integral to creating welcoming atmosphere while maintaining operational safety standards during all maritime excursions.
Questions
How do I book a charter?
Visit our website to check availability or call Captain John directly at (305) 227-8246. We accommodate last-minute bookings when possible.
What should I bring?
Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred), hat, sunglasses, swimsuit, towel, and any food/drink you'd like. We provide coolers, ice, and water.
Is the boat safe?
The Manta is US Coast Guard-approved for 6 passengers with full safety equipment, including life jackets, first aid kits, and communication devices.
Can tours be customized?
Yes! Choose from standard options or create your own itinerary. Popular customizations include tiki bar routes, photography-focused tours, and special occasion celebrations.
Do you guarantee dolphin sightings?
Captain John's extensive local knowledge maximizes wildlife viewing opportunities. While we can't guarantee sightings, our success rate remains consistently high.
What happens after booking?
You'll receive confirmation details, preparation instructions, and a pre-cruise contact. Captain John personally handles all bookings and special requests.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Rebecca Herman
Dec 15, 2021
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Captain John is the best! He was friendly and very knowledgeable about the area. He has a knack for the details that make a charter experience unforgettable and enjoyable. By far the best charter I have been on. From our own Wilson souvenir, to the Pelican feather bookmarks, Papyas from his garden, photo and videos, along with countless gems of information on the history of the area, wildlife, marine life, plant and arbor life. Beautiful and comfortable boat. Cheers to Captain John, Zoey who swam with the dolphins and the Manta!
Trina Bennington
Nov 04, 2021
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The boys are still talking about this incredible trip!!! Captain John was the perfect captain and host! He ensured the trip was custom to us and made the entire experience very special!! Thank you so much for all the memories, your passion to educate and have fun!!! We had an absolute amazing time!!
Scott Wellington
Oct 17, 2021
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Wow!!! Capt John ROCKS!!! His knowledge of the waters and his boat is only surpassed by his first rate hospitality and endless energy. Looking for a fantastic time on the water? Capt John and the Manta is your first and only stop! Cruise around Siesta and Casey Keys? Check!...Stops at the local tiki bars? Check!...Sunset on the Gulf?...Check!...A memory made with Capt John will not soon be forgotten. And a special shout out to a '74 (?) VW Thing with mag wheels, roll bars, and surf boards on top for shade and style! Thank you Capt John!
Janice Burkhart
Oct 03, 2021
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My husband and I along with friends, Steve and Shari had the best time with Captain John and Zoi, his dog! His knowledge of the area plus charismatic and fun personality made our experience so fantastic!! He captured the day with pictures and video which He shared with us. I am eager to recommend Seas The Day Charters to my Pennsylvania friends who are visiting this winter.
Amy Wendling
Jul 27, 2021
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I cannot speak highly enough of our half day excursion with Captain John! He went above and beyond in every possible way. We didnt rent a car so he picked us up. The weather was stormy so he shifted our time. The red tide was present so he changed our destination. All the while entertaining us with his facts and stories, and thrilling the kids with the beautiful (and fast!) Manta. We spent a week in gorgeous Nokomis and every single one of us agreed that our boat ride with Seas The Day was hands down our favorite part of the trip. We will definitely be back and next time well do a full day
