TEB's Observations of Captain Brian's Observations of the Water

So, you've been waiting all year for that tropical beach getaway.  Nice sandy beaches full of sunsets & shells.  But when you arrive............

Credit:  www.philjeffrey.net
Everyone else had the same idea - at the same time. Sometimes the traffic on the beaches of Sanibel can be a tad overwhelming.  There are lots of shells but also lots of people looking for those shells. 

If I only had some way to get out to all the little islands less traveled that surround Sanibel somehow.  If I only had a boat.  If I only had a friend with a boat.  If I only had a friend with a boat who was also a shell guide.

There are plenty of shell guides that will motor you to the outer islands but you better check them out first. Any ole boat captain can dump you off on a desolate beach while he reads the newspaper or catches a few zzzzz's.  To really enjoy your trip  to the fullest one needs to select a captain who is experienced on the water, knowledgeable of the local wildlife, & hopefully one with a love for what they do.

The first clue that a shell guide is passionate about what they do would be the dashboard of their truck.

Another sure fire indicator of a great shell guide would be a really cute first mate.

If there is any trouble your shell guide should be able to kick some a** with a machete in a hand-made sting ray hide sheath.

Sting ray hide dries as hard as  armor. It's an imposing weapon with the animal's eye holes left intact.

Here's the shell guide that fits the bill - meet Captain Brian Holaway of  Captain Brian's Observations on the Water.  Captain Brian has been navigating the waters of SWFL for 17 years.  He has a special place in his heart for the island of Cayo Costa.  Captain Brian even travels out to Cayo on his days off. 
  When you book a trip with Captain Brian he will customize your travels with him to include your interests.  Whether you are desiring to explore a deserted beach for shells,  shoot some wildlife photography, learn about the local ancient culture, or just enjoy being on the water and have lunch on North Captiva.   Captain Brian enjoys showing off his backyard. 

Captain Brian pointing out some landmarks to my niece on the trip we took with him & first mate Salty last week.

Looking at the low tide lagoon on Cayo Costa.  We decided to forgo paddle boarding and go shelling instead.

The remains of Tropical Storm Debby were still littered every where.

First Mate Salty found a nice spot to relax.

Captain Brian always manages to spot something unusual in the sand.  Heart Urchins aka sea potatoes which is exactly what they look like in mass quantities.  (I always bring a little Tupperware holder to keep delicate finds like these from getting crushed on the way home.)

We had an amazing trip with Captain Brian on Cayo Costa.  My niece said she felt like she was on her own private island.

Shellicious finds from Cayo Costa.

Angel Wings were everywhere.

Thanks Captain Brian & Salty. Till next time.