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W A T E R DID YOU KNOW ? The Naples Pier was originally built in 1888 as a freight and passenger dock.
SAIL AWAY
have to worry about certification. You’ll be surprised at how much you can see from the surface!
By Vanessa Molina Santamaria
Experienced cave divers rave about the Black Hole, a 100-foot-diameter opening that leads to an ancient sinkhole spring. Others endeavor to fathom the mysteries of sunken ships, explore vibrant coral reefs and hang out with titan turtles and schools of multihued fish. Dive companies will set you up with transportation and gear. Many also offer classes if you aren’t certified to dive.
Southwest Florida’s largest sailing catamaran offers sightseeing excursions and sunset cruises, as well as trips to Keewaydin Island, where you can have an amazing beach day with sun, sand and shelling — and you may even spot some dolphins along the way. We sat down with Captain Susan Chaplin, co-owner and president of Sweet Liberty, to learn more about their offerings and get a local’s perspective on some hidden gems. Q: What does Sweet Liberty offer for visitors to the Naples area? A: Aside from being a long-standing Naples tradition, the Sweet Liberty has a tropical vibe with a small business feel. Our sunset cruises have been voted as the best way to see the sunset multiple times, and we have to agree. The fact that you can pack your own little picnic with food and libations is always a special treat for our customers. Q: What sets Sweet Liberty apart?
Ecotouring
Q: What inspired you to get into the boating business?
What better way to learn about the environment as you make new friends and memories than on a guided tour? Manatee Sightseeing EcoTours offers close encounters with the gentle, lumbering sea cows. You can also board Sweet Liberty, the largest and longest-running sailing catamaran in Naples, for an unforgettable shelling cruise to Keewaydin Island.
A: My business partner, Shane, was born and raised in the Florida Keys, so he had a very strong background in boating. When we got married, we had our rehearsal dinner on the Sweet Liberty in 2001. We thought that maybe someday we could buy the Sweet Liberty, and 15 years later, our dream came true! We worked so hard and struggled for many years with our young family to be able to make that happen, but the hard work and dedication has truly paid off. It’s no longer work when you truly love what you do.
The Paradise Coast Blueway is a network of routes that lead kayakers and canoers on an exciting journey through mangroves out to the Gulf. Experienced guides will point out natural treasures as you paddle your way along the tranquil waters of the Cocohatchee River.
Q: Can you share a must-do experience for visitors to Naples?
Reel Them In
A: We’re a family-run business, and our crew are like family to us, as well. I believe most of our customers recognize that feeling when they step foot on our boat. We’ve had some of the same guys with us for years, and the customers love recognizing their familiar faces.
A: My favorite beach walk is parking near the corner of 32nd and Gordon and walking down to Gordon Pass. There are rarely any people down there, so it’s your own little paradise. Our shelling cruise to Keewaydin Island in the mornings is also a favorite of mine. I love going for a nice walk on the island. One other favorite is doing a Jet Ski tour to see the dome houses near Cape Romano. Sweet Liberty is located at 880 12th Ave. S. at the Naples City Dock. For more information, call 239-793-3525 or visit www.sweetliberty.com.
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“Anglers are hooked on Naples and its array of reel excursions, from deep-sea trolling to fly-fishing in tarponrich tidal rivers and backcountry creeks.”
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Anglers are hooked on Naples and its array of reel excursions, from deep-sea trolling to flyfishing in tarpon-rich tidal rivers and backcountry creeks. Snook, flounder and jack thrive in the waters that surround the barrier islands; and you can imagine the thrill of landing a red grouper, mangrove snapper, kingfish or shark. Sheepshead and ladyfish congregate in the waters off the historic pier at Naples Municipal Beach, where you don’t need a license to drop your hook.
Vanessa Molina Santamaria
One of the best ways to truly experience what Naples has to offer is on board a boat.
