River Lion Excursions

River Lion Excursions with Captain Marcel offers eco-tourism cruises aboard the Argo, a 26-food C-Dory Tomcat power vessel.

This classic boat features an indoor cabin for warmth and comfort, a shallow draft to allow the boat to "dock" on the beach and navigate shallow waters, and a wide beam to provide comfortable cruises. The Argo has been repowered with twin Suzuki 140-horsepower engines, allowing the vessel to move efficiently through the water.

An experienced guide and ecological naturalist, Captain Marcel has worked in Hawaii for the Pacific Whale Foundation and captained large catamarans for trips that included snorkeling, diving, and whale watching. Captain Marcel has been a kayak guide, first mate, and educational coordinator in Northeast Florida, learning about St. Johns County's animals, sea creatures, and waters.

Red Lion Excursions offers several tours for up to six people and a three-hour romantic sunset cruise for two.

The sunset cruise for up to six people lasts an hour and a half and provides a prime view of the sunset over the City of St. Augustine.

The immersive eco-tour begins early in the afternoon and lasts two hours. Bird-watchers, those who love boats, and those who appreciate the natural beauty of our rivers will all enjoy the two-hour eco-cruise, which can include a stop at a sandbar.

The tide will dictate the timing and course of the three-hour custom eco-tour. The tour encompasses a large section of the region's estuary system, from the backcountry to the coast. This trip is an immersive experience into the area's ecology.

The romantic sunset cruise for two focuses on both the waterway and the sunset, and can include a stop along the way at a riverside restaurant for a cocktail or appetizer.

The charters leave from the dock at Camachee Yacht Harbor. Custom charters are also available. Call River Lion Excursion at (904) 456-3473 to get a quote for a custom charter.

The wildlife photos are courtesy of Captain Marcel's friend, Allison Smith, while out on a River Lion Excursion.