Photo: Naples Princess
Photo: Naples Princess
Photo: Nicki Dick
Naples Princess
★4.6(979 reviews)$$Restaurant
🕑 2-2.5 hours depending on cruise type👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger children get excited spotting dolphins and boats, while older kids and teens appreciate learning about the area's ecology and luxurious estates. The themed family cruises are especially engaging for elementary-aged children.🧡 Saved by 70+ families
About
The Naples Princess offers a magical cruise experience through Naples Bay that keeps kids entertained with dolphin watching and views of stunning waterfront mansions. The yacht features climate-controlled indoor seating and open-air decks, making it comfortable for families with children of all ages while exploring Southwest Florida's beautiful coastline.
Highlights
- ✓Dolphin watching opportunities with frequent sightings of playful bottlenose dolphins
- ✓Viewing multi-million dollar waterfront mansions along Port Royal
- ✓Climate-controlled indoor seating and open-air decks for flexible viewing
- ✓Onboard narration teaching kids about local marine life and history
- ✓Themed family cruises during holidays with special activities
Pro Tips
- 1.Book the afternoon sightseeing cruise rather than sunset if traveling with young kids,earlier timing means less tired, cranky children and better lighting for dolphin spotting
- 2.Arrive 20-30 minutes early to secure seats on the upper deck where kids have the best views for wildlife watching
- 3.Bring binoculars for the kids to enhance the dolphin-watching experience and keep them engaged throughout the cruise
- 4.Pack light jackets even in summer as the air conditioning inside can be chilly and breezes on deck are cool
- 5.Ask about their themed family cruises during holidays and school breaks which often include special activities for children
Best Time to Visit
Visit during winter months (December-April) for the most comfortable weather and calmest waters. Weekday afternoon cruises tend to be less crowded than weekends, giving kids more room to move around and better views from the railings.
What to Know
Cruises typically range from $35-45 for adults with discounted pricing for children. Parking is available at the nearby marina. Light food and beverages are available for purchase onboard, though outside snacks are usually permitted.
Seasonal Notes
Winter months offer the most pleasant weather and best conditions for young children. Holiday-themed cruises are offered during Christmas season. Summer can be hot and afternoon thunderstorms may occasionally affect schedules, so morning cruises are preferable during June-September.
Nearby Eats
Tin City, located at the same waterfront complex, offers several casual family-friendly options including The Dock at Crayton Cove with outdoor seating and a kids menu. USS Nemo Restaurant nearby serves kid-approved favorites like fish and chips in a nautical-themed setting.
More Activities Near Naples
Activity
Fun Time Early Childhood Academy, Inc.
★5.0$❤️68
Fun Time Early Childhood Academy doubles as a preschool and childcare center with fantastic indoor play facilities that families can enjoy. The climate-controlled environment makes it a perfect rainy day destination in Naples, featuring multi-level play structures, slides, climbing areas, and a dedicated toddler zone that keeps little ones entertained and active.
Museum
Revs Institute, Inc.
★4.9$❤️49
The Revs Institute is a hidden gem for car-loving families, featuring over 100 meticulously curated classic and rare automobiles displayed in a stunning, gallery-style setting. Even kids who aren't car enthusiasts will be captivated by the sleek designs, vibrant colors, and fascinating stories behind these automotive masterpieces, making it an educational and visually impressive experience.
Activity
Naples Botanical Garden
★4.8$$❤️37
Naples Botanical Garden transforms 170 acres into a magical outdoor classroom where kids can explore themed gardens from around the world, chase butterflies, and get their hands dirty in specialized children's programs. The combination of winding nature trails, interactive garden spaces, and wildlife encounters makes it an adventure that keeps children engaged while parents enjoy the stunning tropical landscapes.
Park
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
★4.8Free❤️64
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park offers families a quintessential Florida beach experience with calm, shallow waters perfect for young swimmers and some of the best shelling on Florida's Gulf Coast. Unlike crowded commercial beaches, this pristine state park features protected natural areas, boardwalk trails through mangroves, and shaded picnic pavilions that make it easy to spend an entire day with kids of all ages.