Captain Tom is King of the Sunset Cruise

Aboard the River Skipper with Capt. Tom and Riverside Tours

BRADENTON – There's nothing like a sunset cruise. Let's face it, two of the best things about our tropical locale is the ability to watch a picture perfect sunset most every night and opportunities to get out on the water for a relaxing boat ride. When you can pair the two, it's a slice of heaven.

Captain Tom was recently gracious enough to invite me out for one of his Riverside Tours Sunset Cruises and I have to tell you that this is the best way to enjoy a sunset on the Manatee. His lovely wife Susan is steeped in local history and expertly narrates the smooth glide over the water while Tom captains the open-air pontoon and guests enjoy panoramic views that are perfect for picture taking.

A perfect sunset along the Manatee River

Tom and Susan regularly partner with some great restaurants like the Riverhouse Reef & Grill in Palmetto to offer a sunset cruise and dinner for an incredibly low price of $25. It's probably the best night-out value in the area and you're welcome to pack a cooler to enjoy a cold beer or nice glass of wine along the ride. The "River Skipper" departs from both Twin Dolphin and Regatta Point Marinas.

This 4th of July, Riverside Tours is offering an incredible all-inclusive Independence Day cruise that will allow you to avoid the crowded firework festivities and watch the show peacefully from the boat – in what are sure to be the best seats in the house, right in front of the Green Bridge. $65 includes the boat ride, beer & wine, plus they'll be having a spread of BBQ ribs, chicken, fish, side dishes and red velvet cake. There are only a few seats left, so give them a call at 941.779.3606 to book your seats or for information on other tours.

They're also a creatively different alternative when booking a company party, bachelor party or other event. Tom regularly takes such groups on riverside pub crawls, departing from any dock on the Manatee River. Trolling along the river with stops at places like the Riverhouse Reef, Mattison's and the River Roo, it's a fun night out and much cheaper than a giant limousine.

From Left: The author, 1st Mate Susan and Capt. Tom