Amelia River Cruises, Northeast Florida’s historic and wildlife sightseeing boat tour operator, will resume offering its popular Northeast Florida Eco/Shrimping Tour in mid-March. Led by Marine Biologist Andrea Margiotta, the two-hour cruise will depart twice a day Thursdays through Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. from Fernandina Harbor Marina in Fernandina Beach. The interactive tour focuses on the importance of protecting and sustaining the coastal environment for all of the inhabitants of Northeast Florida’s eco-system.

The Eco/Shrimping Tour explores the waters of Northeast Florida and allows passengers the chance to experience the eco-systems first-hand. Margiotta, a naturalist expert in the area’s coastal environment, uses an authentic Otter Trawl, or shrimp net, to safely capture a variety of sea life from the water. Passengers get to view close-up and learn about the catch in an aquarium onboard before it is released back into the wild.

There are also many opportunities for spotting wildlife during the cruise. Dolphins and manatees are usually very active in these waters, particularly during the mating and birthing seasons. Sea turtles visit and nest on the sandy shores annually, and an abundance of shore birds are always seen wading through the shallow waters looking for their next meal. Egrets, herons, spoonbills, ospreys can also be spotted in the air, trees or water.

Don’t miss the boat! Eco/Shrimping Tour tickets are $26, plus sales tax, for adults and $16, plus sales tax, for children ages 12 and under. Book your tickets online at www.ameliarivercruises.com.