I moved to Tampa from the Northeast almost 20 years ago, and I’ve gotten to know almost every square inch of Tampa Bay, especially in the last 5 years selling solar. There are a ton of cool towns to visit and places to see in a 100 mile radius of Tampa city, lotsa great restaurants as well.

One of my favorite Tampa Bay activities is the Spongeorama island cruise from Tarpon Springs out to Anklote Key, a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, about 5KM west of the docks.

It is especially beautiful around sunset:

The cruise only costs $30 per person, you can catch the boat at the Sponge Docks in Tarpon Springs, right behind Yianni’s restaurant.

We went to Hella’s for some light fare before the cruise… I’ve never had a bad meal at Hella’s. That’s probably why they’re always busy. If you like Greek food go there and enjoy!

I took this pic of My Favorite Ukrainian:

Life here in Florida is far removed from the chaos of Olga’s Ukraine. I’m glad we have this time together.

Olga owns an apartment in Kyiv, but she’s safer here in Florida, eating Greek food with me.

We got margaritas on the boat and enjoyed the ride out:

The boat takes you to Anklote Key, and you can get off the boat, walk around and collect shells… and just enjoy the breeze and the sky and peace of it all. They typically stop for about 40 minutes.

Only $30, for a cool experience. makes for a great date, or just an activity with the kids. You’ll see dolphins, exotic shorebirds, hawks, flying fish… all the nature and life that’s abundant here.

I’ve taken this cruise many times over the years, and I never get tired of it.

If you visit Tampa check it out!