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Caloosahatchee Oxbow, Riverlore cruises return

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Take the Caloosahatchee Oxbow and Riverlore Cruise on Sunday, Dec. 14, and learn about the historic Caloosahatchee.

This guided monthly cruise explores the meanders of the historic upriver Caloosahatchee. Cruisers follow the river back to a time when a waterfall served as the headwaters of the Caloosahatchee and settlers braved living amongst the wilderness.

The nearly two-and-a-half-hour adventure begins by locking through the W.P. Franklin Lock in Olga. Heading east toward Alva, enter the historic bends of the river and revisit the activities of the pioneers who traveled the same river to find paradise. Stories of the settlements and their adventures are blended with an understanding of the river’s oxbows, the wild creatures that call it home and the challenges the river faces.

The tour is guided by Rae Ann Wessel, a river researcher, long-time river advocate, historian and SCCF (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation) Natural Resource Policy Director.

The traveling vessel is the stable and spacious 47-passenger Manatee Rover pontoon boat that features daily Manatee tours. All seats have a great view for photographs and bird watching.

Cruises depart at 1 p.m. from the W.P. Franklin Lock & Dam off SR 80 in Olga.

Cruise dates (all Sundays) are: Dec. 14, Jan. 25, Feb. 8, March 8, Earth Day April 19, and Mothers Day, May 10.

Cruises depart at 1 p.m. and return by 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $40 per person, with advance reservations required. Call 472-2329.