King Fisher Fleet

Imagine embarking on an unforgettable sea voyage from the heart of the picturesque city of Punta Gorda. King Fisher Fleet is a legendary family-owned company that has been introducing guests to the USA and the beauties of Charlotte Harbor and the Peace River for over 40 years. Located in the famous Fishermen’s Village complex, this attraction has become a true symbol of quality recreation on the water.

The company's fleet consists of modern vessels designed specifically for comfortable cruises. Here you can find the spacious motor ships Helen M and Charlotte Lady, as well as the newest catamaran Miss Elissa, launched in 2023. For those who prefer privacy, there is the compact Harbor Cat, perfect for private tours and small groups of up to six people.

What makes this place special is its atmosphere of continuity. Now run by the third generation of the Allen family, the business is renowned for its hospitality and attention to detail. All boats are Coast Guard certified, ensuring complete safety during your Florida coastal adventure.

To check cruise schedules, book private tours, or get more information about boat trips, you can use the official communication channels. It is recommended to contact the organizers in advance, especially if your trip is planned for weekends or holidays.

Below are the current contact details for the company to help you plan your visit:

The main reason to visit King Fisher Fleet is the variety of water routes. You can choose a sightseeing cruise of Charlotte Harbor, during which captains share interesting facts about the region's nature and history. Sunset cruises are particularly popular: watching the sun dip into the bay, painting the sky in incredible colors, will be one of the highlights of your trip.

Wildlife lovers should keep their cameras ready, as dolphin sightings are very common during excursions. Passengers note that watching these graceful creatures in their natural habitat brings great joy to both children and adults. For those looking for a deeper dive into local history, themed trips featuring stories of Port Charlotte's past are available.

All vessels are equipped for maximum comfort, featuring comfortable seating, restrooms, and plenty of space to move around and find the best photo angles. After the cruise, you will find yourself in the heart of Fishermen’s Village, where you can continue your day by browsing the shops or enjoying a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Finding King Fisher Fleet is quite simple: the company is based in the popular Fishermen’s Village complex at 1200 W Retta Esplanade. If you are traveling by car, look for the exits off I-75 or US-41. There is ample parking available at the shopping center where you can leave your car during the excursion.

For travelers arriving by plane, the nearest hub is Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), which is just a 15–20 minute taxi or rental car ride away. If you are staying in nearby cities like Fort Myers or Sarasota, the drive to the pier is also convenient and won't take much time.

Travelers who prefer public transportation can use Charlotte County bus routes, although it's worth noting that a short walk may be required from the nearest stops to the waterfront itself. Additionally, thanks to its prime location in the marina, the site is easily accessible for those arriving in the city by water.

The history of this enterprise began over 40 years ago when Captain Bob Allen and his wife Helen founded a small fishing guide service. Over the decades, the modest family business in Punta Gorda has grown into a powerful excursion fleet, now served by a professional team of 20 people. Notably, King Fisher Fleet remains a third-generation family business: after Bob, management passed to his son Ralph, and now the founder's granddaughter, Elissa, is responsible for operations.

The fleet's vessels deserve special attention, as each was designed and built specifically for local waters at the Scarano Shipbuilding yard in New York State. The journey of the new boats to their home port was a true adventure: they were delivered by water via the Hudson River, the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, and the Okeechobee Waterway. Modern vessels like the Miss Elissa (launched in 2023) or the Helen M are equipped with eco-friendly engines and meet strict US Coast Guard safety standards.

Over the years, the company has become an integral part of the local community and has received numerous awards. Captain Ralph Allen, an active participant in marine conservation programs, was inducted into the Tourism Hall of Fame, and the business itself has repeatedly been voted "Best Charter Service" in reader polls. The fleet not only entertains tourists but also supports charitable organizations, highlighting its connection to the region.

The length of your visit will depend on the type of excursion you choose. Most standard cruises through Charlotte Harbor and the Peace River last between 1.5 and 2.5 hours. This is plenty of time to enjoy the views, spot dolphins, and listen to the captain's fascinating stories.

If you want to get the most out of your experience, we recommend setting aside 3–4 hours for the trip. This will allow you to not only take a boat cruise but also take a leisurely stroll through the Fishermen’s Village shopping complex, browse souvenir shops, or have lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants overlooking the marina.

The excursion fleet is open to guests daily. You can stop by the office or book a tour any day of the week, following this schedule:

Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM.

Please note that departure times for specific cruises (especially sunset or themed tours) may vary depending on the season and weather conditions. It is recommended to check the current schedule directly on the company's official website before your visit.

A boat trip can easily be combined with a visit to other interesting sites. The location in the heart of the tourist hub allows guests to switch from the sound of the surf to cozy historic streets or shady parks in just a few minutes.

Exploring the surrounding area will help you better experience the atmosphere of old Florida and get to know its rich heritage. Below is a list of attractions within walking distance of the pier: