Madeira Beach, FL – Sunshine Scenic Tours, a beloved provider of pirate-themed boat tours in John’s Pass, has temporarily closed its operations following severe damage caused by Hurricane Helene. The hurricane’s impact has left the dock and gift shop significantly damaged, forcing the suspension of all tours and events until further notice.
Despite the setback, Sunshine Scenic Tours is committed to rebuilding and returning to the waters soon. To aid in the recovery efforts, the company is launching a fundraising campaign, with proceeds going toward repairing the facilities and restoring services.
Fundraising Efforts and Book Launch to Aid Recovery
One key way Sunshine Scenic Tours is raising funds is through the upcoming release of Penny the Pirate Pup, a heartwarming children’s book inspired by the real-life Penny, who lives aboard the Pirate Ship Royal Conquest. The book, written by Chris O’Neal in collaboration with Sunshine Scenic Tours businessowner Dustin O’Neal, follows Penny as she embarks on thrilling adventures, helping her pirate friends solve mysteries and discover hidden treasures in Boca Ciega Bay.
Scheduled for release in late November, just in time for the holiday season, Penny the Pirate Pup offers families a fun and imaginative way to continue the pirate adventures at home. A portion of each book sale will go directly to the rebuilding efforts for Sunshine Scenic Tours’ facilities. Customers who pre-order the book will enjoy a delightful story and contribute to restoring the iconic pirate and eco-tours that have become a staple of Madeira Beach.
Closed Until Further Notice: Updates on Reopening
As of now, Sunshine Scenic Tours will remain closed until further notice. Hurricane Helene caused extensive damage to the docks and gift shop, which was practically wiped out, along with our neighbors at the historic John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk. These repairs are necessary to ensure the safety and quality of future tours.
How You Can Help: Pre-Order Penny the Pirate Pup
Families and pirate enthusiasts alike can support Sunshine Scenic Tours by pre-ordering Penny the Pirate Pup. The book will be available for pre-order through the company’s website, with options for delivery in time for the holiday season. In addition to individual purchases, Sunshine Scenic Tours is offering an Honorary Pirate Supporter package for those who want to contribute even more to the rebuilding efforts. This package includes a copy of Penny the Pirate Pup, a children’s ticket aboard
the Pirate Ship Royal Conquest (valid for future use), and special recognition in the next
installment of the book series.
Looking to the Future: Fall Pirate Adventures and Eco-Education Programs
While the tours are on hold, Sunshine Scenic Tours remains dedicated to its mission of education and conservation. Our Dive Into Boca Ciega Bay! Eco-educational series, which offers engaging marine life lessons to school-aged children, will continue online. These interactive episodes help kids learn about local wildlife, such as dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles, while fostering an appreciation for environmental conservation.
We have begun offering sponsorship opportunities to ensure that the eco-educational series continues to benefit school-aged children and the environmentally curious for years to come.
For more information on how you can support eco-education and the continued production of the series, visit www.boattoursjohnspass.com.
Sunshine Scenic Tours hopes to resume its eco-tours and pirate-themed adventures as soon as possible, continuing its tradition of providing family-friendly excursions in the scenic waters of John’s Pass.
About Sunshine Scenic Tours
Sunshine Scenic Tours offers engaging, family-friendly boat tours in the picturesque waters of John’s Pass, Florida. Specializing in pirate-themed adventures aboard the Pirate Ship Royal Conquest, the company also provides eco-educational tours that educate guests about local marine life and environmental conservation. Although Sunshine Scenic Tours is temporarily closed due to hurricane damage, the team remains dedicated to reopening and continuing their fun, education, and adventure tradition.
For more information on fundraising efforts, pre-ordering Penny the Pirate Pup, or staying updated on our reopening plans, visit www.boattoursjohnspass.com.
For those eager to support the restoration of Sunshine Scenic Tours or to learn more about upcoming events, contact us at (727) 123-4567 or via email at info@sunshinescenictours.com.
