Pine Island Sounds: Music, Community, and Conservation on the Water

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF), in partnership with Captiva Cruises, continues to make waves with its beloved Pine Island Sounds concert series — a truly unique musical experience that celebrates local conservation, community, and the natural beauty of Southwest Florida’s barrier islands.

Each Pine Island Sounds event is more than a concert — it’s a sunset journey across Pine Island Sound aboard the Lady Chadwick, where guests enjoy live performances, sea breezes, and breathtaking island views, all while supporting SCCF’s vital Marine Laboratory and coastal research programs.

From the First Voyage to a Community Tradition

When the first Pine Island Sounds concert set sail, the inaugural lineup featured fan-favorite string band Uproot Hootenanny — a high-energy ensemble known for bluegrass rhythms, Irish folk flair, and a crowd-pleasing style that had every guest leaving with a smile. That maiden voyage quickly sold out, confirming what many islanders already knew: this was the perfect combination of music, mission, and magic on the water.

Since then, the concert series has become an annual highlight of island life, featuring an evolving lineup of talented artists who share a connection to the Gulf Coast and to the spirit of Sanibel and Captiva. Over the years, guests have enjoyed everything from acoustic blues and folk-rock to upbeat Americana and island-inspired sounds — all performed as the sun sets over Pine Island Sound.

Past Artists and Musical Memories

Past performers have included an impressive mix of local favorites and touring musicians, from bluegrass pickers and folk storytellers to blues duos and Americana bands. Each artist brings a distinctive energy to the Lady Chadwick stage — whether it’s hand-clapping, string-plucking rhythms, soulful vocals, or laid-back coastal jams that perfectly match the island sunset backdrop.

These concerts have drawn visitors and residents alike to the water, uniting the community around a shared appreciation for live music and local conservation. For many, Pine Island Sounds has become the “can’t-miss” event that defines the season.

This Season’s 2025–2026 Lineup

The coming season promises another unforgettable mix of performers, each offering a unique sound and story that complements SCCF’s mission to protect and celebrate our coastal environment.

  • November 16, 2025 – Singer-Songwriter Night: An evening of heartfelt lyrics and acoustic melodies inspired by nature and coastal living.

  • December 14, 2025 – Classic Americana & Folk: Blending traditional roots music with a modern island twist.

  • January 25, 2026 – Bluegrass Meets Groove: A fusion of folk, funk, and rhythm that keeps guests moving as the sun dips below the horizon.

  • February 22, 2026 – Soulful Strings & Stories: A finale featuring a nationally touring artist known for raw emotion and genre-bending creativity.

Each intimate concert is limited to roughly 100 passengers, ensuring that everyone aboard experiences the evening up close and personal.

A Celebration of Conservation and Community

Proceeds from Pine Island Sounds directly benefit the SCCF Marine Laboratory, supporting research on water quality, seagrass restoration, and marine wildlife health across Sanibel, Captiva, and Pine Island Sound. The series perfectly captures what makes the island community special — the ability to blend entertainment with environmental impact.

As the sun sets over the water, the laughter of friends, the rhythm of the music, and the purpose behind it all remind everyone aboard why these islands matter. It’s an event that brings art and science together — for the good of our coast, our wildlife, and our way of life.

Event Details and How to Attend

  • Where: Departs from McCarthy’s Marina, Captiva Island

  • When: Cruises typically board at 4 p.m. and return at sunset

  • Tickets: Limited seating; advance purchase is strongly recommended

  • Includes: Light snacks and one complimentary beverage, with additional refreshments available on board

The Island Experience You’ll Never Forget

For locals and visitors alike, Pine Island Sounds is more than just a concert — it’s a reflection of island culture at its best: live music, good company, and a shared commitment to protecting the waters that define our community.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a seasonal visitor, or planning your first trip to the islands, this floating concert series is one of the most authentic ways to experience Sanibel and Captiva’s coastal spirit.