Today we’d like to introduce you to Aldo Milanes.
Hi Aldo, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always loved the water! Growing up in south Florida, being on a boat was second nature, and it’s where I felt most at home. For years, my wife Damaris and I talked about creating something that would let others experience the same peace, joy, and wonder that come from exploring our Southwest Florida waters.
That dream became Coastal Friends Boat Tours. What started as a simple idea, to share the beauty of our local islands, beaches, and dolphins with small groups, has grown into a family-run business that celebrates connection, relaxation, and adventure. We focus on private tours because we believe experiences are better when they’re personal. Whether it’s a couple celebrating their anniversary during the sunset afterglow, or a family spending the day on a secluded sandbar, we love helping guests create memories they’ll talk about long after their vacation ends.
For us, it’s not just about the boat. It’s about the friendships formed along the way
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has shaped who we are today. Coastal Friends Boat Tours started as a shared dream between my wife, Damaris, and me, something we could build together around our love for the water, for people, and for creating memorable experiences.
Starting from scratch meant navigating plenty of obstacles such as Coast Guard regulations, insurance, permits, marketing, and the unpredictable nature of running a business on the water. But the biggest challenges were often personal, balancing family life, long hours, and the ups and downs that come with trying to turn a dream into reality.
Through it all, we leaned on each other. Damaris’s optimism and warmth balance out my focus and determination, and that partnership has been our anchor. Looking back, those early struggles are part of what make this journey so rewarding. They remind us that with faith, teamwork, and a shared purpose, even the rough waters can lead to something beautiful
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Coastal Friends Boat Tours is a family-run private charter based in Cape Coral, Florida. We specialize in personalized dolphin watching, sunset cruises, and beach-hopping adventures throughout the islands of Sanibel, North Captiva, and Cayo Costa. Our tours are private for up to six guests, offering a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where every trip feels like spending the day on the water with good friends.
What sets us apart is the personal touch. My wife Damaris and I personally host every tour, sharing local stories, island history, and favorite spots only locals know. Guests love our attention to detail, from curated playlists and signature Coastal Blue Margaritas to spontaneous dolphin encounters that often happen right beside the boat.
We’re most proud of building a brand that reflects our love for the ocean, our community, and genuine connection. Our goal is simple: to help people slow down, laugh, and create memories on the water they’ll talk about for years. When guests step aboard, they’re not just customers, they’re our Coastal Friends.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
I grew up in a humble family with many siblings. My father had a small boat, and he would sometimes take my older brother and me on overnight fishing trips. Being out there, far from the city lights, I’d look up at the night sky and feel so small, and yet deeply connected.
My father used those quiet moments to teach us about life, the value of character and the need for resilience.
When the fish weren’t biting, he’d tell us stories about his own father and childhood. I miss them so very much sometimes.
It was on one of those nights, that my brother and I saw our first manatee. We felt like anything was possible out there.
Those peaceful trips, just the three of us with no distractions, remain some of my most cherished memories.
Pricing:
- Private Dolphin Watching Tour – $425
- Private Sunset Cruise – $425
- Private Dock & Dine Adventure – $375
- Private Beach Day Getaway – $475
- Custom Tailored Experience – Pricing Varies (Visit our website for details (www.coastalfriendsllc.com))
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.coastalfriendsllc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captainaldomilanes
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1A135ohj9k/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coastal-friends-boat-tours/posts/?feedView=all
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoastalFriends
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/3B61q75Go3
- Other: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g34118-d33273552-Reviews-Coastal_Friends_Boat_Tours-Cape_Coral_Florida.html
