Our Story

Our Story

Daughter Honors Her Dad's Legacy

Families from all over the nation and world visit our beautiful area what is named "Paradise" for the beach, sunshine, waterways and wonderful activities. Some of these visitors return year after year and others lay down family roots where the second and even third generations call this special place home. When Captain Ron Kennedy began his charter fishing business in Collier County almost 40 years ago, his daughter, Deborah, knew it was only a matter of time before she would join him.

Captain Ron navigated the many waterways of Naples, Goodland and Marco Island providing expert guided fishing charters for the seasonal visitors and residents. Captain Ron and his boat were a fixture at Goodland, Florida where he sang "Margaritaville" many Sunday's at Stan's Restaurant in Goodland providing entertainment for all. Deborah and her dad shared the love for the one of a kind fishing village of Goodland, the Marco Island area, the charter fishing experience and beauty of these natural waterways. "I've watched my dad catch 300-pound grouper, tell amazing stories of his adventures, sing at Stan's and never let his prosthetic leg hold him back. He was a real character and inspiration to me," Deborah shares of her dad.

The legacy continues: Deborah and husband, Michael Passero, residents of Marco Island, are starting a new business called "Paradise Cycle Boat Cruises" as they tip their hats to Deborah's dad. This business evolved from the passion passed down from Deborah's dad, whose name on the island was well known as "Peg Leg."

Deborah served as the Healthy Living and Membership Director at Marco YMCA where she served the community with healthy living programs for over 7 years. Her husband Michael is long time restaurateur, avid boater, community supporter and together members of Family Church. Together, they will bring their desire for fun, fitness, family and hospitality for all to enjoy on their new "Paradise Cycle Boat Cruises". Marco Islands only human powered cycle boat is a unique 35' pontoon boat has 10 cycle stations that directly turns, a custom paddle wheel that moves the boat as the cyclers enjoy the outdoor experience. NO WORRIES! We have a motor on board if you just want to sit and cruise and walk around the boat. There is comfortable seating for up to 8 additional passengers and a head with fresh water wash area and coolers with ice are on board.

We will have some morning cycle fitness classes and other cruises throughout the day capturing the pristine coastlines and natural beauty and habitat along the Marco Island Waterways. We want to provide our passengers with a memorable experience in paradise and engage you in the best parties on the water.

Both Deborah and Mike have received their Master Captains licenses for operating commercial and recreational vessels and will be hands on owner operators. This was earned with hundreds of hours on the Marco Island - Goodland Waterways with Peg Leg Charters and Captain Ron Kennedy. Our time with Captain Ron and The Masters Training provide a level of knowledge, experience and professionalism for sea service and safety to all of their passengers.

Deborah and Michael have pledged to provide discounts for Military, Fire, EMS and Police department employees as well as school teachers and school staff. We will donate a percentage of our sales to the Marco YMCA to support Safety Around the Water programs to help families learn to swim. Our mission and passion are to support the community with healthy, joy-filled living providing a unique boating adventure!

What to bring on your cycle experience:
BYOB or Wine. Bluetooth music provided for a customized party atmosphere and after your trip, visit the delicious restaurants nearby.

Captain Mike and Captain Deborah

Captain Mike and Captain Deborah

Captain Bill

Captain Bill

Captain Paul

Captain Paul

Captain Nick

Captain Nick

1st Mate, Jennifer

1st Mate, Jennifer

1st Mate, Lana

1st Mate, Lana

Luke, Second Mate

Luke, Second Mate

Archie, 3rd Mate in Training

Archie, 3rd Mate in Training

Paradise Cycle Boat Cruise is approved by the SWFL Blue Zone Project as an organization site to support and promote healthy lifestyle and environment. Cycling on the Paradise Boat is "Moving Naturally" while enjoying our spectacular Eco life.