HOW TO CHOOSE A FISHING CHARTER: THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE
FISHING CHARTERS ARE THE STUFF MEMORIES ARE MADE OF. USE THESE PRO TIPS TO BOOK THE RIGHT CHARTER AND ENJOY YOUR DREAM DAY ON THE WATER
By Albert Grain / FishingBooker.com
GETTING AWAY FROM everyday life and doing something special as a group – there’s really nothing like it. This could be a regular event or a one-off thing.
Either way, you'll want to find the best charter that suits you: from deciding on the type of trip, to finding a captain, picking the boat, and securing that photo album experience. There’s a lot to cover, so let’s get started!
What is a fishing charter?
To put it simply, a fishing charter is a trip run by an experienced captain or guide, often with additional crew members, on a private vessel.
The main point of these charters is to introduce guests to fishing, or to take them out to a specific fishery to target certain species.
Charters can be tailored to suit novices or more experienced anglers. No matter your skill level, the aim of your trip is to hopefully learn how to cast a line, catch some fish, and enjoy your time out on the water.
The price of your charter will differ depending on where you want to go (see below for more about this) and how much time you spend aboard the vessel. Step 1: Choose a Fishing Experience
Before you start browsing boats and contacting captains, it’s important to know what type of charter you’re looking for.
Every charter service is unique, and most specialize in a certain style of fishing. Consider the following aspects of your trip and you can narrow down your search massively.
Shared or Private
Your first choice seems pretty straightforward: Do you want the whole boat to yourself, or are you happy to share it with other anglers?
Actually, there’s a little more to it than that. Shared charters are great for people who know their way around a rod. Reel in dinner on the cheap and make new friends along the way!
The downside is that the crew has to move around helping everyone on the boat, so beginners can feel a little lost. You also don’t get much of a say in how or where you fish.
S EVERY CHARTER SERVICE IS UNIQUE, AND MOST SPECIALIZE IN A CERTAIN STYLE OF FISHING S
Private charters give you a completely tailored experience. Fish at your own pace and target the species that you want. If you don’t know much about fishing, the captain will teach you the basics and help you bring the fish aboard.
On top of all that, you get your own personal guide who can tell you about the area. They cost more than shared trips, but you get what you pay for.
FOUR TYPES OF TRIPS
So what’s the difference between the four different types of trips: inshore, nearshore, offshore, and deep-sea fishing?
Since your day will be completely different based on where you fish – especially in the ocean – knowing the nuances of each type will improve your chances of booking the fishing charter that best meets your needs.
Inshore
Inshore trips stay in sheltered waters near land, usually only a few miles from shore. The fish are smaller and the sea is calmer. It’s not just about sea fishing, either. Many inshore fishing trips take place in shallow bays, mangroves, or brackish rivers.
On an inshore trip, you’ll generally be able to start fishing very quickly, within minutes of departing the dock. Because of this, half-day trips are a common choice. These short trips offer plenty of fun, and are a great option for first-timers or young kids.
SHALF-DAY INSHORE TRIPS ARE A GREAT OPTION FOR FIRST-TIMERS OR YOUNG KIDSS
That’s not to say that pros will get bored, as many of the world’s top game fish live inshore, too.
Nearshore
As you move away from the coast, the fish start to get bigger – and tastier.
Trips that take place around local reefs and wrecks and involve some traveling are known as nearshore trips. The exact distance you’ll be traveling from shore differs depending on where you’re fishing, but your attention will be focused on targeting delicious, easy-to-catch bottom fish.
You’ll move away from shallow, protected waters into open waters, usually between two to nine miles from shore, so the sea can be a little wavy. Beginners and older kids should be fine, though.
It’s common to try out techniques such as bottom fishing around the reefs and wrecks on these trips, although this can differ depending on where you fish – and who you’re fishing with!
Offshore
Then there are the bluewaters. Offshore charters take you so far out that you completely lose sight of land.
This is serious sportfishing and usually lasts the whole day. The fish are big and mean. The water can be rough. Offshore fishing is perfect for confident anglers who are looking for a challenge.
S OFFSHORE FISHING IS WHERE YOU GO AFTER HUGE PELAGIC PREDATORS; full-day trips are commonS Offshore fishing usually takes place in waters at least nine miles from shore, reaching depths from 50 feet to a couple of hundred feet. This is where you’ll be able to go after huge pelagic predators; the kind of fish that give you a real workout. (Note: The word pelagic simply describes a fish that inhabits water not near the bottom or the shore of coasts, open oceans or lakes.)
Offshore fishing charters usually involve a lot more travel time than inshore or nearshore charters, which means full day trips are common, if not necessary.
Deep Sea
Finally, there’s deep sea fishing, also often known as big game fishing.
Many offshore fishing trips can include deep sea fishing, but the main difference between the two is the depths of the waters you’ll be casting a line in.
Deep sea fishing charters usually take you to waters at least 100 feet deep, with 300+ feet being very common. You’ll also usually be fishing on a much bigger boat, with heavier tackle.
S DEEP SEA CHARTERS ARE NOT FOR THE FAINT-HEARTEDS
As you’ll be fishing in extremely deep waters, sometimes around underwater canyons, it’s common for these types of charters to last for at least a full day. Depending on where you decide to fish, overnight trips are often the best way to make sure you get the most out of your deep sea fishing trip.
These charters aren’t for the faint-hearted – but they’re a great option if you want to potentially hook some beasts.
Food or Sport This section ties into everything we’ve covered so far.
Take a step back and ask yourself what you really want from your trip. If you’re booking a private charter, you can adjust your day to suit your priorities, but you should still be clear on what’s more important.
Is it that one trophy fish?
A full cooler?
Or are you just in it for some fun with the family?
Happy members of a large family group hold red snapper they caught on a fishing charter.
For example, if you’re set on landing a monster, your best chance is on a private charter with a deep sea specialist.
Want to make sure the little ones have fun? Pick a short inshore trip with a kid-friendly captain.
If all you’re after is something to throw in the fryer, shared reef fishing trips offer serious bang for your buck.
Step 2: Choose a Charter Service You know what you want, so now's the time to find it!
In the online age, you no longer need to stroll the boardwalk and collect flyers. You can find out a lot about a charter on its website, social media, or FishingBooker listing.
What follows are the main things you should be looking for.
The Captain
More than anything, it’s the captain that makes the trip. That’s why it makes sense to “get to know” them before you book.
Find out how long they’ve been in business. If they’re new, how long have they been fishing in the area? Are they local? An experienced guide can be the difference between a good day out and the trip of a lifetime.
A good way to learn more about a captain is through his fishing reports. These are found in a public journal about what the captain has been catching, and the kinds of charters he has been running. The reports also can tell you how often a captain is out on the water, or what species and habitats he focuses on most.
STHE CONTENT OF A CAPTAIN'S REVIEW REVEALS MUCH MORE THAN JUST HIS STAR RATING S
Lastly, look at a captain's reviews. We don’t need to tell you how important reviews are when shopping online. The actual content of a review can reveal much more than just the captain’s star rating.
Read some recent reviews and see what makes the captain special. Flexibility and good communication before and during the trip will affect your experience just as much as the number of fish you catch.
The Boat
This is the first thing that most people think about when they’re choosing a charter, and it’s definitely worth some thought.
Do you want comfort or speed? A floating home or a lean, mean fishing machine? There are a dozen types of charter boats, each with their own pros and cons. Most trips are run on center consoles and sportfishing boats.
A large sportfishing boat awaits a group of friends who have booked it (and its captain) for a few hours of fishing fun.
Center consoles are fast and cheap to run. You’re quite exposed, with little if any shade. The upside is that you can move around freely as you fight fish. They often have a basic toilet inside the console.
On the other hand, sportfishing boats have proper toilets below deck. Above, there’s plenty of space in and out of the sun. They’re also more stable, making them great for avoiding seasickness. The catch? They’re slower, more expensive, and can’t fish in shallow water.
S SPORTFISHING BOATS ARE SLOWER, MORE EXPENSIVE, AND CAN'T FISH IN SHALLOW WATERS
One thing that all boats have in common is a maximum capacity. This is normally four or six passengers, depending on the license and not the size. A boat may legally hold four, but be much better suited to two. Around 22 feet is a comfortable minimum for a family of four. Sportfishing boats should have space for six passengers.
Permits and Licenses
Always choose a charter that has all the right paperwork. That way, you know you’re in safe hands, with somebody who’s properly trained. It also means that you won’t run into trouble if the Coast Guard shows up.
This is a sample merchant mariner credential, also known as a captain's license. It's one of the things you should always ask about when you choose a fishing charter. Your captain should have one; if not, move on.
Every country has its own rules, though, and it can even vary by state.
In the United States, there are different licenses for fishing in state and federal waters. This is particularly important in the Gulf of Mexico, where federal licenses are hard to obtain. The Coast Guard is cracking down on people fishing without them, so you should make sure your charter is federally licensed if you’re going offshore.
THE PRICE
We’re going to come out and say it: Don’t book the cheapest charter you find. It’s probably cheap for a reason.
Maybe the boat’s old or the equipment’s worn. Perhaps the captain doesn’t have insurance (which isn’t mandatory in many places).
Most commonly, there are a bunch of additional charges. Because of this, you should find out what’s included before you book.
Ask about the fuel and the bait (is live bait more expensive?). Also check if the crew will clean your catch and what refreshments are provided. You can usually find this information online. Bear in mind that the price never includes gratuities.
Speaking of prices, FishingBooker offers a Best Price Guarantee, so you never pay more than the captain’s regular rates.
Step 3: Talk to the Captain
The Internet has made things a lot easier in all walks of life, and charters are no different. Even so, it often pays to ask the captain a few questions before you commit to a trip.
This is an example of a captain's profile on FishingBooker.com. Note the button you can click to contact the captain before you choose a fishing charter with him.
You might even end up building a custom package that suits you better than their “off the peg” options.
SMany charters have discounted rates for military personnel, vets, first responders and medical staffS
Here are a few things worth asking:
What fish are biting? Most fish migrate. Water conditions change week by week. Even if the fish are there, they may be closed for harvest. There’s a lot of info online, but it’s still best to ask if you’re after a certain species.
What should I bring? Do you need bug spray? Does the boat have child-size life vests? Similarly, what can’t you bring? (Spray sunscreen, marking shoes, and bananas are common ones). Don’t forget cash for the tip!
What happens to the fish? In many countries, the crew keeps some or all of the catch. On shared trips, you either keep all your fish, or it’s pooled and shared. Want to release the fish? Let the captain know ahead of time.
Do you offer discounts? Not a captain’s favorite question, but sometimes worth asking. Many charters have discounted rates for military personnel and veterans. First responders and medical staff can save money, too.
Can I start a little later? Captains can be flexible about when the trip starts, especially in low season. If you’re on a tight schedule or don’t like early mornings, mention it to your guide. They might be able to start later.
Do you have insurance? As we mentioned before, insurance isn’t mandatory in a lot of places, even within the U.S. Check if they have it and what it covers. It will give you peace of mind and help you learn about the captain.
Step 4: Book THE TRIP
You’ve chosen the trip, narrowed down your options, and talked things through with the captain. Time to choose a fishing charter and book it!
We can’t tell you how booking directly works because it’s different for every outfitter. However, we can tell you how it works on FishingBooker (www.FishingBooker.com). It’s pretty straightforward.
These are examples of various trip packages offered on a FishingBooker listing. The trip and price are common concerns for people who don't know how to choose a fishing charter.
How Do I Book?
The simplest way to lock in your trip is through the website's Instant Book feature. Just hit that lightning bolt and fill in your details. No waiting to hear back. No worrying about your dates being free. You’re set.
Like a captain but can’t find the trip you’re after? Drop him a message. He can suggest a custom package that suits you better.
When you book, you will be asked to pay a deposit to secure the trip. You usually pay the remaining balance to the captain when you meet him, either in cash or by credit card if that payment form is accepted. Some captains also let you pay the full balance online when you book; this can be useful if you don’t like carrying that much cash on you.
What About Cancellations?
Life’s unpredictable and sometimes things come up that mean you have to cancel. It’s a shame, but it’s not necessarily a problem.
Depending on the charter, you can cancel anywhere up to 24 hours before the trip and get your money back. Every captain has his own cancellation policy set and clearly visible/public before you book.
Sometimes, it’s the captain that has to cancel. This could be because of the weather or a problem with their boat. If that happens, we’ll reach out to find another date or charter that works for you or give you a full refund.
Safety is the captain’s Number One concern. Trust him if he cancels due to weather – even if it’s sunny on the beach.
Choosing a charter can be a daunting task, whether it's located near you or somewhere many states away.
This is your big day out and you want it to be perfect. Hopefully, we’ve given you the know-how to narrow your focus and decide what you want from your water adventure with the right package and the right captain. Now kick back, and enjoy an amazing fishing trip. Tight lines! T
k k k k k k NOTE: This article was originally published on the website of FishingBooker, which has given Tropics Lifestyle magazine permission to republish it here for our readers. All images are courtesy of FishingBooker.
FishingBooker is the world’s largest online service for finding and bookingfishing trips of all kinds in 108 countries, and over 2,090+ cities. Its world-class customer support (available seven days a week) ensures hassle-free, quick and fun booknig of more than 30,000 trips in some of the world's top fishing destinations. Today, over 30 percent of all professional fishing guides around the globe can be booked through FishingBooker.
S About the Author
Author Albert Grain was Fishbooker's resident fish fact nerd until he swam off into the cold seas of Britain. Last we heard, he was hosting impossible pub quizzes on the various types of Mackerel.
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All rights reserved; Tropics Lifestyle magazine / Palm Life Publishing. No part of this article or publication may be shared, reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher, nor be otherwise circulated in any form other than that in which it is published; including this condition being imposed on the purchaser of the content.
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TROPICAL HOME OFFICE FURNITURE IDEAS
Bali Hai Enchanted Isle Desk by Tommy Bahama. $2,599. Writing desk features woven raffia on all sides, leather-wrapped decorative cross stretchers on front and sides, has three drawers with raffia fronts for storage. 54.5" W x 30.25" D x 39" H
WANT AN INSTANT TROPICAL OR BEACH VIBE IN YOUR HOME OFFICE? YOU'LL GET IT BY ADDING ANY OF THESE 22 EXCEPTIONAL FURNITURE PIECES SOLD AT ALL PRICE POINTS
NOTE: Descriptions show approximate retail prices for each product. Be sure to click the seller links to view current online pricing. Some products have multiple images; to view them all click on white arrows found on left and right sides of an image.
$400
(L to R): Tobago Desk, by Sand & Stable (Wayfair.com). Mid-century inspired rattan desk. Top, side, back panels glow in natural birch veneer; 3 handwoven rattan drawer fronts. 30.51'' H x 50.94'' W x 23.5'' D
$1,099
(L to R): Traditional Double Wicker Desk W/File Drawers & Chair, WickerWarehouse.com. Drawers can be used as file cabinets on bottom right & bottom left sides. Sturdy mahogany wood frame with smaller textures of wicker woven over it. Good weight. White or Whitewashed. 56" x 21" x 30" H
$349
2-Drawer Wicker File Cabinet, WickerWarehouse.com. Framed out with Mahogany wood; different textures of wicker are wrapped & woven over frames. Heavy-duty runners on drawers. 4 wheels. Add $29 for glass top. Teawash (shown), White, Whitewash or Caramel. 18" x 20.5" x 30" H
$629
(L to R): Alexa Desk Chair,HighFashionHome.com.Mixed materials and neutral color palette. Adjustable height. 24.5" W x 25.5" D x 31" H
$300
(L to R): Portola Hills Caned Desk by Threshold (Target.com). Caned writing desk with chic Art Deco, coastal style. Wood frame w/ wood composite surface, caned doors; 2 enclosed storage cabinets and open shelf. Natural, Walnut or Black. 30 " H x 48" W x 22" D
$1,299
Emilie Coastal Beach Desk, KathyKuoHome.com. Solid wood desk with woven cane. 3 drawers, 1 door w/ 1 shelf inside. Gunmetal-finished iron legs. Natural Mango or Black Wash. 30" H x 60" W x 22" D
$1,584
(L to R): Summer Retreat Deskby Braxton Culler (Wayfair.com). 18 colors. Top: manufactured wood. Base: manufactured wood + solid wood. 3 drawers w/ roller glides. 31'' H x 48'' W x 28'' D
$2,929
St. Vincent Pedestal Desk by Tommy Bahama (Houzz.com). wood-framed bamboo veneered top sits above 3 drawers with sliding dictation shelf (use on left or right). 4 stationary shelves. 60.5" W x 30" D x 30.5 W
$1,578
Mid-Century Curved Office Desk by Homary. Tropical Art Deco look with golden accents. Open shelf and cabinet for organizing essentials. Manufactured wood and stainless steel; gold finish legs. Green, White or Black. 47.6" L x 24.4" W x 30.3" H
$912
Emiliano Geometric Bookcase by Birch Lane (Wayfair.com). Solid & manufactured wood bookcase for plants, books and office supplies. Durable natural rattan pole framing. 2 hinged doors; 4 tiers. Pecan hue. 78'' H x 48'' W x 18'' D
$2,229
(L to R): Larima Storage Chest by Twin Palms (Tommy Bahama). Tropical storage chest features bamboo-carved moldings with raffia door panels, drawer front & end panels. Behind 2 doors are 2 adjustable shelves. 38" W x 23" D x 30" H
$1,629
(L to R): Rum Runner Desk Chair by Bal Harbour (Tommy Bahama). Elegant woven rattan outside back complements rich leather seat & inside back. Aged brass casters at bottom. Chestnut Brown. 25.5" W x 27" D x 34" H in.
$2,929
(L to R):Laguna Beach File Chest by Bal Harbour (Tommy Bahama). 4 locking full extension file drawers with elegant crushed bamboo drawer fronts; rattan trim. 48.25" W x 23" D x 34.5" H
$3,249
Isle of Palms Credenza by Bal Harbour (Lexington Brands). Rattan-trimmed desk features laptop docking station: electric power supply w/ surge protector, phone, data & USB lines. 2 storage drawers w/ rattan fronts and file drawer. Drop-front keyboard drawer palm rest & shelf. 67" W x 26" D x 30" H.
$1,728
Calusa Etagere Bookcase by Braxton Culler (Wayfair.com). Fancy 5-shelf wicker/rattan bookcase adds tropi flair to any office. Color shown: Havana; 20+ colors available! 78'' H x 48'' W x 16'' D
$3,279
Bali Hai Etagere Bookcase by Tommy Bahama Home (Wayfair.com) Features 3 stationary shelves & 1 storage drawer. Leather-wrapped rattan base, rattan end panels and back, antique brass metal finials, pencil rattan drawer front. 72'' H x 20'' W x 20'' D
$3,079
Twin Palms Etagere Bookcase by Tommy Bahama Home (Wayfair.com). Each bookcase has leather-wrapped bamboo carved moldings, antique brass finished metal ferrules, 4 stationary shelves. 78'' H x 40'' W x 18'' D
$760
Credenza Desk & Chair Set by Dovecove (Wayfair.com). 2 pieces include wicker office chair, plus glass-topped wicker desk with 4 drawers (1 is hanging file drawer). White only. 31'' H x 40.5'' W x 22'' D
$1,083
Islamorada Desk & Chair Set by Seawinds Trading (AmericanRattan.com). Grey and white wood with distressed finish. Glass top. 48" W x 22" D x 30" H
$699
Shaelyn Standard Bookcase by Mistana (Wayfair.com ). 4 open shelves; 2 doors hide spacious cabinet. Black finished wood, natural rattan. 74'' H x 35''
$1,330
(L to R): Costa L-Desk with Hutch by Sauder Office Furniture (OfficeFurniture.com). Set includes L-desk and hutch; laminate construction. 3 desk drawers, 1 hanging file drawer. 7 hutch shelves (2 adjustable); 5 doors. 65.125" W x 65.125" D x 70" H
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All rights reserved; Tropics Lifestyle magazine / Palm Life Publishing. No part of this article or publication may be shared, reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher, nor be otherwise circulated in any form other than that in which it is published; including this condition being imposed on the purchaser of the content.
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33
TROPICAL GARDEN STOOLS
WE SEARCHED EVERYWHERE TO CREATE A CURATED COLLECTION OF GARDEN STOOLS FOR INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SPACES
FOR OVER 1,000 YEARS,garden stools have served as little outdoor workhorses on decks, at poolside, in gardens, or whereever an extra seat or mini table was needed.
However, in recent years this decorating staple has been re-discovered as wildly popular functional decor for home interiors as well as outdoor environs.
ORIGINS GO BACK TO CHINA According to historians, garden stools of some type can be traced back to China's Song Dynasty (960 to 1279 A.D.) There was a great interest in enjoying your personal garden area back in the day; and sititng in the mud wasn't an enticing option. That's why garden stools found favor with the the rich and poor alike as simple, space-saving seating for homes, courtyards and gardens.
The traditional barrel shape still sold today was designed by Chinese artisans living during the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644 A.D.).
At first, the primary material employed to make a garden stool was either natural stone or ceramic, as both performed well in all kinds of weather. Some say these early renditions were inspired by the garden tradition, beloved by Buddhists, whereby rocks and tree stumps were repurposed as meditative seating. Porcelain and ceramic later became the materials of choice for outdoor garden stools; while wood was commonly used to make inside versions.
As stool designs evolved over the centuries, Chinese artisans added more intriquing decorative elements, including pierced motifs, fretwork, raised designs (especially faux nailheads), and even metallic paint.
From the start, creators have enjoyed decorating stools by painting all sorts of patterns, birds, fish, flowers and greenery on them. Depending upon the effect desired, sometimes main background colors will be subtle to blend in with the painted designs.
In other instances, background shades will be in sharp contrast to the colors chosen depicting patterns, or various living things flying, swimming or growing around the stool's surface.
Delicate patterns, then and now, are still popular. One that has stood the test of time is the traditional Chinese style featuring blue ornamentation on a white stool.
"Traditional" style Chinese garden stools are barrel-shaped, have a white body, and blue designs.
PERFECT FOR EVERY ROOM
America was a bit late to the garden stool party, as designers and homeowners here didn't seem to recognize it as a furniture treasure until the middle of the 20th century. But since then, the country - and indeed the world - has embraced this little homegoods treasure.
Go to any home furnishings shop (online or IRL) and you'll find a plethora of options in materials, style, color, shape, design and size. Why? Just as the ancient Chinese discovered centuries ago, the garden stool is not only attractive, affordable and beautiful, but also highly flexible in what it can do.
You can use a garden stool as:
an extra seat for the indoor or outdoors (check the weight capacity and delicacy);
an end table to display photo frames, hold a flower vase or your cell phone, or rest your purse or a drink;
a serving table for trays of food or drink;
a coffee tablein front of your couch or chairs (use one or two stools);
a storage piece in hold towels in a bathroom, or toiletry items inside a shower stall (if the stool is waterproof);
afun design element for adding a pop of color;
a wardrobe seat inside your closet or bedroom for when you put on/off your shoes, clothes or pantyhose;
a stand for plants or seasonal decorations (inside or outside);
a nightstand in a bedroom to hold a lamp, alarm clock, phone or book; etc.
33 GARDEN STOOLS
There are literally thousands of garden stools in the marketplace. However, not all of them are ideal choices for those of us seeking coastal or tropicalpieces for our homes. What to do?
Well, we have a solution! Tropics Lifestylestaff conducted extensive research for you, dear reader, and found almost three dozen uncommonly unique garden stools we think you'll love as much as we do.
Hopefully these little beauties will inspire you to get out thereshopping for a new stool. If you find a gem, please share your success by emailing us (info@tropicslifestyle.com) a photo we can share with other readers. T
NOTE:Descriptions show approximate retail prices for each product. Be sure to click the seller links to view current online pricing. Some products have multiple images; to view them all click on arrows found on left/right of first image.
$150
(L to R): Flamingo Stool~ Bay Isle Home (Wayfair.com). Draws influence from chinoiserie art of the 17th and 18th centuries. Intricate artwork, openwork details, flamingo birds. Ceramic. 13'' W x 13'' D x 17.8" H
$150
Holmes Mosaic Stool~ Haverty Furniture. Made of iron and glass, it boasts a luminous mosaic design in a silver finish. 12" W x 18" H x 12" D
$695
Tropical Floral Stool ~Scully & Scully. Off-white crackle glazed porcelain provides the perfect canvas for a riot of blue and green leaves, peppered with flowers and berries. 12" D x 18.5" H
$190
Schaffer Stool ~ Union Rustic (Wayfair.com). Contemporary design with textured tropical styling. 17.5'' H x 12.9'' W x 12.9'' D
$117
Tropical Birds Stool~ Accent Plus (Houzz.com)Evokes island retreat with exotic birds flying overhead. Vivid colors pop off lack background; gold trim top and bottom. 13" W x 13" D x 18" H
$112
Watson Shell Stool~ Highland Dunes (Wayfair.com). Playful shell pattern; white with iridescent finish. Ceramic. 18'' H x 11.5'' W x 11.5'' D
$274
Wykoff Sea Crest Shell Stool~ Highland Dunes (Wayfair.com). Sleek silver-white stool with real coconut top and inlaid shell. Constructed of mahogany wood. 17'' H x 15'' W x 15'' D
$230
Ombre Shell Stool ~ Surya Rugs (RCWilley). Handcrafted in stunning blue bands of color, this capiz shell seat adds a "mermaid" look to any room. 13.78" W x 13.78" D x 19.69" H
$92
Hael Stool~ Safavieh (BedBathandBeyond.com). For nautical decor lovers! Striking stool features blue "painterly" brushstrokes over a white body. Ceramic. 13.5" D x 18" H
$375
(L to R): Climbing Vines Stool ~ Scully & Scully. Traditional blue & white Chinoiserie motif with elegant winding vines; timeless design. Delicately handpainted details. Handmade Chinese porcelain. 13" D x 18" H
$179
Classic Stool~ Ballard Designs.Traditional style; glazed ceramic with pierced details. Six colors: Coral, Cornflower, Bronze, Celadon, Jade, White. 19.75" H X 14.5" D
$184
(L to R): Amelee Stool~ Mercer41 (Wayfair.com). Bold stool draws the eye with its metallic-plated finish and pebble-inspired natural pattern. Ceramic. Silver or Gold. 20'' H x 13'' W x 13'' D
$189
(L to R): Malek Rattan Stool~ Bay Isle Home (Wayfair.com). Created with spirals of natural brown rattan. 17.5'' H x 16.5'' W x 16.5'' D
$466
(L to R): Ravenna Stool~ Longshore Tides (Wayfair.com). Amazing stacked piece that will attract attention with its organic vibes. Jade or Teal. Ceramic. 18'' H x 16'' W x 16'' D
$199
(L to R): Pamlico Rope Stool ~ Grandin Road. The look of real rope and stone is closely replicated. Cast from a fiberstone composite, then painted to appear realistic. Durable, lightweight. 14.5" D x 18" H
$198
(L to R): Bowen Stool ~ Mistana (Wayfair.com). Bold, textured bamboo design with pierced details. Ceramic. Gold or White. 17'' H x 13'' W x 13'' D
$179
(L to R): Cayo Coco Stool~ La Palma (Viridian Bay). Made of hand-cast aluminum, bronze and zinc verdigris finish. 18" H x 15" D
Octopus Stool ~ Iron Accents. Diverse underwater marine life (shells, kelp, octopus) make a statement! Alumium. 14.5" W x 14.5" D x 17.5" H
$100+
(L to R): Shell Stool & Seahorse Stool ~ Pier1. Although no longer available, we're sharing them due to their awesome oceanic designs.
$240
Butterfly Stool~ BurkeDecor.com. French Vanilla base color lets colorful butterflies in flight come almost alive on this stool evoking a traditional Eastern style. Handcarfted porcelain. 13" W x 13" D x 18" H
$150
(L to R): Butterfly Stool ~ Michaels.com. Butterflies, flowers and leaves float on a vintage-inspired glazed backdrop. Ceramic. 13" D x 13" W x 19" H
$123
(L to R): Forla Stool~ Safavieh (BedBathandBeyond.com). Brilliant-colored rainforest butterflies, plus toucans and parrotlets hopping between bamboo branches, create a must-have piece. Ceramic. 13" W x 13" D x 17.5" H
$196
Manhattan Stool ~ Dakota Fields (Wayfair.com). A raised dot pattern gives this beautiful seat the look of a sea urchin. Rich teal-green color. Handcrafted porcelain. 19'' H x 15'' W x 15'' D
$281
Pineapple Stool ~ Bay Isle Home (Wayfair.com). Highly detailed. Stylized shape of the tropical fruit symbolizing hospitality. 19'' H x 13'' W x 13'' D
$300+
Herringbone Stool~ Fine example of an exotic woven pattern stool handcrafted from genuine cow bone. These types of intricate seats typically are made in India. Currently unavailable.
$425
Palm Leaf Stool ~ Mecox.com. Tropical and beachy vibes galore! Colors: Green, White, Crackled Gold. Ceramic. 15" D x 15" W x 18"
$350
Zebra Stool ~ Wisteria.com. Definitely for the adventurous! Think of it as a "neutral" accenting diverse design styles, from traditional to nature-inspired to glamorous. Ceramic. 14" W x 14" D x 19" H
$350
(L to R) Capiz Shell Stool ~ Horchow.com. Handcrafted with fiberglass, wood composite, and capiz shell that is hand-cut, baked, painted then laminated. 14.5" D x 18" H
$534
Under the Sea Stool ~ Wildwood (Wayfair.com). Laura Park's playful sea painting has been transformed into a modern ceramic garden seat. Ceramic. 18'' H x 12.5'' W x 12.5'' D
$219
(L to R): Galeton Stool ~ Bay Isle Home (Wayfair.com). Classic barrel stool with giraffe and tropical flora & faunca. Porcelain. Green, white, or blue. 18'' H x 13'' W x 13'' D
$233
White Palm Leaf Stool ~ IMAX (uberbazzaar.com). Features detailed palm leaf cutout motif. Ceramic. 19.75'' H x 14.75'' D
$224
Cheetah Stool ~ A&B Home, see video below (LightingNewYork.com). Cheetah and jungle graphic play into the natural, bohemian feel. Ceramic. 17.9" H x 12" W 13" D