VIP Tour – Tarpon Springs
Saturday, November 4, 2023 – Depart 7:00 a.m. – Return 7:00 p.m. (times are approximate)
History of Tarpon Springs, Sponge Industry and the native Greek culture
Tarpon Springs is located on central Florida’s Gulf Coast. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the Greeks settled in this area because of the booming sponge industry. They brought their vast diving experience from the Mediterranean. For 30 years, the sponge industry was the largest industry in Florida – even larger than citrus or tourism, and Tarpon Springs became known as the “Sponge Capital of the World.” The sponge industry rebounded from the sponge blight in the 1940s, and Tarpon Springs continues to supply 70% of the world’s natural sponges.
In addition to experiencing the history of the sponge industry, you will also be introduced to the Greek culture of this city. The day will begin with a one-of-a-kind narrated tour led by Tarpon Springs native, Michael John. The first stop includes a private walking tour of the Downtown Historic District, where many of the buildings and businesses are still important today. You will tour the historic Depot Museum as well as Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral and St. Michael’s Shrine.
Next, you will take a narrated walking tour of the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks where you will learn about the sponge industry and local Greek culture. Next, you will enjoy lunch at an authentic Greek restaurant and get to taste Greek wine, coffee and baked goods. You will then be treated to a ride down the Anclote River on a sponge boat where you will see a live demonstration of sponge harvesting by a diver wearing original dive gear used in the early years. If time allows, you will have an opportunity to explore on your own, or shop for a few sponges to take home.
During this tour, you can visit Greece without ever leaving Florida! This tour is limited to the first 45 participants. The cost of the tour is $145 for Edison Ford members and $165 for non-members. Join our membership program and take advantage of all of our discounts.
To make a reservation, contact Sherri Muske at smuske@edisonford.org or 239-335-3677.
Cancellation Policy – There are no refunds 14 days before the tour date unless your vacancy can be filled. Edison and Ford Winter Estates reserves the right to make changes as needed based on availability.
Cancellation Policy – There are no refunds 14 days before the tour date unless your vacancy can be filled.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates reserves the right to make changes as needed based on availability.
For reservations, contact Sherri Muske at smuske@edisonford.org or 239-335-3677.
UPCOMING TOURS:
December 8-9 2023 – Deland Christmas tour
January 13, 2024 – St. Petersburg
February 17, 2024 – Ringling Museum Sarasota
Edison Ford reserves the right to make changes prior to any of the tours listed, based on scheduling and availability of other sites.
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