A little Bit About Us

Captain Tammy Everts is a USCG-licensed Captain with over 30 years of boating experience, offering thoughtfully curated, private on-the-water experiences rooted in a deep love for God's creation. Raised in Minnesota, her appreciation for nature began early—avidly fishing the Brainerd Lakes Area where her family lake place was located, agate hunting, feeding chipmunks, birding and developing a lifelong respect for the beauty and balance of the natural world.

After moving to Southwest Florida in 2012 from Luck, WI with her husband Jeff & son Finn, Captain Tammy discovered a profound connection to the coastal lifestyle here in SWFL. What began as a simple love for shelling soon became a calling. In 2018, she founded her first shelling tour company in the 10K Islands and furthered her expertise by becoming a certified Florida Master Naturalist, allowing her to provide guests with an elevated, educational, and deeply meaningful experience. Her passion and love of all things ocean is contagious and she looks forward to sharing her many fun stories of life in SWFL!

Captain Jeff brings a steady hand at the helm and a lifestyle built on strength, discipline, and intention. Fitness and health aren't just hobbies for him—they're woven into his everyday life, keeping him ready for long, full days on the water. When he's not captaining, Jeff works full-time as a Warranty Manager for a large Florida developer—but the water is never far from his heart. He steps in for Captain Tammy when she needs a well-earned day off or for special charter requests, ensuring every trip carries the same care and experience Tide & True is known for. Jeff's story starts in Glenwood City, Wisconsin, where life revolved around sports, hunting, and fishing from sunup to well past sunset—especially chasing muskie. He likes to say he had a boat before he had a car, and honestly, that tells you everything. That lifelong love for the outdoors eventually led him to earn his USCG Captain's license in 2017. He and Tammy worked side by side building their first venture, Treasure Seekers Shell Tours, creating unforgettable days on the water before selling the business in 2022. Afterward, they took time to slow things down and focus on what matters most—family—spending the next few years making memories together. Jeff also looks forward each year to heading north to the Kenai River in Alaska, where the fishing is wild and the scenery feels like another world entirely. Whether he's filling in at the helm, helping guests land a catch, or simply sharing stories from a life shaped by water and wilderness, Captain Jeff brings a grounded, easygoing presence that makes every trip feel like time well spent.

Faith is the center of the Evert's Family life & business. They love Jesus and believe in serving other with grace, integrity and intentional hospitality. Jeff & Tammy have been happily married for 19 years and volunteer together along with Finn, at Grow Church in North Naples and also for Foster Village of SWFL. Commitment to service and community extends beyond the water.

Every great Captain needs a trusted First Mate—and ours just happens to come with a big heart, a sharp eye for shells, and an unmatched love for life on the water. Finn is the son of owners Jeff & Tammy Everts. As someone who is neurodivergent, Finn experiences the world in his own incredible way—often noticing the little details others might miss, from the perfect spiral of a shell tucked in the sand to the subtle movement of an Eagle Ray beneath the surface. He has a deep passion for fishing, shelling and classic cars, and you will find his enthusiasm contagious! At Tide & True Excursions, Finn is part of the heart of what our mission truly is. To love others and show them that the water is for everyone. We are proud to create a welcoming, comfortable, compassionate experience for guests of all abilities, learning styles and needs—because some of the best days are the ones where everyone feels free to be exactly who they are.

His patience, kindness, and love for routine help create an environment that feels safe, predictable, and welcoming. Because of Finn, Tide & True is especially mindful of guests who may need extra time, gentle communication, or thoughtful accommodations. Families traveling with children or loved ones who require special attention often tell us they feel truly seen and at ease on our tours. Our goal is for everyone—of all abilities—to feel comfortable, respected, and included while experiencing the beauty of the water.