Several months ago we were making arrangements to take one of the offerings of Discover Sarasota Tours. Then the Coronavirus outbreak took hold and things came to a screeching halt. All tours were put on hold until further notice.

However, it now appears further notice finally has arrived.

We have learned that starting at the end of the month Discover Sarasota Tours will resume their activities. Apparently, it will begin with a limited number of its most popular tours. The 90-minute tours are held in air-conditioned trolleys.

It looks to us that DST will start with an All-Star line-up. We were encouraged to see that the City Sightseeing Tours and Circus Tours will be offered. Also the Haunted Sarasota, Tiki Trolley Trivia Tours, and Infamous Sarasota Happy Hour Tours will run on a Thursday thru Sunday basis.

Crisp and Clean

Tammy Hauser, who owns DST, told us she plans to use a special UV light sanitation method to prepare all the SRQ trolleys. In fact, they are the first company to use this state-of-the-art method. It’s designed to eliminate as much as 99.99% of germs and viruses from affected surfaces

“I’m delighted to be able to use this UV light system to keep our trolleys germ-free for our tour guests,” CEO Tammy told us. She said it’s an easy and seamless method of sanitation.

One of the DST Trolleys awaiting cleaning.

In addition to wearing masks, Tammy told us that staff and guests will have their temperatures taken as they arrive. Anyone with a fever will have their tickets refunded. They then may return at a later date. Tammy told us there will be disposable hand sanitizer packets offered at no additional charge.

Vintage Sarasota Gift Shop also will stock masks for those that need them.

To help with distancing, we’re told the first rows of seats will remain unsold. That will ensure adequate space between the guide and the riders. Once trolleys are boarded, tour guides may remove their masks so riders will better be able to hear and understand the talk.

Tour Packages

We noted that Discover Sarasota Tours also will be offering a new half-day small group option. That’s for guests who prefer to tour with family and friends. The option would allow us to explore a variety of the museums and attractions in Sarasota.

We’re really thrilled for Tammy. This is an exiting time for her, “We’ve missed our guests terribly and miss sharing with them all the wonderful things about Sarasota on our fun tours.”

The ChillMobile

As we reported earlier, during the pandemic Tammy has stayed busy. She fired up the The ChillMobile and has been touring the Sarasota area with sweet treats.

The famous ChillMobile (now with a new and improved motor)

That cute little retro ice cream truck normally had been parked at the trolley tours cottage. “It’s helped me keep our tour business alive and helped me stay sane and positive,” She also has been planning new tours to launch in 2021.”

Personally, we cannot wait to get to Sarasota and take one of these tours. The city always has been one of our favorites. As a matter of fact, we made a list of suggestions for visitors to Sarasota to see and do. I included a couple of dining suggestions as well