Reporter: Maddie Herron
•7/3/2026
NAPLES, Fla. (WINK)—If you hear an ice cream truck song on Collier County's waterways, chances are it's coming from Julie Pate's boat.
"I am known as the Ice Cream Lady of Keewaydin Island," Pate said.
Keewaydin Island is one of the most popular boating spots in the county. The Fourth of July brings a boat-load of fun to Southwest Florida, as well as some distractions.
"It's pretty crazy out there on the Fourth of July," Pate said. "Everybody's celebrating, everybody's wearing their red, white, and blue."
Pate's inside safety scoop? Keep an eye on the tides.
"The tide rushes out of there very quickly in the afternoon, sometimes, and boaters get beached very easily," Pate said.
That's where Capt. Todd Dillman comes in. Dillman ownsTow Boat U.S. for the Naples and Marco Island area. July 4 is one of his busiest days.
"They call us if they have any problems on the water, we come out and assist them," Dillman said. "Breakdowns, we'll tow the boat in, any jump starts, fuel drops."
Dillman says boating safety is not a suggestion—it's a priority, especially on a holiday weekend. He says the number-one cause of boating accidents is distraction.
"I think the number one cause of boating accidents is distractions, not having a proper lookout, or maybe some excessive speed," Dillman said. "Unfortunately, drinking, don't drink on the boat. Have your kids in life jackets, follow the rules, and respect each other."
Several firework displays will shoot off from barges in the Gulf, and some crews are already setting up for the big night. To stay safe out by the barges, Dillman says, listen to officials.
"I know it's cool to check everything out, but I think everybody can do it from a respectful distance," Dillman said.
"While watching the fireworks, make sure you keep a good safe distance away from the barge, 1,000 feet or whatever they're calling," Dillman said. "They'll be on channel 16, as we will too. It is for healing and distress, but they will give any safety announcements that they need."
Dillman is hoping for smooth sailing on the Fourth of July for everyone on our waterways. Pate has one final piece of advice for boaters.
"Get a boat, come to Keewaydin, and get some ice cream!" Pate said.
For more tips on boating safety from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission -click here.
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