2-hour Shelling Boat Tour in the 10,000 Islands

Nestled in the captivating waters of the 10,000 Islands, the 2-hour Shelling Boat Tour offers an enchanting adventure. Guided by a certified master naturalist, this family-friendly excursion allows guests to explore tranquil coves and untouched coastlines, all while spotting diverse wildlife like dolphins and sea turtles. With a maximum of 17 guests, the tour ensures personalized attention and expert commentary on the local marine life. But the real treasure lies in the opportunity to uncover a wealth of shells, waiting to be discovered along the pristine shores.

Good To Know

• A 2-hour guided boat tour led by a certified master naturalist to explore the untouched coastlines and wildlife of the 10,000 Islands.
• Opportunity to spot diverse marine life like sea turtles, dolphins, and pelicans, and engage in shelling activities.
• Maximum of 17 guests for a personalized and family-friendly experience with expert commentary on the local ecosystem.
• Departs from Goodland Boat Park with easy access to public transportation and recommended items like water, hats, and sunscreen.
• Highly rated tour with a 95% recommendation rate and an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 80 reviews.

Tour Overview and Experience

The 2-hour Shelling Boat Tour in the 10,000 Islands departs from Goodland and is led by a certified master naturalist.

Travelers explore untouched coastlines in the Gulf of Mexico, with a chance to spot wildlife like sea turtles, bottlenosed dolphins, pelicans, and manatees.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 17 guests, ensuring personalized attention.

It’s a family-friendly experience that includes expert commentary on the local marine life and ample opportunity for shelling along the shoreline.

Bringing water, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, water shoes, shell bags, and towels is recommended for an enjoyable outing.

Inclusions and Meeting Details

The Shelling Boat Tour includes the guided excursion and expert commentary on the marine life.

The tour departs from the Goodland Boat Park, 750 Palm Point Dr, Goodland, FL 34140, and returns to the same location.

Travelers should bring water, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, water shoes, bags for shells, and a towel.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

The meeting point is near public transportation, and the tour is operated by Marco Island Boat Tours, providing an opportunity to learn about the local ecology and wildlife during the 2-hour excursion.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

Pricing for the Shelling Boat Tour starts from $109.95 per person.

The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience begins. This provides flexibility for travelers’ plans.

Plus, a Lowest Price Guarantee is available, ensuring customers receive the best deal.

The tour is highly rated, with an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 80 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides, frequent dolphin sightings, and enjoyable shelling experiences.

Some guests expressed a desire for longer excursions and more shelling time.

Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly recommended the Shelling Boat Tour, with 80 reviews and an impressive 95% recommendation rate.

The tour boasts an average rating of 4.8 based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, with positive comments highlighting the knowledgeable guides, frequent dolphin sightings, and enjoyable shelling experiences.

Some feedback, however, mentioned a desire for longer excursions and slightly limited shelling time.

The tour offers:

• Knowledgeable guides who provide expert commentary on marine life
• Chances to spot a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, bottlenosed dolphins, pelicans, and manatees
• An intimate experience with a maximum of 17 travelers for personalized attention.

Additional Information

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

However, the location is near public transportation, making it easily accessible.

The tour is operated by Marco Island Boat Tours, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn about the local ecology and wildlife during the excursion.

For those seeking a more extensive shelling and wildlife viewing experience, an alternative 3.5-hour tour is available.

Exploring the Untouched Coastlines

Venture into the tranquil waters of the 10,000 Islands, where the untouched coastlines of the Gulf of Mexico await.

Explore hidden coves, mangrove-lined shores, and remote beaches teeming with natural beauty. Along the way, spot a diverse array of wildlife:

• Majestic sea turtles gliding through the crystal-clear waters
• Playful bottlenose dolphins dancing in the wake of the boat
• Graceful pelicans soaring overhead, searching for their next catch

This intimate shelling tour offers a chance to learn about the unspoiled ecosystem, learning from the expert naturalist guide about the delicate balance of this unique environment.

Spotting Diverse Wildlife

With luck, guests may spot a variety of fascinating marine life during the shelling tour.

Bottlenose dolphins often frolic in the calm waters, delighting onlookers with their playful antics. Manatees, the gentle "sea cows," may surface to breathe, while graceful sea turtles glide through the waves.

Overhead, pelicans soar, occasionally diving into the water to catch fish. The 10,000 Islands ecosystem provides a rich habitat for these incredible creatures.

The knowledgeable guide will share insights about the local wildlife, enhancing the tour experience. Spotting these animals in their natural environment is a highlight for many visitors.

Personalized and Family-Friendly Tour

Although the shelling tour accommodates up to 17 travelers, the small group size ensures a personalized and attentive experience.

The certified master naturalist guide is dedicated to providing thoughtful commentary and insights, tailoring the experience to the group’s interests. Families will appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere, with opportunities to:

• Spot wildlife like sea turtles, dolphins, and manatees
• Explore the untouched coastlines of the 10,000 Islands
• Collect unique shells and learn about the local marine ecology

With free cancellation and a lowest price guarantee, this personalized shelling tour is an enjoyable and accessible way to discover the natural wonders of the Gulf of Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the operator recommends packing lightweight, non-messy items that won’t interfere with the shelling experience. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

What Is the Policy for Pets on the Tour?

The tour doesn’t allow pets on board. For the safety and comfort of all passengers, only service animals are permitted. Guests are advised to leave their pets at home when booking this shelling boat tour.

Do the Boats Have Restroom Facilities?

The boats do not have restroom facilities on board. However, the tour departs and returns to the Goodland Boat Park, which has public restrooms available for use before and after the tour.

Is the Tour Available Year-Round or Only During Certain Seasons?

The 2-hour shelling boat tour is available year-round, allowing visitors to explore the 10,000 Islands’ untouched coastlines and spot wildlife regardless of the season. Operating daily, the tour runs as long as weather conditions permit safe boating.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?

Yes, for an additional fee, travelers can upgrade to a longer 3.5-hour excursion that provides more extensive shelling and wildlife viewing opportunities. This alternative tour option is available upon request.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating 2-hour shelling boat tour through the enchanting 10,000 Islands. Led by a certified master naturalist, you’ll explore tranquil waters, spot diverse wildlife, and uncover hidden treasures along the untouched coastlines. With personalized attention and expert commentary, this family-friendly excursion promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to fill your shell bags with nature’s wonders.