The waters around Marco Island and Naples’ 10,000 Islands are prime territory for dolphin watching, with daily sightings practically guaranteed. Small-group tours (max 14 people) operate year-round, letting travelers get remarkably close to these playful creatures in their natural habitat.
We’re impressed by several top-rated excursions that combine wildlife watching with local expertise. The 3-hour private tours stand out for their flexibility and personal attention, while half-day eco-tours offer bonus stops for shelling. Each comes with an experienced captain who knows exactly where to find dolphins, manatees, and native birds.
The best tours provide lunch, refreshments, and educational commentary – turning a simple boat ride into a meaningful wildlife encounter.
Check out these outstanding dolphin watching options in Naples:
Key Points
- The Marco Island Dolphin Sightseeing Tour offers a 5-star rated, intimate experience with live commentary and the opportunity to spot dolphins in the Ten Thousand Islands.
- The Dolphin and Manatee Boat Tour in the 10,000 Islands National Wildlife Refuge provides a 3-hour private adventure to see dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and pink spoonbill birds.
- The Wild Dolphin Boat Tour features a visit to the Dome House and Caxambas Pass Park, with the possibility of spotting alligators, sharks, and manatees.
- The Half Day Shelling Dolphin Eco Tour emphasizes small-group interactions and ecology insights, with opportunities to spot dolphins and engage in unique shelling experiences.
- The Private Shelling and Dolphin Excursion focuses on shell collecting and dolphin spotting, with a 5.0 rating and over 260 positive reviews.
Marco Island Dolphin Sightseeing Tour
The Marco Island Dolphin Sightseeing Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning Ten Thousand Islands and spot local wildlife.
Departing from Marco Island, this 5-star rated tour takes guests on a journey to see dolphins and shorebirds up close. Captains provide live commentary, sharing their knowledge and passion for the area’s ecosystems.
With a maximum of 14 travelers, the tours provide an intimate experience. Travelers can enjoy a provided lunch and refreshments while keeping an eye out for playful dolphin behaviors.
The tour is suitable for families, though not wheelchair accessible. Booking in advance is recommended, as the popular tours often sell out quickly.
Read our full review: Marco Island Dolphin Sightseeing Tour Review
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10,000 Islands Excursion Small-Group 3.5 Hour Dolphin & Shelling Boat Tour
Spanning the picturesque 10,000 Islands region, this 3.5-hour dolphin and shelling boat tour offers a small-group experience packed with natural wonders.
Led by a Florida Master Naturalist guide, the tour provides opportunities to spot dolphins, manatees, and diverse birdlife. Guests can also enjoy a unique hands-on shelling experience on an uninhabited barrier island.
With a maximum of 17 travelers per tour, the experience allows for personalized attention and insights into the local ecosystem. The tour includes bottled water and gratuities, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation and prioritizes safety during the excursions.
Read our full review: 10,000 Islands Excursion Small-Group 3.5 Hour Dolphin & Shelling Boat Tour Review
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Private Shelling and Dolphin Excursion
A private shelling and dolphin excursion in Southwest Florida, off the coast of Marco Island, provides an unparalleled opportunity for shell collectors to explore the region’s renowned 10,000 Islands.
The 5.0-rated tour, with 260 positive reviews, takes guests on a private adventure to remote islands, where they can search for an array of seashells.
Complementing the shelling experience are chances to spot dolphins swimming in their natural habitat.
The tour includes experienced captains, bottled water, snacks, and all necessary equipment.
Accessible to most participants, the excursion offers a family-friendly and educational way to discover the marine wonders of Southwest Florida.
Read our full review: Private Shelling and Dolphin Excursion Review
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Dolphin and Manatee Boat Tour in 10,000 Islands NWR
Travelers seeking an up-close encounter with Southwest Florida’s diverse marine life can embark on a captivating Dolphin and Manatee Boat Tour in the 10,000 Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
This 3-hour private tour, led by US Coast Guard licensed captains, offers a 5-star rated experience with a maximum of 6 travelers. Guests can spot dolphins, manatees, alligators, and even a rare crocodile while enjoying informative narration and stops on uninhabited islands.
With binoculars provided, the tour promises memorable wildlife sightings, from a mother-baby manatee pair to an endangered baby sawfish.
Praised for their expertise and storytelling, the guides ensure an engaging and educational adventure for all.
Read our full review: Dolphin and Manatee Boat Tour in 10,000 Islands NWR Review
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Half Day Shelling Dolphin Eco Tour in 10 000 Island and Marco
For those seeking a more intimate encounter with Southwest Florida’s natural wonders, the Half Day Shelling Dolphin Eco Tour in the Ten Thousand Islands and Marco area provides an immersive experience.
Operated by the highly-rated Sand Dollar Boat Tours, this small-group tour offers the chance to navigate shallow waters in search of unique shells and encounter playful dolphins up close.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides, who share insights on the local ecology, and the opportunities for swimming and enjoying the scenic landscapes.
At $137 per person, this four-hour tour is a must for nature enthusiasts looking to explore the region’s diverse marine life and fragile ecosystems.
Read our full review: Half Day Shelling Dolphin Eco Tour in 10 000 Island and Marco Review
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Wild Dolphin Boat Tour
Embarking on the Wild Dolphin Boat Tour, visitors enjoy the captivating marine life of Naples, Florida.
With a maximum of 6 travelers per tour, this intimate experience offers a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence.
Led by the knowledgeable Captain Nate, guests can spot dolphins in Marco Island and visit the famous Dome House, an abandoned property on the water.
The tour also includes a cruise through the 10,000 Islands and Caxambas Pass Park, with a cooler of ice provided for beverages.
While parking is limited, the tour’s convenient meeting point and the option to use rideshare services make it an accessible and enjoyable adventure.
Read our full review: Wild Dolphin Boat Tour Review
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Dolphin and Manatee Tour of Marco Island by Kayak or SUP
Adventurers can enjoy the captivating marine life of Marco Island by embarking on the Dolphin and Manatee Tour.
Operated by Three Brothers Boards, this guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) experience offers the chance to spot dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and pink spoonbill birds.
Led by knowledgeable guides familiar with the local wildlife and habitats, the tour is suitable for both experienced and first-time paddlers.
Priced from €62.54 per person, the tour has earned a 4.5-star rating from 64 reviews, with participants praising the guides’ expertise and enthusiasm.
While some issues with booking and cancellations have been reported, the tour remains a popular way to connect with nature in the Naples area.
Read our full review: Dolphin and Manatee Tour of Marco Island by Kayak or SUP Review
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Manatee, Dolphin and 10,000 Islands Sunset Cruise!
This captivating 3-hour sunset cruise in Southwest Florida immerses visitors in the area’s diverse Everglades ecosystem.
Departing from Naples, the tour explores the 10,000 Islands region, providing opportunities to spot wildlife like alligators, sharks, and the iconic manatee.
Guided by local experts, the small group experience ensures personalized attention and identification of unique flora and fauna.
Passengers can enjoy complimentary polarized sunglasses and camera lenses, making it easier to capture the stunning sunset views that culminate the adventure.
With wheelchair accessibility, free parking, and flexible booking options, this tour offers a truly immersive and memorable way to experience the natural wonders of Southwest Florida.
Read our full review: Manatee, Dolphin and 10,000 Islands Sunset Cruise! Review
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Sum Up
Naples, Florida offers a variety of dolphin watching tours that allow visitors to spot these fascinating marine mammals in their natural habitat. From small-group excursions to private boat tours, there’s an option to suit every preference and budget. Whether you’re interested in seeing dolphins, exploring the 10,000 Islands, or enjoying a sunset cruise, these tours provide an unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of the area.