This 3.5-hour boat tour offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning Ten Thousand Islands ecosystem off the coast of Marco Island, Florida. Guided by a knowledgeable Florida Master Naturalist, guests can spot a variety of local wildlife, from playful dolphins to majestic sea turtles. The highlight, however, is the opportunity to collect unique shells and sand dollars on an untouched barrier island beach. With its informative and safe experience, this tour provides an immersive glimpse into the diverse natural wonders that make this region of southwest Florida so captivating. What secrets might this hidden paradise hold?
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Dolphin Watching Tours In Marco Island.
Key Points
- This 3.5-hour boat tour offers the opportunity to spot local wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and a variety of birds.
- The highlight of the tour is the chance to collect shells and sand dollars on an uninhabited barrier island beach.
- The tour is guided by a Florida Master Naturalist who provides expert knowledge and guidance throughout the journey.
- Guests will visit the southern tip of southwest Florida at Cape Romano during the tour.
- The tour includes a licensed captain, boat, and safety equipment to ensure a comfortable and secure experience.
Tour Overview
The 3.5-hour boat tour takes visitors through the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, guided by a Florida Master Naturalist.
During this tour, guests have the opportunity to spot a variety of local wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and an array of birds.
The highlight of the tour is the chance to collect shells and sand dollars on an uninhabited barrier island beach.
Travelers will also get to experience the southern tip of southwest Florida at Cape Romano.
The tour includes a naturalist guide, boat and safety equipment, and a licensed captain, but excludes hotel pickup and drop-off, food, drinks, tips, and the $10 county parking fee.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Marco Island.
Highlights
During the tour, guests can spot local wildlife like manatees, sea turtles, sharks, and rays.
The highlight of the experience is the opportunity to collect shells and sand dollars on an uninhabited barrier island beach.
Visitors will also see a variety of birds, including egrets, herons, ospreys, pelicans, spoonbills, and skimmers.
Plus, they may witness playful dolphins jumping and surfing behind the boat, providing a truly captivating sight.
The tour culminates with a visit to the southern tip of southwest Florida at Cape Romano, offering a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty.
Inclusions
The tour includes a naturalist guide, boat and safety equipment, and a licensed captain, as well as shell collecting bags for guests. This ensures a safe and informative experience for all participants.
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Naturalist Guide | Provides expert knowledge and guidance |
| Boat & Safety Equipment | Ensures a comfortable and secure journey |
| Licensed Captain | Ensures a safe and smooth ride |
| Shell Collecting Bags | Allows guests to collect shells and sand dollars |
These inclusions allow guests to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Ten Thousand Islands while learning about the local wildlife and ecosystems from knowledgeable professionals.
Exclusions
While the tour includes several key elements, there are also some exclusions that guests should be aware of.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, food and drinks, tips, and a $10 county parking fee aren’t covered in the tour price.
To summarize the exclusions:
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Transportation to and from the meeting location isn’t provided.
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Any food, beverages, or snacks during the tour must be purchased separately.
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Tips for the naturalist guide and boat captain aren’t included.
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Guests will need to pay a $10 county parking fee at the meeting point.
Knowing these exclusions ahead of time will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour experience.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting Point and Arrival
Guests meet at the Goodland Boat Park under the covered picnic table pavilion, where they should arrive 20 minutes early to park and use the restrooms. Boarding for the tour begins 5 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The tour operator suggests using Uber or Lyft for transportation to avoid the $10 county parking fee.
| Meeting Point | Goodland Boat Park |
|---|---|
| Arrival Time | 20 minutes early |
| Boarding Time | 5 minutes before |
| Parking | $10 county fee |
| Transportation | Uber or Lyft |
Departure and Return
The tour departs promptly at the scheduled time from the Goodland Boat Park. Passengers return to the same location approximately 3.5 hours later, completing the tour.
During the excursion, guests can expect to:
- Spot a variety of local wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and various bird species.
- Collect shells and sand dollars on an uninhabited barrier island beach.
- Experience the playful antics of dolphins jumping and surfing behind the boat.
- Visit the southern tip of southwest Florida at Cape Romano.
The experienced naturalist guide ensures an informative and engaging journey through the breathtaking Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
What to Bring
Participants should bring a few essential items to make the most of their Ten Thousand Islands dolphin and shelling tour. These include comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on the beach, and sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
It’s also a good idea to pack a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning natural scenery and wildlife sightings. Bringing a small bag or bucket for collecting shells and sand dollars is recommended, as the tour will stop at a remote barrier island beach for shell collecting.
Plus, participants may want to pack a light snack or water, although refreshments aren’t provided. By coming prepared, visitors can fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Ten Thousand Islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wondering about key details for the Ten Thousand Islands dolphin and shelling tour?
The guided boat tour lasts 3.5 hours.
Visitors often spot dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and a variety of birds.
Absolutely! Shell collecting bags are provided.
It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, and bring a hat.
The tour departs from the Goodland Boat Park, and you’ll want to arrive 20 minutes early.
With a knowledgeable naturalist guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience exploring this unique Florida ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Tour Suitable for Young Children?
The tour may be suitable for young children, as it offers opportunities to see wildlife and collect shells. However, the 3.5-hour boat ride could be challenging for some young children. Parents should consider their child’s attention span and ability to sit still for an extended period.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Yes, passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, the tour operator recommends packing light, as storage space may be limited. Alcoholic beverages are typically not permitted.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The tour company’s cancellation policy typically allows customers to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Within 24 hours, a partial refund or rescheduling may be possible, depending on the tour provider’s specific terms and conditions.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size?
There is no minimum group size, but the maximum is 20 passengers per boat. The tour operator can accommodate large groups, with multiple boats available if needed for larger party sizes.
Can We Book This Tour on the Day of the Activity?
Yes, customers can typically book this tour on the day of the activity. However, advance reservations are recommended, as the tour may sell out, especially during peak seasons.
Recap
This Marco Island boat tour offers an immersive experience to explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the Ten Thousand Islands.
Guided by a knowledgeable naturalist, participants can spot dolphins, manatees, and a variety of birds, as well as collect unique shells and sand dollars on an uninhabited barrier island beach.
The tour provides a safe and informative adventure for all.
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