Snorkel and shell at Shell Key Preserve on a small-group cruise
2 hours
Up to 6 people
Snorkel gear, Floating noodles
Head to Shell Key Preserve to snorkel, look for dolphins, and spend time on the water with the boat staying with you the entire tour. Take breaks on a shaded boat while the crew stands watch.
Check in 30 minutes before departure or you may forfeit your charter fee. Groups of 7 or more (on multiple boats) are charged an 18% gratuity.
48-hour cancellation policy. If you cancel less than 48 hours prior to departure, you risk forfeiting your entire charter fee. No-shows automatically forfeit the charter fee. Full refunds if Island Ferry cancels the trip for inclement weather.
Check in at least 30 minutes before departure. If you do not check in 30 minutes prior, you may forfeit your charter fee.
The boat carries a maximum of 6 passengers total, regardless of age or weight.
Yes. All children, regardless of age or weight, must be fully ticketed and count as a full-fare passenger.
All boat tours depart from the new Tierra Verde Marina Resort, located in Tierra Verde, just 3 minutes from St Pete Beach.
We had the BEST time on this snorkel cruise! Captain Dave shared all kinds of fun facts about the houses and geography of the area and guided us safely around. Samantha was super personable and we were excited to have her share her passion about the ecosystem and creatures that we found. The snorkel gear and experience was great. We didn’t see many fish that day, but found super cool shells, sand dollars, a starfish, a sea snail, crabs, a manatee…. Then on the way back we were able to observe a mother and baby dolphin. They hung around for quite awhile, and Samantha got some amazing videos she later shared with us (we were too busy oooing and ahhhing to get our cameras out.). Had some ice cold drinks, chilled on the boat and in the water, explored, hands down 10/10 experience. Can’t wait to go back and do it again!
Candi Marsh
July 4, 2026
We had the BEST time on this snorkel cruise! Captain Dave shared all kinds of fun facts about the houses and geography of the area and guided us safely around. Samantha was super personable and we were excited to have her share her passion about the ecosystem and creatures that we found. The snorkel gear and experience was great. We didn’t see many fish that day, but found super cool shells, sand dollars, a starfish, a sea snail, crabs, a manatee…. Then on the way back we were able to observe a mother and baby dolphin. They hung around for quite awhile, and Samantha got some amazing videos she later shared with us (we were too busy oooing and ahhhing to get our cameras out.). Had some ice cold drinks, chilled on the boat and in the water, explored, hands down 10/10 experience. Can’t wait to go back and do it again!
Candi Marsh
July 4, 2026

Enjoy a spacious 24’ deck boat with watersports allowed and seating for up to 12
Island-hop, visit sandbars, or fish the flats from a capable center-console boat
Cruise the Gulf Coast on a 22' premium center console with 4, 6, or 8-hour options
Semi-private 2-hour sunset cruise through Tierra Verde canals
Snorkel Shell Key’s shallows while looking for dolphins and marine life
Snorkel and shell at Shell Key while looking for dolphins from a shaded boat
Rent a Yamaha WaveRunner and explore the waters near St. Pete Beach
Rent a 24' deckboat for 6 hours with room for 10 and watersports allowed
Cruise the islands with shade, coolers, and watersports