6-Hour Ten Thousand Islands Shelling Tour

Explore remote Ten Thousand Islands barrier islands by shallow-water boat on a guided shelling adventure. Learn ethical collection and shell identification while discovering Southwest Florida's coastal ecosystem.

• Travel by shallow-water boat to remote barrier islands
• Search tide-shaped shorelines for a variety of shells
• Learn shell identification and ethical collection practices
• Discover local wildlife and ecosystem insights from Master Naturalist captains
• Capture photos along the islands and shoreline

Know before you go

• Arrive 30–45 minutes before departure; boats may leave about 5 minutes after the scheduled time
• Requires stepping in and out of the boat, walking on uneven sand, and entering shallow water
• Expect wet feet, from ankle to knee deep at times
• Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
• All passengers must disembark during shelling stops
• Bring 2–3 bottles of water per person, an electrolyte drink, snacks, a shell bag or bucket, a hand rake, and water shoes or sneakers
• Smoking and aerosol sunscreen are not allowed on the vessel
• Medical conditions, including diabetes, heart conditions, and epilepsy, must be disclosed before departure
• Return to the boat at the captain's assigned time; delayed departures incur a $30 per-person charge not included in the listed price
• If you drive, parking costs $10 via the lot's QR code and is not included in the listed price
• Parties of 6 or more have an automatic 18% gratuity, not included in the listed price
• The captain makes weather safety decisions, and destinations may change based on conditions
• Tours require at least 4 booked people and may be canceled and refunded if that minimum is not met