6-Hour Ten Thousand Islands Guided Shelling Tour
Find and identify shells on remote Ten Thousand Islands shores
Duration
6 hours
Includes
Guided shelling, water, cooler
Highlights
Cruise to remote barrier islands in the Ten Thousand Islands for a guided day of shelling. Learn ethical collection and shell identification while exploring shorelines and shallow water.
- Explore remote barrier islands reached by shallow-water boat
- Search tide-shaped shorelines and shallow water for shells
- Learn shell identification and ethical collection practices
- Discover Southwest Florida ecosystem insights from Master Naturalist captains
- Capture photographs of shells and island views
Itinerary
- Arrival & Check-In – Arrive at Goodland Boat Park 30–45 mins early. Meet your Captain & check gear.
- Safety Briefing – Quick overview of boat safety, tide info, and shelling guidelines.
- Boat Ride – Cruise to a remote, productive barrier island and enjoy scenery and wildlife.
- Shelling Adventure – Disembark and explore the shoreline while captains provide tips on identifying and responsibly collecting shells.
- Photography & Relaxation – Capture memories of shells, wildlife, and island views.
- Return to Dock – Board the boat and return to Goodland Boat Park, taking care not to leave shells or trash behind.
- Debrief & Farewell – Ask any final questions and receive guidance for future shelling adventures.
What's Included
- Water
- Cooler space
- Guided shell identification
- Shallow-water boat transportation
Important details
- Arrive 30–45 minutes before departure; boats may wait about 5 minutes for late arrivals
- Requires stepping in and out of the boat, walking on uneven sand, and entering shallow water; feet may get wet ankle to knee deep
- Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times
- Disclose medical conditions before the trip
- Bring 2–3 bottles of water per person, at least one electrolyte drink, snacks, a shell bucket or bag, and sneakers or water shoes
- Return to the boat at the time assigned by the captain; delayed departures incur a $30 per-person charge not included in the listed price
- All travelers must disembark during shelling stops; no one may remain on the boat without the captain
- No smoking or aerosol sunscreen application on the vessel
- Weather and tide conditions may change destinations; the captain makes safety decisions
- Requires at least four booked participants to operate
- Parking costs $10 via the lot's QR code and is not included in the listed price
- An automatic 18% gratuity applies to parties of 6 or more and is not included in the listed price
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations within 48 hours and no-shows are charged in full. Cancellations within 14 days are charged 50%. Holiday-week cancellations within 14 days are not refunded.
Product ID: VT3ECB
FAQs
The captain makes weather decisions for safety. Tours may be canceled in advance or at the dock, and destinations may change based on weather and tides. If the captain cancels due to weather, you will not be charged.
Wear sneakers or water shoes; flip-flops are not recommended. Dress in layers if morning temperatures are below 70°F, and bring rain gear from June through October.
Bring a small soft cooler only; large coolers are not allowed.
Meeting details
Goodland Boat Park, 750 Palm Point Drive, Goodland, FL 34140
