6-Hour Ten Thousand Islands Guided Shelling Tour

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

1. Arrival & Check-In – Arrive at Goodland Boat Park 30–45 mins early. Meet your Captain & check gear.
2. Safety Briefing – Quick overview of boat safety, tide info, and shelling guidelines.
3. Boat Ride – Cruise to a remote, productive barrier island and enjoy scenery and wildlife.
4. Shelling Adventure – Disembark and explore the shoreline while captains provide tips on identifying and responsibly collecting shells.
5. Photography & Relaxation – Capture memories of shells, wildlife, and island views.
6. Return to Dock – Board the boat and return to Goodland Boat Park, taking care not to leave shells or trash behind.
7. 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