Private Dolphin & Shelling Tour in the 10,000 Islands
Explore mangrove waterways with a Florida Master Naturalist on your own private boat
Duration
2 hrs
Ideal For
Up to 6 people
Includes
Private boat, Guide, Bottled water
Highlights
Set out into Southwest Florida's Ten Thousand Islands on a private boat tour led by a Florida Master Naturalist captain. Cruise mangrove-lined estuaries with a guide who prioritizes natural wildlife behavior and conservation, combining coastal exploration with time to unwind.
- Look for dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat
- Learn about mangroves, birdlife, and local ecology from your guide
- Search for sand dollars and other coastal treasures
- Explore routes tailored to the tides for shelling and wildlife viewing
Itinerary
- Arrival & Check-In: Meet your Master Naturalist at Goodland Boat Park.
- The 10,000 Islands Crossing: A scenic 15–20 minute cruise through protected estuaries.
- Shelling & Exploration: Step off onto remote sandbars to beachcomb for rare, empty shells.
- The Return Journey: Enjoy a relaxing ride back; afternoon tours often feature Gulf sunsets.
What's Included
- Bottled water on ice
- Ice in a large cooler
- Dry storage
- Bags for seashells
Important details
- Requires boarding and disembarking by ladder unassisted and walking up to about one mile over uneven sand, around tree stumps, and potentially through mud. Expect ankle- to knee-deep water at times.
- If you are pregnant, consult your physician before booking.
- Parking costs $10, payable separately by credit card or mobile payment; cash is not accepted. Parking is free with a valid Collier County Beach Parking Permit. This fee is not included in the listed price.
- For parties of 6, an automatic 18% gratuity applies and is not included in the listed price. Gratuity can be settled by credit card or cash.
- If your party returns late from shelling and delays departure, a separate $30 per-person late-return charge applies and is not included in the listed price.
- Sign the digital waiver before your activity.
- Disembark at every shelling stop; you cannot remain aboard without the captain. Return to the boat at the exact time your captain assigns.
- Do not smoke or apply aerosol sunscreen aboard. Bring only a small soft cooler if you choose to bring one; large coolers are not allowed.
- Boats depart promptly and may leave without you if you arrive late.
This booking is for the whole experience, which fits up to 6 guests.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel at least 7 days (168 hours) before departure for a full refund. Cancellations less than 7 days before departure and no-shows are non-refundable. If the captain cancels for weather, you won't be charged; rescheduling will be attempted when possible. Weather decisions are based on safety, not temperature.
Product ID: XCSU2Y
FAQs
A gratuity of 18–20% is suggested and is not included in the listed price. You can leave it by credit card or in cash.
Overflow parking is available along the shrubs on your left immediately outside the gate. Avoid spaces marked “Trailered Vehicles Only.” Consider a rideshare for afternoon tours, when parking is limited.
Bring 2–3 bottles of water per person, at least one electrolyte drink, snacks, sunscreen lotion, bug spray, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. Wear sneakers or water shoes for shelling; flip-flops are not recommended. Carry a drink while exploring ashore. Bring rain gear from June through October and dress in layers on cool mornings.
Meeting details
Goodland Boat Park, 750 Palm Point Dr., Goodland, FL 34140