Private sunset boat tour with shelling and dolphin spotting in the Ten Thousand Islands
3 hours
Up to 24 people
Boat tour, Shelling, Dolphin tour
Cruise the Ten Thousand Islands on a private boat tour from Marco Island with time for shelling and a sunset on the water. Explore secluded islands in Southwest Florida and keep an eye out for dolphins along the way.
Duration is 3 hours. Boats hold 6 passengers; groups larger than 6 will be split between boats that ride together.
Full refund with 7 days notice. Full refund if the operator cancels prior to leaving the dock due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. No refunds for trips shortened by weather; trip is fulfilled once the vessel departs. Tardiness may shorten or cancel without refund. No-shows charged full price.
Boats hold 6 passengers. If your party is larger than 6, you will split between boats that ride together.
Yes. A 20% gratuity (or a minimum of $100 per captain) is customary on private tours. Tip more if you feel your captain did an amazing job.
San Marco Marina, 604 E Palm Ave, Goodland, FL 34140
Sand Dollar Shelling's captains consistently deliver memorable experiences that go well beyond a typical boat tour. Paul S., Jamie, and Joey each earn glowing praise for their genuine enthusiasm and deep knowledge of Naples Bay's marine life and ecosystems. They're not just driving boats—they're actively helping guests find exceptional shells, positioning the boat perfectly for dolphin encounters (including babies!), and sharing fascinating local history and wildlife facts along the way. The personal touch really shines through, with captains getting in the water to help collect shells and making guests feel genuinely cared for rather than rushed. Expect to visit multiple islands for shelling, with low tide timing playing a big role in your haul. Guests regularly mention coming home with buckets full of conchs and unique finds. Wildlife sightings are a major bonus, with dolphins appearing on most trips and occasional manatees and stingrays making appearances. The boats are spacious, clean, and shaded—important for Florida sun. The flexibility stands out too, with captains willing to adjust departure times for weather and extend trips when possible to maximize the experience.
Captain Kerrick made our Sand Dollar Shelling Tour one of the best parts of our Marco Island trip. From the moment we left the dock, he was knowledgeable, relaxed, professional, and genuinely fun to be around. The shelling was great, but the whole experience was much more than that. We saw dolphins, ospreys, beautiful scenery, and learned a lot about the area, wildlife, and waterways along the way. Captain Kerrick knows these waters inside and out, and his boating skills made the entire trip feel smooth, safe, and effortless. He has that rare balance of being down-to-earth and easygoing while still running a first-class tour. If you want a real Florida experience with incredible wildlife, great shelling, and a captain who truly cares about making the trip memorable, book with Captain Kerrick. Highly recommended.
Daniel F.
July 5, 2026
Captain Kerrick made our Sand Dollar Shelling Tour one of the best parts of our Marco Island trip. From the moment we left the dock, he was knowledgeable, relaxed, professional, and genuinely fun to be around. The shelling was great, but the whole experience was much more than that. We saw dolphins, ospreys, beautiful scenery, and learned a lot about the area, wildlife, and waterways along the way. Captain Kerrick knows these waters inside and out, and his boating skills made the entire trip feel smooth, safe, and effortless. He has that rare balance of being down-to-earth and easygoing while still running a first-class tour. If you want a real Florida experience with incredible wildlife, great shelling, and a captain who truly cares about making the trip memorable, book with Captain Kerrick. Highly recommended.
Daniel F.
July 5, 2026
Discover hidden island beaches, collect rare seashells, and watch wild dolphins on a guided small-group boat trip.
Boat to Keewaydin Island for shelling and dolphin spotting
Private 4–6 hour luxury pontoon cruise for up to 6 guests in Naples
Take the wheel through Marco Island's 10,000 Islands waterways
Discover rare shells and marine life on a private guided adventure through the Ten Thousand Islands.
Search for shells on secluded islands with a guided 3-hour boat tour