Ten Thousand Islands Boat Shelling Tour near Marco Island
Leave crowded beaches behind to hunt for shells on secluded barrier islands
Duration
4 hrs
Ideal For
Up to 6 people
Includes
Boat ride, captain, bottled water
Highlights
Explore Southwest Florida by boat with an experienced local captain, then head ashore to search for shells independently. This relaxed shelling adventure welcomes both first-time shell hunters and experienced collectors.
- Search for rare Junonia shells alongside lightning whelks, fighting conchs, and olives
- Benefit from your captain's local knowledge of tides and promising shelling areas
- Choose a shared adventure or a private boat tour
What's Included
- Boat transportation to shelling beaches
- Complimentary bottled water
- Cooler with ice for your beverages
Important details
- Requires boarding and disembarking using steps or a ladder and walking on uneven sand, shells, and occasionally muddy terrain. Expect ankle- to knee-deep water at times.
- Children require an accompanying parent or legal guardian. Children ages 6 and under must wear a properly fitted, United States Coast Guard-approved life jacket aboard.
- Parking fees are not included in the listed price. A valid Collier County beach parking permit qualifies for free parking; otherwise, parking requires a credit card or mobile payment app, and cash is not accepted.
- For parties of 6 or more, an automatic 18% gratuity applies and is not included in the listed price. Gratuity can be settled by credit card or cash.
- A late return that delays departure incurs a $30 charge per person, separate from the listed price.
- Complete the digital waiver before your activity.
- Disembark at every shelling stop; you cannot remain aboard without the captain.
- Follow your captain's safety instructions and collect only empty shells. Leave live shells and marine animals undisturbed.
- Do not smoke or apply aerosol sunscreen aboard. Bring only a small soft cooler, not a large cooler.
- Return to the boat exactly at the time your captain assigns.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel at least 7 days (168 hours) before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 7 days and no-shows are non-refundable. If the captain cancels due to weather, you won't be charged; rescheduling will be attempted when possible. Weather decisions are based on safety, not temperature.
Product ID: GAV5SA
FAQs
The shelling tour may be cancelled if fewer than four people are booked.
No. Shell types and quantities vary with tides, weather, and seasonal conditions; rare Junonia shells are not guaranteed. Dolphins and other wildlife sightings are also not guaranteed.
Bring a shell bag or bucket, a hand rake, sneakers or water shoes, bug spray, polarized sunglasses, a towel, and snacks. Shelling supplies are not included. Bring 2–3 bottles of water per person and at least one electrolyte drink, and carry a drink while shelling. Pack rain gear from June through October and layers for chilly mornings.
Meeting details
Goodland Boat Park, 750 Palm Point Drive, Goodland, FL 34140