Spot playful dolphins and collect exotic shells on a guided mangrove cruise.
3 hours
Up to 17 people
Shell bags, bottled water, cooler
Experience a three-hour eco-adventure through the mangrove maze of the Ten Thousand Islands. Cruise with a knowledgeable captain, watch for resident dolphins, and pause on a secluded beach to hunt for prized Gulf Coast shells.
Is there a restroom on board?
There is no restroom on the vessel; facilities are available at the marina before departure.
What should we wear?
Bathing suits or comfortable outdoor clothing are ideal, along with shoes that can get wet.
Will we see dolphins?
The captain and guide actively search for resident dolphins during the cruise.
How long are we shelling?
Shelling generally lasts 30–45 minutes, adjusted for wildlife sightings and group interest.
Will we find sand dollars?
Let the crew know and they will choose sites where sand dollars are more likely.
Infants must weigh at least 17 lbs. All minors must be accompanied by an adult. Service animals only on public tours; pets allowed on private tours. Guests should be able to take 1–3 steps between boat and beach.
Full refund for cancellations made at least 48 hours before the booking. Changes are accepted up to 48 hours in advance; otherwise you are charged in full. No-shows are charged in full. A full refund is provided if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Goodland Boat Park, 750 Palm Point Dr., Goodland, FL 34140
The guides here absolutely make the experience, and it shows in every review. Whether you're out with Captain Colleen, Captain Elliot, Mike, Jessica, Dylan, or Marco, you're getting someone who genuinely loves what they do and knows the Marco Island area inside and out. People rave about how knowledgeable these captains are, sharing fascinating details about the 10,000 Islands ecosystem, marine life, and local history. But beyond the educational aspect, reviewers constantly mention how friendly, warm, and fun these guides are. They've got that rare combination of expertise and personality that turns a good boat tour into something families are calling "the highlight of our trip" and "a memory we'll treasure forever." The shelling tours to Kice Island seem to be the most popular activity, though jet ski adventures and wildlife sightseeing trips get equal love. Dolphins are practically guaranteed, with multiple groups describing pods jumping alongside their boats and swimming around them. Manatees, sea turtles, and various bird species make regular appearances too. The tours work beautifully for multi-generational families, with several reviewers specifically praising how well the captains engage both kids and adults. Repeat customers are common here, with some people making these tours an annual tradition. One enthusiastic visitor has already been three times and is planning a fourth. The booking and administrative staff also get mentioned positively, suggesting the whole operation runs smoothly from start to finish.
We had an unforgettable experience with Florida Adventures and Rentals in Marco Island! Our shelling tour was nothing short of incredible and Colleen was the perfect host—knowledgeable, welcoming and full of warmth. She made the entire adventure seamless and fun for the whole family. This is a memory we’ll treasure forever. Highly, highly recommend—and we’re already looking forward to coming back!
Rachel Faith Friedman
August 31, 2025
We had an unforgettable experience with Florida Adventures and Rentals in Marco Island! Our shelling tour was nothing short of incredible and Colleen was the perfect host—knowledgeable, welcoming and full of warmth. She made the entire adventure seamless and fun for the whole family. This is a memory we’ll treasure forever. Highly, highly recommend—and we’re already looking forward to coming back!
Rachel Faith Friedman
August 31, 2025