Self Guided Four Hour Shelling Tour

Explore secluded shelling flats on a self-guided tour with access to remote beaches. An experienced captain remains nearby, guiding you to productive spots while you collect shells and enjoy wildlife sightings. Complimentary refreshments are available during the smooth boat ride, which also includes eco-conscious conservation insights.

Safety Briefing Included

Experienced Crew Support

Quality Gear & Vessels

Guests
Up to 6 guests
$140

Overview

4 hours3 – 99Shared tours limited to a maximum of 6 guests per boat

Spend four hours exploring the secluded shelling flats of the Ten Thousand Islands at your own pace. Your experienced captain stays nearby on the water, steering you to productive shelling locations while allowing uninterrupted beachcombing and discovery. Enjoy a smooth Sea Pro boat ride from Goodland with complimentary water and tea, restroom access upon request, and opportunities for stunning photos and wildlife sightings. The tour emphasizes eco-friendly practices and local insights to make your coastal adventure both rewarding and memorable.

What’s Included

  • Self-guided tour led by knowledgeable local captains who provide area insights and help identify shells
  • Comfortable ride on well-maintained Sea Pro boats with restroom available upon request
  • Complimentary bottled water and tea
  • Large cooler with ice for convenience
  • Access to prime, secluded shelling locations in the Ten Thousand Islands
  • Conservation education and eco-friendly shelling practices
  • Family-friendly experience suitable for all ages
  • Photo opportunities of island scenery and wildlife

What to Bring

  • Credit card to pay parking fee unless you have a Collier County Beach Permit
  • Shelling bag or bucket (logo versions available for purchase)
  • Water shoes (sandals and flip-flops not recommended)
  • Hat for sun and mangrove branch protection
  • Sunglasses and polarized sunglasses
  • Environmentally safe sunscreen (lotion only, no sprays)
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Jacket, sweatshirt, or towel for cooler months
  • Snacks
  • Cash for optional crew gratuity

What’s Not Included

  • Parking fee at Goodland Boat Park ($10 for afternoon tours; free with Collier County Beach Permit)
  • Shelling gear such as bags, buckets, or Sand Dipper (available for purchase)
  • Footwear and specific clothing items
  • Sun and eye protection items (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen sprays not provided)
  • Optional snacks and waterproof phone cases
  • Crew gratuity

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect on a four-hour shelling tour? +

Enjoy a four-hour adventure exploring islands and waterways of Southwest Florida. The captain leads you to productive shelling spots, provides insights about marine life, and helps identify shells while you explore the beaches at your own pace. The tour includes a comfortable boat ride and complimentary refreshments.

What should I bring with me on the tour? +

Bring water shoes (sandals or flip-flops not recommended), a hat, sunglasses, environmentally safe sunscreen (no sprays), a shelling bag or bucket (available for purchase), cash for parking or gratuity, snacks, a waterproof phone case, and a jacket or towel for cooler months. Water and tea are provided on board.

What is your cancellation policy? +

Full refund if canceled at least 7 days (168 hours) before the tour. Optional trip protection costs 15% of the booking and allows cancellation up to 48 hours before the tour for a refund. Cancellations less than 7 days in the standard policy are non-refundable.

Are there restrooms on the boat? +

Most of the fleet consists of 25-foot Sea Pro boats with a private, flushable toilet onboard. Some self-guided or specialized vessels may not have an onboard restroom; use park facilities prior to departure if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children? +

Yes. The tours are family-friendly and suitable for all ages, offering hands-on learning about shells and marine life. Contact us with questions about very young children or special accommodations.

How long is the boat ride to the islands? +

The ride to shelling destinations is typically 15–20 minutes.

Will I definitely find a lot of shells? +

We visit areas known for abundant shells, but finds depend on natural factors like tides and weather. Captains share tips to maximize your chances of discovering rare and beautiful specimens.

Are the tours eco-friendly? +

Yes. We follow responsible shelling practices, educate guests on marine conservation, and aim to leave the islands pristine for future visitors.

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