Spend six hours exploring remote stretches of the Ten Thousand Islands aboard comfortable 25-foot Sea Pro boats. This extended tour travels farther to secluded barrier islands, giving shelling enthusiasts more time on productive, uncrowded beaches. Knowledgeable local guides identify finds, share ecological insights, and teach responsible shelling practices to protect fragile habitats. Boats offer shade, seating, and an onboard restroom, creating a relaxed environment for discovery, stunning coastal scenery, and memorable wildlife and photo opportunities.
Six Hour Shelling Tour
Board a comfortable boat to reach isolated beaches where shelling enthusiasts can explore uncrowded shores. Expert guides provide insights into marine life and eco-friendly collecting practices. Enjoy onboard amenities, including refreshments and restrooms, while capturing scenic coastal views.
Safety Briefing Included
Experienced Crew Support
Quality Gear & Vessels
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Guests
Up to 6 guests
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$245 |
Overview
6 hoursUp to 99Maximum of 6 guests per boat for shared tours
What’s Included
- Guided tour with knowledgeable local guides who help identify shells and marine life
- Comfortable ride on 25-foot Sea Pro boats with seating, shade, and an onboard restroom
- Complimentary bottled water and tea
- Large cooler/ice for guest use
- Access to productive, secluded shelling locations in the Ten Thousand Islands
- Guides’ shelling expertise and conservation education
- Family-friendly experience suitable for a range of ages
- Photo opportunities of islands and wildlife
What to Bring
- Credit card for parking or Collier County Beach Permit
- Shelling bag or bucket (logo versions available for purchase)
- Water shoes (sandals/flip-flops not recommended)
- Hat for sun and mangrove branch protection
- Sunglasses and polarized sunglasses
- Environmentally safe lotion sunscreen (no sprays)
- Waterproof phone case
- Jacket, sweatshirt, or towel for cooler months
- Snacks
- Cash for crew gratuity (optional)
What’s Not Included
- Parking fee ($10) at Goodland Boat Park for afternoon tours (free with a Collier County Beach Permit)
- Shelling gear such as bags, buckets, or Sand Dippers (available for purchase)
- Personal footwear and clothing items
- Sunscreen and eye protection
- Optional snacks and bug spray
- Crew gratuity
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on a six-hour shelling tour?
Enjoy a six-hour adventure exploring islands and beaches in the Ten Thousand Islands with knowledgeable guides who lead you to prime shelling spots, help identify finds, and teach eco-friendly practices; boats include restroom facilities and complimentary refreshments.
What should I bring with me on the tour?
Bring water shoes, a hat, sunglasses, environmentally safe lotion sunscreen (no sprays), a shelling bag or bucket (optional purchase available), cash for gratuity and parking (afternoon tours only), snacks, a waterproof phone case, and a jacket or towel for cooler months.
What is your cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 7 days (168 hours) before the tour. Optional trip protection (15% of booking) allows cancellation up to 48 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations less than 7 days or no-shows are non-refundable.
Are there restrooms on the boat?
Yes. The 25-foot Sea Pro boats are equipped with flushable toilets; afternoon tours may also use the boat park restroom before departure.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes. Tours are family-friendly and suitable for all ages; contact the operator with questions about very young children or special accommodations.
Will I definitely find a lot of shells?
The tours visit areas known for abundant and diverse shells, but shelling is affected by tides and weather; guides maximize your chances and offer tips to spot rare specimens.
How long is the boat ride to the islands?
The boat ride to shelling destinations is typically 15–20 minutes.
Are the tours eco-friendly?
Yes. Guides teach and follow responsible shelling practices and marine conservation to minimize impact and preserve the islands.
What makes the 6-hour guided shelling tour different, and how does the guide help us find shells?
During our 6-hour guided excursion, an expert local captain and Florida Master Naturalist accompanies your small group (maximum 6 guests) directly onto remote barrier island beaches. Unlike self-guided charters, your guide walks the tide lines alongside you, actively helping you spot prized specimen shells like Lightning Whelks, Horse Conchs, and Tulips. Your guide shares deep ecological knowledge about the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, identifies marine life, and ensures you make the absolute most of your 4 to 5 hours of shore time. Your 25-foot Sea Pro bay boat—equipped with an enclosed marine restroom and freshwater washdown—remens available on standby whenever you need a break or a fresh drink.
What should we pack and wear for a full-day 6-hour guided shelling tour in Marco Island?
Proper preparation ensures a comfortable full day on uninhabited barrier islands. We strongly recommend wearing sturdy, closed-toe water shoes or neoprene booties to protect your feet from sharp shells, oyster bars, and uneven terrain (flip-flops and sandals are not permitted). Bring a wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, and lotion sunscreen (aerosol sprays are strictly prohibited on board). Pack your own mesh shelling bags, buckets, or sand scoops for collecting empty shells. While we provide a large onboard cooler stocked with ice and bottled water, you should bring your own lunch, snacks, personal beverages, a waterproof phone case, and optional bug spray. During cooler months, a lightweight jacket or towel is also recommended.
Are we allowed to collect live seashells or marine animals during the 6-hour guided tour?
No. Treasure Seekers Shell Tours strictly enforces a 100% ethical, eco-friendly shelling policy in compliance with Florida law and federal regulations within the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Guests may only collect empty seashells. Any shell containing a living organism—such as live Junonias, Lightning Whelks, or Horse Conchs—must be left undisturbed or gently returned to the water immediately. Living creatures like sand dollars, sea urchins, starfish, and horseshoe crabs are strictly protected. Your guide will teach you how to identify empty shells responsibly while preserving fragile marine habitats for future generations of beachcombers.
What happens if weather conditions or storms occur on the day of our 6-hour guided shelling tour?
Guest safety is our highest priority. Our tours operate rain or shine during mild coastal weather, but all departures depend on safe marine wind and water conditions in the Ten Thousand Islands. If your captain determines before departure that severe weather, lightning, or dangerous seas make the trip unsafe, the tour will be rescheduled or 100% refunded. Because this is an extended 6-hour excursion, your captain continuously monitors live radar on the water. If inclement weather develops while you are on the island, your captain will safely gather the group and return to Goodland Boat Park early.
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From
$21.19
Retail Items
Prepare for your shelling tour with essential add-ons available for pre-order. These items ensure you’re equipped and ready when you board the boat, enhancing your exploration of remote beaches.
Ready When You Are
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