10,000 Islands Excursion Small-Group 3.5 hour Dolphin & Shelling Boat Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our best value tour. Imagine shelling on islands that are NOT picked over daily by 100's of people. With your naturalist guide, learn not only about individual shell animals, but learn "how to" shell from our Shelling Guru. This is an excellent "hands-on" experience for the young and old alike. Your naturalist guide will facilitate parents and grandparents wanting to be the educators.
This is not a typical preprogrammed tour. Every day and every tour can be different, so be sure to discuss with your guide the possibilities. This tour is approximately 3.5 hours in duration and departs twice daily at 8:30 and 1:30. Advanced reservations are required. Don't forget your cameras!
Note: June through October, we suggest the morning experiences due to the weather.
Available options
10,000 Islands Excursion Small-Group 3.5 hour Dolphin & Shelling Boat Tour
What's included
See an amazing variety of birds and other wildlife
Florida Master Naturalist Guide
Take advantage of great photo opportunities while on a large, stable boat
Explore an uninhabited barrier island on this exciting eco-tour
Detailed itinerary
1
While shelling remote island beaches, Marco Island will be in the background.
2
Shelling the uninhabited barrier island beaches of the 10,000 Islands overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Stunning views
3
Stop 3
The 10,000 Islands Excursion is the best way to experience the natural world around Marco Island. Conducted within the 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge, you will experience what many describe as, "The Best of Florida".
The tour is a two-part experience. The first part is a slow, intimate boating tour amongst the remote islands of the Ten Thousand Islands. While you search for dolphins, manatees and sea turtles, you may encounter ospreys, bald eagles, ibis, roseate spoonbill, egrets, herons and any number of shorebird species. All the while, your formally trained Florida Master Naturalist guide will talk to you about the area's ecosystems, it's long history and rich culture. The second part of your excursion is an exploration of a remote barrier island beach ... an island that you only can reach by boat ... an island that few get to experience. Learn about beach dynamics; stroll through the tidal flats and wade the tidal pools of these remote islands.
What's not included
Bottled water
Gratuities
The Goodland Boat Park charges a $10 parking fee. FREE parking is available outside the gate.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.4
21 reviews
5★
15
4★
3
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Tripadvisor
4.9
54 reviews
5★
50
4★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please arrive 20-25 minutes before departure to park and use the bathroom facilities. The tour boards 5 minute before the departure time.
Meeting point
This the Goodland Boat Park. Your phone's GPS will take you there. Please meet your captain under the covered picnic table pavillion. It is to the left of the Marina office as you are face the office.
Important notes
Please bring water, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and shoes you do not mind getting wet. A towel is also nice to have with you. Please arrive 20-25 minutes before departure to park and use the bathroom facilities. The tour boards 5 minutes before the departure time.
About Naples
Naples, Florida, known as the Paradise Coast, is a luxurious coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches, high-end shopping, and world-class golf courses. With a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, it's a perfect blend of natural beauty and upscale living, offering a unique Florida experience.
Top Attractions
Naples Pier
A historic pier extending into the Gulf of Mexico, offering stunning sunsets and great fishing spots.
Beach
1-2 hours
Free
Everglades National Park
A vast and diverse national park offering unique wildlife viewing and eco-tours.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free entry, tours vary in price
The Naples Botanical Garden
A beautiful garden showcasing diverse plant collections from around the world.
Nature
2-3 hours
$25 for adults, discounts for seniors and children
Must-Try Local Dishes
Grouper Sandwich
A local favorite featuring fresh grouper fish on a bun, often topped with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
Lunch
Gluten-free options available
Key Lime Pie
A classic Florida dessert made with key lime juice, condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.
Dessert
Vegetarian, gluten-free options available
Popular Activities
Airboat tours
Kayaking
Fishing
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Art gallery visits
Historical site tours
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the best time to visit Naples, with pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.
18-28°C
65-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Italian
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5:00)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Naples is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions to ensure a safe trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
- • Use reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Naples Municipal Airport • 4 miles from city center
- Southwest Florida International Airport • 35 miles from city center
By bus
Naples Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient, with frequent schedules during peak times.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Naples
Naples Beach
Olde Naples
Day trips
Marco Island
20 miles from Naples • Half day to full day
A beautiful island known for its stunning beaches, water sports, and luxury resorts.
Sanibel Island
40 miles from Naples • Full day
A picturesque island known for its shell beaches, wildlife refuges, and nature trails.
Festivals
Naples Winter Wine Festival • January
Naples National Art Festival • March
Pro tips
- Visit the Naples Pier at sunset for the best views
- Book golf tee times in advance, especially during peak season
- Explore the local art galleries and boutique shops in downtown Naples
- Try the local seafood, especially grouper and stone crab
- Visit the Everglades for a unique eco-tour experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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