10,000 Islands: Private Shelling & Dolphin Excursion

Summary

Private boat trip with dolphins wild shells and peaceful islands

You’ll set out by private boat into Florida’s 10,000 Islands with a local guide, spotting wild dolphins up close before beachcombing on remote islands covered in shells. Expect laughter (and maybe some friendly competition) as you fill your bucket with unique finds. The pace is relaxed—perfect for families or friends looking for real moments together away from crowds.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how quiet it felt out on the water, just us and the low hum of the boat. We’d barely left the dock in the 10,000 Islands when our guide, Mark (born here — you could tell by how he talked about mangroves), pointed out a pair of dolphins weaving near our wake. My nephew tried to mimic their clicks — not even close, but we all cracked up anyway. The air smelled salty and green at the same time, if that makes sense. I kept thinking I’d seen a million beaches before but this was different.

We stopped at an island that looked like it had been dusted with seashells instead of sand. Mark handed us buckets and told us about lightning whelks and olives (the shells, not the food — I didn’t know either). It wasn’t crowded at all; just us poking around while tiny crabs zipped sideways underfoot. My sister found a shell shaped like a heart and held it up like she’d won something big. There was this soft breeze that made everything feel slow in a good way.

I’ll admit I thought two and a half hours might be too short for a day trip to the 10,000 Islands from Marco Island or Naples — but honestly, it was just right. The kids never got bored and nobody got sunburned (for once). On the ride back, we passed more dolphins — one jumped so close I almost dropped my phone. Mark told stories about hurricanes and how the mangroves hold everything together here. I still think about that view heading home: sunlight bouncing off water, everyone quiet for once because they were actually happy just being there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private shelling and dolphin excursion

• Explore largest US mangrove forest
• Watch wild dolphins swim nearby
• Visit remote islands with shells
• Learn about local ecosystem and history

Top questions

How long does the private shelling & dolphin excursion last?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Is this excursion suitable for young children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed.

Are service animals allowed on the boat tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted on this excursion.

What should I bring for shell collecting?

Buckets and bags for shells are provided as part of your tour.

Does the tour include drinks or snacks?

Bottled water is included along with a cooler filled with ice; no snacks mentioned.

Will we see dolphins every time?

Dolphin sightings are common but cannot be guaranteed as they are wild animals.

Is pickup included in this day trip to the 10,000 Islands?

The tour includes all equipment but does not specify hotel pickup; check when booking.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water to keep you cool under the sun, a cooler packed with ice for any extras you bring along, plus buckets and bags for every shell you find along those quiet barrier islands—everything handled so you can just enjoy exploring with your guide before heading back relaxed.