Naples: Keewaydin Island Eco Shelling Cruise & Wildlife Tour

Summary

Gordon River cruise with dolphins shelling and quiet Keewaydin beach

You’ll drift along Naples’ Gordon River spotting dolphins and birds before landing on Keewaydin Island for shell collecting or just soaking up the quiet beach vibe. With an easygoing local captain guiding you and time to wander barefoot in soft sand, this eco shelling cruise feels less like a tour and more like borrowing someone else’s favorite spot for an afternoon.

What’s the experience like?

I’d been curious about the Gordon River for ages — it’s one of those places you always hear locals mention but never get around to seeing yourself. The morning we set out for the eco shelling cruise to Keewaydin Island, I was half-expecting just another boat ride. But as soon as we slipped past the mangroves, that expectation sort of melted away. There’s this earthy smell from the roots and brackish water, and our captain — Captain Mike — started pointing out birds I’d never even noticed before. He had these stories about how the estuaries keep everything alive here. At one point, a dolphin surfaced so close I could hear its breath. That sound sticks with you.

The ride itself is easygoing — not too long (three hours total), and there’s bottled water if you forget your own. We passed some wild-looking mansions that made me wonder who lives in them, but honestly, I barely cared once we got near Keewaydin Island. The sand there is softer than I expected; it kind of squeaks under your feet. They handed us these little mesh bags for shelling (which I appreciated because my pockets are still full of old receipts). I wandered off a bit by myself and found a weirdly perfect olive shell — felt like winning something small but real.

We had time to just walk or sit on the beach if you wanted — no pressure to do anything in particular. Some folks went swimming; others just poked around looking for shells or driftwood. The sun was warm but not punishing, and there was this breeze that made it feel like you could stay forever without getting restless. Captain Mike shared a story about manatees getting tangled in fishing line once, which made me look at the water differently after that. It’s funny how a short trip can shift how you see a place.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Eco cruise and island exploration

• Cruise Naples Bay and see mansions
• Pass mangrove forests and spot wildlife
• Listen to historical and ecological narration
• Stop at Keewaydin Island for beach walk
• Collect seashells with provided shelling bag
• Relax and dip toes in Gulf Waters

Top questions

How long is the eco shelling cruise to Keewaydin Island?

The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

Is bottled water provided during the tour?

Yes, bottled water is included for all guests onboard.

What wildlife might I see on this tour?

You may see dolphins, birds, manatees, and possibly alligators along the Gordon River.

Are children allowed on the cruise?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is there parking available at the departure point?

Free parking is included for all guests joining the tour.

Is this tour suitable for people with walking disabilities?

No, due to uneven surfaces when disembarking onto Keewaydin Island, it’s not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using wheelchairs.

Do I need to bring my own bag for collecting shells?

No need — each guest receives a complimentary shelling bag as part of the tour.

Are service animals allowed onboard?

No service animals are allowed onboard unless you contact their office directly regarding participation needs.

What’s included

Your day includes free parking at departure, bottled water throughout the cruise, historical and ecological commentary from your local captain, plus a mesh bag for collecting shells on Keewaydin Island before returning back up Gordon River toward Naples.