Shell Island Snorkeling: Private Charter with Dolphins

The captain tailors the route to dolphins, snorkeling, or beach time, so the day stays yours instead of locked into a schedule.

A private snorkeling charter to Shell Island where you search for dolphins in the bay, snorkel in shallow waters for fish and shells, then spend time swimming or relaxing on the beach—the itinerary shifts based on what your group wants to do. The boat holds only your party, so the pace and stops are yours to shape. Life jackets, snorkel gear and paddle boards are included; you can bring your own snorkel equipment if you prefer. Choose between a 2.5-hour or 4-hour charter, and arrive 30 minutes before departure.

The Experience

The day starts with a cruise through the bay while the captain searches for local dolphins in their natural habitat. Unlike a fixed route, you'll spend as much or as little time here as your group wants—watching them swim and play alongside the boat, or moving on to the next stop if the dolphins aren't showing. Because it's your charter, there's no schedule pushing you forward.

From there, the boat heads to Shell Island, a barrier island with clear shallow waters where you can snorkel and explore the marine life. You'll see fish, shells and coastal wildlife without fighting crowds or following a group. After snorkeling, the day opens up: swim in the water, walk the beach and collect shells, paddle on the boards, or simply sit on the boat and take in the scenery. The captain helps shape what comes next based on what feels right for your group.

Life jackets, snorkel gear and paddle boards come with the charter. You can bring your own snorkel equipment if you have a preference. Check in 30 minutes before departure, and pick the length that fits your day—2.5 hours or 4 hours on the water.

What’s included

• Use of life jackets.
• snorkel equipment and paddle boards.
• all fees and taxes.
• a live English-speaking guide who customizes the route to your group's preferences.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditionsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Island Time Sailing

Is this one for you?Book this charter if your group wants to move at its own pace instead of following a fixed itinerary—you choose whether to spend more time dolphin watching, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach, and the captain adjusts the day around what works for you.

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Top questions

What's the difference between the 2.5-hour and 4-hour private charter?

The 2.5-hour charter gives you time for dolphin searching and snorkeling at Shell Island with a shorter window for beach time; the 4-hour charter lets you linger longer at each stop and spend more time relaxing on the water or exploring the island.

Will we definitely see dolphins on this snorkeling trip?

Dolphins are common in the bay and you'll cruise through their habitat searching for them, but sightings are not guaranteed—the captain will spend as much time as your group wants looking, and can adjust the route if they're not appearing.

What snorkel equipment is provided, and can I bring my own?

Snorkel gear is included with the charter; you're welcome to bring your own equipment if you prefer to use what you're familiar with.

Is this snorkeling trip suitable for children or people who have never snorkeled before?

The shallow waters at Shell Island work well for beginners and children, and life jackets are provided for everyone; the captain can guide you through snorkeling basics, though the experience is suitable for all fitness levels.

What do I need to bring or know before arriving?

Arrive 30 minutes before your departure time for check-in; bring a towel, sunscreen and water if you'd like, and wear clothes you don't mind getting wet—the life jacket and snorkel gear are supplied.