Shell Island Snorkeling: Private Charter with Dolphins

4.78 (32 reviews) 88% rated it 5 stars
Free cancellationExcellent quality
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1/11
Duration3h
GroupPrivate
Live guideEN
Book up to2h before

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.

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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.

Options for this experience

2 options
Private charter lasting 2.5 hoursGuide in English · 7 departure times: the first at 09:00, the last at 15:00Up to 49 passengers: you book an entire boat for 49 people, and a captain and crew come with it.
Private charter lasting 4 hoursGuide in English · 5 departure times: the first at 09:00, the last at 13:00Maximum 49 passengers: the private charter comes with a captain and crew.
You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day7 departure times: the first at 09:00, the last at 15:00Last departure this season: 12 Apr 2027
Book up to2h before
GroupPrivate
Live guideEnglish
Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.
Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know
Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problemsInfants 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.

Traveler reviews

4.78
32 verified traveler reviews
5 ★28
4 ★1
3 ★3
2 ★0
1 ★0
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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

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.

Shell Island Snorkeling: Private Charter with Dolphins

3h · EN

from US$ 640.93 per group

4.7832 reviewsVerified traveler reviews via our booking provider
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