Experience the stunning beauty of Marco Island’s 10,000 Islands on an intimate boat cruise. Departing from Goodland Boat Park, this 2-hour adventure takes you through a captivating mangrove ecosystem, offering the chance to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life. The highlight of the tour is a stop at a private beach, where you can indulge in the joys of shell collecting. Whether you’re a nature lover or seeking a family-friendly outing, this cruise promises an unforgettable experience. But the true wonder of this journey lies in the secrets it holds, waiting to be uncovered.
Key Points
- A 2-hour boat cruise from Goodland Boat Park in Florida that explores the 10,000 Islands and showcases mangrove ecosystems.
- Opportunities to spot diverse marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, rays, and sharks.
- Chance to collect various seashell species, such as Banded Tulip and Cowry Shell, on a private beach.
- Knowledgeable local guide provides commentary and insights throughout the tour, enhancing the overall experience.
- The cruise accommodates up to 14 participants, offering a family-friendly and intimate sightseeing adventure.
Activity Overview
The Marco Island Sightseeing and Shelling Tours offer a 2-hour boat cruise that departs from the Goodland Boat Park in Goodland, Florida.
The tour is priced from Kč2,230 per person and accommodates a small group of up to 14 participants.
The cruise traverses the 10,000 Islands, predominantly featuring mangrove trees, offering sightings of diverse marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, rays, and sharks.
Guests can disembark at a private beach to collect shells, with a variety of species available, such as Banded Tulip, Clam Shell, and Scotch Bonnet.
The tour includes a local guide, cooler with ice, drinks, and parking.
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Tour Highlights
Cruising through the 10,000 Islands, primarily dotted with mangrove trees, guests can expect sightings of diverse marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, rays, and sharks.
The tour also includes a stop at a private beach where participants can search for a variety of interesting shells, such as Banded Tulip, Clam Shell, Coquina Clam, Cowry Shell, Florida Fighting Conch, Lightning Whelk, Lined Moon Snail, Murex, Oyster, Ribbed Cantharus, Scallop, Scotch Bonnet, and Turret Shell.
This sightseeing and shelling adventure promises an engaging and enriching experience for both nature enthusiasts and those simply seeking to enjoy the tranquil waters and stunning coastal scenery of Marco Island.
Tour Inclusions
A local guide accompanies the cruise, providing commentary and insight throughout the tour.
Along With the knowledgeable guide, the tour includes a cooler stocked with ice and complimentary drinks for passengers.
Parking at the Goodland Boat Park is also covered, ensuring a hassle-free start to the adventure.
The tour fee also grants access to the Goodland Boating Park, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
With these inclusions, the Marco Island boat cruise offers a well-rounded and convenient experience for those seeking to explore the stunning 10,000 Islands region.
Accessibility and Suitability
Not suitable for wheelchair users, the Marco Island boat cruise is designed to accommodate a range of participants.
Adults aged 11 to 99, children aged 3 to 10, and infants 2 and younger can all enjoy the tour. The family-friendly environment features comfortable seating and easy boarding access, ensuring a pleasant experience for all.
While the tour may not be accessible for those with mobility challenges, the diverse age range and focus on providing a comfortable journey make it suitable for a wide audience.
Whether you’re seeking a scenic cruise or a chance to explore the unique marine life, this tour caters to both young and old.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 47 reviews, the Marco Island boat cruise has garnered overwhelmingly positive customer feedback.
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and personable captain, Jessica, who provides an engaging and informative experience.
Participants report numerous sightings of diverse marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and sharks.
While some feedback suggests the pricing could be better aligned with the overall value, the majority of reviews highlight the high-quality transportation and the overall enjoyment of the tour.
The family-friendly environment and comfortable seating also contribute to the positive customer experiences.
Getting to the Departure Point
The Marco Island boat cruise departs from the Goodland Boat Park, located at 740 Palm Point Dr, Goodland, FL 34140. Getting to the departure point is easy and convenient. The park offers ample parking, with a $10 parking fee. Visitors can also take advantage of the park’s amenities, such as restrooms and a boat launch ramp.
Transportation Options | Details |
---|---|
Driving | Free parking available with $10 fee |
Taxi/Rideshare | Approximately $20-30 from Marco Island |
Public Transportation | Not recommended, limited options available |
The cruise’s small group size and easy boarding access make it an ideal choice for families and individuals seeking a memorable sightseeing and shelling adventure on Marco Island.
What to Expect on the Cruise
Once visitors arrive at the Goodland Boat Park, they can look forward to an engaging and immersive sightseeing experience aboard the Marco Island boat cruise.
The 2-hour tour takes guests through the stunning 10,000 Islands, where they’ll have the chance to spot dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, rays, and sharks.
The small-group cruise allows for an intimate and personalized encounter with the local wildlife and mangrove ecosystems. Guests will stop at a private beach to search for a variety of seashells, including banded tulips, clams, cowries, and lightning whelks.
With a knowledgeable guide, coolers, and drinks provided, the Marco Island boat cruise promises an unforgettable exploration of the region’s natural beauty.
Additional Information
Participants can easily reach the departure point at Goodland Boat Park, which offers ample free parking.
The tour is capped at 14 guests, ensuring a small and intimate group experience.
The 2-hour cruise accommodates various age groups, from children as young as 3 to adults up to 99 years old.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, the boat provides comfortable seating and easy boarding access.
Guests can look forward to a complimentary cooler with drinks and the opportunity to collect a variety of unique seashells, including the iconic Banded Tulip and Scotch Bonnet.
With a 4.9/5 rating, this Marco Island boat tour promises an unforgettable sightseeing and shelling adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provides a cooler with ice, but guests are welcome to pack additional snacks and beverages if desired.
What Is the Policy for Children Under 3 Years Old?
According to the tour information, infants under 2 years old are welcome to join the tour free of charge. The tour is family-friendly and provides a comfortable environment for children.
Is There a Restroom Available on the Boat?
The tour provides a restroom on the boat for passengers’ convenience. The small group size and limited capacity of 14 participants ensure a comfortable and accessible experience throughout the 2-hour sightseeing and shelling excursion.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?
Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling gear. The tour allows participants to bring their own equipment, so you’re welcome to use your personal snorkeling gear during the shelling stop on the private beach.
How Many Tours Are Typically Offered per Day?
The tour operator typically offers multiple tours per day, usually around 3-4 tours, to accommodate varying schedules and demand. Specific tour times may vary depending on the season and availability.
Recap
The Marco Island: Shelling and Sightseeing Boat Cruise offers an unforgettable 2-hour adventure through the stunning 10,000 Islands. Guests can expect breathtaking views, opportunities to spot wildlife, and a stop at a private beach for shell collecting. Suitable for nature lovers and families, this intimate tour led by a knowledgeable guide provides an engaging and memorable experience.
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