Situated on Florida’s southwest coast, the Ten Thousand Islands Shelling Tour provides an enchanting opportunity to explore the region’s captivating natural wonders. Led by a certified master naturalist, this small-group excursion immerses participants in the serene barrier islands surrounding Marco Island. From the search for rare seashells on pristine sandbars to a journey through the Rookery Bay Preserve, the tour promises an enriching experience that illuminates the ecological significance of this remarkable coastal ecosystem. With limited group sizes, the tour ensures personalized attention, inviting travelers to uncover the hidden treasures that make this region so exceptional.
This experience made our list of the 5 Best Tours In Goodland Florida.
Key Points
- A 2.5-hour guided adventure exploring remote barrier islands around Marco Island for rare seashells with a certified master naturalist.
- Personalized small-group experience (up to 6 guests) with access to the Rookery Bay Preserve mangrove estuary, a National Estuarine Research Reserve.
- Opportunities to discover unique shells along the shores of Caxambas sandbars, Kice Island, and Morgan Island.
- Includes complimentary shelling bags, a cooler with ice, and entry to the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
- Limited parking available at the meeting location in Goodland, with a $10 fee, so early arrival is recommended.
Tour Overview
The Ten Thousand Islands Shelling Tour offers participants a 2.5-hour adventure to explore the remote barrier islands surrounding Marco Island.
Priced at $125 per person, the small-group tour is limited to 6 guests, ensuring a personalized experience led by a live, English-speaking tour guide and certified master naturalist.
Guests will discover rare and sought-after seashells while visiting Caxambas sandbars, Kice Island, and Morgan Island.
The tour also includes a visit to the Rookery Bay Preserve mangrove estuary, a National Estuarine Research Reserve.
Complimentary shelling bags, a cooler with ice, and access to restrooms on board are provided, making this an all-inclusive and convenient excursion.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Goodland Florida.
Experience Highlights
During the Ten Thousand Islands Shelling Tour, guests can explore remote barrier islands around Marco Island, searching for rare and sought-after seashells.
With expert guidance from the certified master naturalist guide, the tour visits shelling locations like Caxambas sandbars, Kice Island, and Morgan Island.
Guests will have the opportunity to discover unique shells and learn about the diverse ecosystem of the Ten Thousand Islands, which is part of the Rookery Bay Preserve mangrove estuary, a National Estuarine Research Reserve.
The small group size, limited to 6 participants, ensures a personalized and enriching experience in this remote and picturesque setting.
Meeting and Cancellation Details
Guests meet the captain and certified master naturalist guide in Goodland to embark on the Ten Thousand Islands Shelling Tour.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexibility in planning. Guests should arrive early as parking is limited, with a $10 fee required.
Recommended transportation options include Uber, Lyft, or taxi to make the most of the experience.
The tour’s small group size, limited to 6 participants, ensures a personalized and guided exploration of the remote barrier islands and their abundant seashell treasures.
Inclusions and Amenities
The tour’s complimentary shelling bags allow guests to conveniently collect and store their discovered seashell treasures.
A cooler with ice is provided to keep any fragile shells protected. Entry and admission to the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is included, ensuring visitors have access to the prime shelling locations.
For added comfort, a restroom is available on the boat. Guests can arrive at their leisure, though early arrival is recommended due to limited parking.
Parking fees of $10 will apply, and a receipt should be displayed on the dashboard. For those seeking a stress-free experience, rideshare services like Uber, Lyft, or taxis are the recommended transportation options.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyParking and Transportation
Upon arrival, visitors will find that parking is limited at the tour’s meeting location in Goodland. A parking fee of $10 is required, and visitors must display the receipt on their dashboard.
With limited spaces available, it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. Alternatively, visitors can consider taking a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft, or hailing a taxi, to avoid the hassle of finding parking.
The tour operator emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and allowing enough time to park and meet the tour guide to ensure a seamless start to the Ten Thousand Islands shelling experience.
Remote Barrier Islands
The tour’s remote barrier islands provide an unparalleled opportunity to explore untouched natural habitats and uncover a bounty of rare seashells.
These secluded islands, including Caxambas sandbars, Kice Island, and Morgan Island, are accessible only by boat, offering a truly secluded and pristine experience.
Guests will be guided by an expert naturalist, who’ll share their extensive knowledge of the local ecosystem and help identify unique shells that have been washed ashore.
The tour’s focus on responsible and sustainable exploration ensures visitors can appreciate the beauty of this fragile environment without causing any harm.
With limited group sizes, guests can enjoy the tranquility of the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
Shelling Locations
Although the remote barrier islands offer a serene and untouched natural setting, the real allure of the Ten Thousand Islands Shelling Tour lies in the diverse array of seashells that can be found along the shores.
Guided by an expert naturalist, you will explore the Caxambas sandbars, Kice Island, and Morgan Island – all renowned for their exceptional shelling opportunities.
From rare and sought-after specimens to more common but no less captivating varieties, the tour provides a chance to uncover the hidden treasures of this remarkable coastal ecosystem.
With the guidance of the knowledgeable guide, guests can maximize their chances of finding that perfect, unique shell to take home as a memento of their unforgettable experience.
Mangrove Estuary Exploration
After exploring the pristine barrier islands, the tour ventures into the lush, verdant mangrove estuary of the Rookery Bay Preserve. This National Estuarine Research Reserve is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. Guests will have the opportunity to observe the intricate web of life within this protected ecosystem. The guide will share insights into the crucial role mangroves play in sustaining coastal environments. Visitors can expect to see wading birds, fish, and other marine life thriving in this uniquely beautiful setting.
| Mangrove Estuary Highlights | ||
|---|---|---|
| Diverse Flora & Fauna | Wading Birds | Fish & Marine Life |
| Vital Coastal Ecosystem | Lush Vegetation | Protected Habitat |
| Guided Exploration | Environmental Importance | Scenic Beauty |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?
The recommended attire for the tour includes comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, closed-toe shoes for walking on the beach, and a hat or sunglasses to protect against the sun. Bringing sun protection and dressing in layers is also advised.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
There are no age restrictions for participants on this tour. It’s suitable for all ages, though young children may require closer supervision. The tour welcomes adventurers of all backgrounds to explore and discover the natural wonders of the Ten Thousand Islands.
Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks?
Yes, participants can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. A cooler with ice is provided, so guests are welcome to pack their own refreshments to enjoy during the 2.5-hour excursion.
Is the Boat Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tour provider does not explicitly state whether the boat is accessible for people with disabilities. Customers should contact the tour company prior to booking to inquire about accessibility and any accommodations they may require.
Can We Extend the Tour Duration if We Need More Time?
The tour duration can’t be extended beyond the scheduled 2.5 hours. However, participants can book an additional tour if they need more time to explore the islands and search for seashells with the expert guide.
Recap
The Ten Thousand Islands Shelling Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the pristine barrier islands around Marco Island and discover rare seashells. Guided by a certified naturalist, guests embark on a small-group experience, gaining insights into the coastal ecosystem and the importance of mangrove habitats. This captivating 2.5-hour adventure provides a remarkable chance to take in the natural beauty of this remarkable region.
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