Discover the wild heart of the Everglades on a guided boat-assisted kayak adventure with Aquaterra Excursions. Witness dolphins, manatees, and lush wetlands in an eco-focused journey designed for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Read on to find out why this trip offers a rare glimpse into one of America's most vital ecosystems.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with light paddling and walking involved
Wildlife
History
The Everglades have been a vital part of Florida’s cultural and ecological history since indigenous tribes first inhabited the region thousands of years ago.
Conservation
This area is actively managed to preserve its fragile ecosystems through sustainable tourism and habitat restoration projects.
Aquaterra Excursions
Discover the wild heart of the Everglades on a guided boat-assisted kayak adventure with Aquaterra Excursions. Witness dolphins, manatees, and lush wetlands in an eco-focused journey designed for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Read on to find out why this trip offers a rare glimpse into one of America's most vital ecosystems.
Aquaterra Excursions is a Marco Island, Florida-based outfitter specializing in guided sea kayaking, boat and shelling excursions across the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands. The company operates multi-day sea kayak camping trips along the Wilderness Waterway and shorter guided eco-tours, combining wildlife viewing with hands-on interpretation by experienced guides.
Trips include family-friendly boating, shelling and fishing outings, three- and five-day kayak camping itineraries, boat-assisted kayak adventures, mangrove tunnel paddles, swamp walks, and photographic safaris in remote islands.
Aquaterra partners with local experts and runs select tours guided by Florida Master Naturalists, offering interpretive information about manatees, dolphins, birdlife, mangrove ecology, and coastal habitats. The fleet and equipment are organized to support guided paddling and boat-assisted logistics for remote access to beaches, shelling grounds, and tidal creeks. Private and customizable tour options are available for groups seeking tailored itineraries, photography-focused trips, or family experiences.
Safety protocols, route planning on the Wilderness Waterway, and logistics for multi-day camping trips are core operational elements, ensuring guests can focus on wildlife viewing and paddling. Aquaterra’s location on Marco Island positions it for direct access to the Everglades National Park, the Ten Thousand Islands, and nearby mangrove systems. The company emphasizes small-group experiences, expert-led interpretation, and configurable tours that suit a range of abilities and interests.
Reservations, detailed itineraries, and packing lists are available through Aquaterra Excursions’ booking channels; guests are encouraged to book early for peak seasons to secure preferred dates for guided eco tours, shelling trips, and multi-day kayak camping routes regularly.
Location
Marco Island, FL
Gateway to Everglades & 10,000 Islands
Tours Offered
21 tours
Kayak, boat, shelling, camping
Guided Tours
Florida Master Naturalists
Select tours led by experts
Private Options
Private & Custom
Photography and family trips available
Choose guided kayak trips, boat-assisted eco tours, private excursions, or multi-day Wilderness Waterway camping — limited spaces on multi-day and private tours.
Wear Sun Protection
Apply waterproof sunscreen and wear a hat to shield yourself from Florida’s strong sun during the tour.
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized by carrying plenty of water and light snacks for the trip.
Dress for Mobility
Choose quick-drying clothing and secure footwear suitable for water activities and walking portions.
Follow Wildlife Guidelines
Keep a respectful distance from wildlife and avoid sudden movements to protect the animals and your group.
Wide-brimmed Hat
Provides shade and protects you from sunburn during prolonged exposure.
summer
Waterproof Sunscreen
Helps prevent sun damage while exploring in open outdoor areas.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Light Water Shoes or Sandals
Ideal footwear for kayaking and walking parts, ensuring quick drying.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing and spotting distant birds or mammals.