Set out from Marco Island for a two-hour naturalist-led tour that combines dolphin sightings, birdwatching, and shelling on a remote island in Florida’s 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge. Discover wildlife and the unique coastal environment on this engaging adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required during boat and beach segments.
Wildlife
History
The 10,000 Islands area has long been home to Native American tribes and was historically used for fishing and shelling by early settlers.
Conservation
The 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge is protected to preserve fragile coastal ecosystems and the species that depend on them, promoting sustainable tourism through guided education.
Aquaterra Excursions
Set out from Marco Island for a two-hour naturalist-led tour that combines dolphin sightings, birdwatching, and shelling on a remote island in Florida’s 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge. Discover wildlife and the unique coastal environment on this engaging adventure.
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.
Bring binoculars for better birding views
Binoculars will help you identify distant wading birds and eagles during the boat tour.
Wear UV-protective clothing and sunscreen
Sun exposure is significant during the boat and beach portions; dress accordingly and reapply sunscreen.
Keep a safe distance from wildlife
Observe dolphins, manatees, and birds respectfully to avoid disturbing their natural behaviors.
Bring a waterproof bag for your shell finds
A waterproof pouch protects your shell collection from saltwater during transit back to shore.
Binoculars
Enhances bird and dolphin spotting during the boating portion.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from UV exposure under Florida’s strong sun.
summer
Waterproof bag or dry sack
Keeps shell collections and personal items dry and safe.
Lightweight, UV-protective clothing
Provides sun protection and comfort during warm, sunny days.
spring|summer|fall