Dolphin & Shelling Adventure with Aquaterra Excursions
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required during boat and beach segments.
Overview
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.
Dolphin, Birding, and Shelling Tour
$89.95 • 2 Hours • A Two-Hour Naturalist-Led Boating Tour
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of Marco's Best Dolphin and Shelling Tour! This two-hour adventure combines a naturalist-led dolphin and birding tour with a shelling exploration on a remote barrier island. Encounter diverse wildlife, including manatees and eagles, while learning about the unique beach dynamics of the stunning Everglades region.
Marco's Best Dolphin and Shelling Tour!
Rates
Adults (Ages 12+) - $89.95 Children (Ages 11 & Under) - $69.95
Duration
2 Hours
About
Consisting of two parts, The Dolphin, Birding and Shelling Tour is a wonderful experience for the whole family and a great introduction to the area. First a dolphin tour to search for dolphins and wading birds on a naturalist-led boating tour. Then a shelling tour to explore an uninhabited barrier island. You will learn about the island's beach dynamics and collect some of the wonderful shells on these remote islands.
In comfortable captain's style seating an, you will be safely brought deep into the 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge for a two-hour interpretive tour of the area led by a Florida Master Naturalist. Depending on the season, you can expect to encounter manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, bald eagles, ospreys, herons, egrets, pelicans, rosette spoonbills, as well as, numerous species of fish and shore birds.
The entire Everglades area, including Everglades National Park and the 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge, is a wonderful place for wildlife, particularly manatees, dolphins, and wading birds. Marco Island is one of the largest and the western most of the 10,000 Islands. We will spend some time exploring and shelling on one of the other 9,999 Islands!
Adventure Tips
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.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- West Indian manatees
- Rosette spoonbills
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.
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Adventure Hotspots in Naples, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
Enhances bird and dolphin spotting during the boating portion.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from UV exposure under Florida’s strong sun.
summer specific
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 specific