Explore the vibrant marine life of Shell Key on a private dolphin-snorkeling cruise with Island Ferry of St. Pete. Swim alongside dolphins, spot manatees, and relax in stunning Florida waters.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic swimming ability recommended.
Wildlife
History
Shell Key has historically been important to local Indigenous tribes and continues to be protected as a natural habitat under Florida conservation efforts.
Conservation
Tours prioritize low-impact practices, including use of reef-safe products and educating visitors about protecting marine ecosystems.
Island Ferry of St. Pete
Explore the vibrant marine life of Shell Key on a private dolphin-snorkeling cruise with Island Ferry of St. Pete. Swim alongside dolphins, spot manatees, and relax in stunning Florida waters.
Island Ferry of St. Pete, based in St. Petersburg, Florida, operates boat tours and private charters focused on snorkeling, wildlife viewing, shelling, and sandbar gatherings. The business offers multiple trip formats designed to showcase nearby barrier islands and coastal keys. Popular offerings include the Private Snorkeling Charter to Egmont, Outback & Shell Keys — a 4.5-hour private tour with a dedicated boat and crew for snorkeling, swimming, and shelling. Island Ferry of St. Pete also runs Dolphin-Snorkeling Cruises to Shell Key that combine snorkeling at Shell Key with opportunities to observe dolphins, manatees, and rays. A morning 9AM Dolphin-Snorkeling Cruise option is available and highlights shaded boats, cold drinks, and crew on lifeguard duty for guest safety.
For groups seeking a social beach-style experience, Island Ferry of St. Pete provides a Sandbar Party private charter — a 4.5-hour pontoon trip equipped with Bluetooth music connectivity, a floating bar, and ample cooler space. The company focuses on private and small-group formats by assigning dedicated boats and crews for private charters and staffing excursions with crew members who support snorkeling and passenger safety. Trips depart from St. Petersburg waters and emphasize accessible wildlife viewing, coastal snorkeling, and shelling at nearby keys. Island Ferry of St. Pete presents clearly described trip options and on-boat amenities to help travelers choose the right snorkeling, dolphin-watching, or sandbar experience.
Tours Offered
4 trips
Snorkels, dolphin cruises, sandbar party
Typical Duration
4.5 hours
Common length for private charters
Private Charters
Available
Dedicated boat and crew provided
Key Destinations
Shell Key & Egmont
Wildlife, snorkeling, shelling hotspots
Book a 4.5-hour private snorkeling or sandbar party, or join a dolphin-snorkeling cruise departing St. Petersburg, FL.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and the marine environment by using environmentally friendly sunscreen before snorkeling.
Wear a Life Vest for Safety
Life vests are provided and highly recommended, especially for less confident swimmers in open water.
Stay Hydrated
Florida’s sun can be intense; bring water to stay hydrated throughout the cruise.
Respect Wildlife Distance
Keep a safe distance from dolphins and manatees to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
Snorkeling Mask & Snorkel
Essential for underwater viewing and breathing comfortably during the snorkel portion.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself from UV rays while keeping the local marine ecosystem healthy.
summer
Waterproof Camera or GoPro
Capture beautiful underwater scenes and dolphin encounters during the cruise.
Lightweight Swim Shirt or Rash Guard
Provides sun protection and helps prevent skin irritation from saltwater.
summer