Discover a quiet waterway adventure through Florida’s 10,000 Islands, spotting dolphins, manatees, and alligators on a 5-hour boat tour from Naples. Experience the secluded Cape Romano shoals and hidden shell islands rarely visited by visitors.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical shape to comfortably sit and stand on a boat for the duration and be able to embark and disembark safely.
Wildlife
History
Cape Romano’s abandoned dome homes, built in the 1980s, now stand as eerie reminders along these largely undeveloped shoals.
Conservation
Tours in the 10,000 Islands follow strict guidelines to reduce wildlife disturbance and protect fragile mangrove habitats.
Just Add Water and Sun LLC
Discover a quiet waterway adventure through Florida’s 10,000 Islands, spotting dolphins, manatees, and alligators on a 5-hour boat tour from Naples. Experience the secluded Cape Romano shoals and hidden shell islands rarely visited by visitors.
Just Add Water and Sun LLC is a Naples, Florida tour operator offering private, small-group eco tours through the 10,000 Islands and surrounding waters of Everglades National Park. Operating aboard the custom-designed Jaybird II, the company runs personalized wildlife and shelling excursions that focus on quiet, low-impact exploration of barrier islands, shoals, and estuaries.
Trips include the Private Shell Wildlife Eco Tour, the Amazing Cape Romano/10,000 Island Adventure, and the Extended Private Shell Wildlife Eco Excursion. Each excursion visits core destinations such as Cape Romano Shoals, the Faka Union River, and secluded barrier islands where passengers can shell, swim, picnic, and relax. Wildlife commonly targeted on trips includes dolphins, manatees, and alligators; sightings are part of the natural experience in the 10,000 Islands and Everglades waters.
Tours are private and limited in size—some experiences specify a maximum of six passengers—enabling a quieter encounter with nature and more time ashore. The Jaybird II is used for Faka Union River and Gulf of Mexico access on extended excursions, supporting activities like shelling and swimming. Launches occur from Naples, FL, providing easy access for visitors and residents seeking guided outings in nearby marine and coastal habitats.
Information about bookings, availability, and specific itineraries is provided by the operator. The company's offerings emphasize eco-conscious, small-group boating through sensitive coastal environments to observe wildlife, explore Cape Romano, and discover shell islands in the Everglades. The operator emphasizes respectful wildlife viewing practices and applies local-area knowledge to select routes, timing, and island stops for better experiences.
Location
Naples, FL
Launches from Naples, Florida
Vessel
Jaybird II
Custom-designed tour boat
Max Guests
6
Private tours limited to six passengers
Wildlife
Dolphins, Manatees, Alligators
Sightings possible in the 10,000 Islands
Book private shelling, swimming, and wildlife viewing trips from Naples, FL — small groups, limited seats, custom stops at Cape Romano and the 10,000 Islands.
Bring binoculars
A good pair of binoculars will help you spot distant wildlife like dolphins and bald eagles in the mangroves.
Wear sun protection
Florida sun can be intense even on overcast days, so sunscreen and a hat are essential.
Bring water and snacks
Though the trip lasts around 5 hours, pack water and light snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
Dress for wet conditions
Expect spray from the water and potential sudden weather changes, so quick-dry clothing is recommended.
Binoculars
Helps to clearly observe distant wildlife and bird species in and around the mangroves.
summer
Waterproof jacket
Protects from boat spray and unexpected rain showers typical in coastal Florida.
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Sun hat
Offers shade and protects your face from strong sun rays during the trip.
spring
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the 5-hour tour without contributing to plastic waste.
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