THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the Everglades’ thriving ecosystem on a private tour aboard the Jaybird II. Explore secluded barrier islands, spot manatees and dolphins, and enjoy personalized adventures in Southwest Florida's pristine coastal waterways.
Discover the Everglades’ thriving ecosystem on a private tour aboard the Jaybird II. Explore secluded barrier islands, spot manatees and dolphins, and enjoy personalized adventures in Southwest Florida's pristine coastal waterways.
Book with Just Add Water and Sun LLC
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Just Add Water and Sun LLC · Naples, Florida
Embark on a unique and intimate journey through one of Florida’s most remarkable natural landscapes with the Extended Private Shell Wildlife Eco Excursion. Departing from Naples, this exclusive tour invites up to six guests aboard the custom Jaybird II, a vessel designed for both comfort and eco-friendly navigation through the serene waters of the Faka Union River and the Gulf of Mexico. This is more than a boat trip — it’s a close-up encounter with the raw beauty and delicate ecosystems of the Everglades.
The Faka Union River corridor cuts through mangroves and shallow estuaries, providing a perfect habitat that supports diverse wildlife and vibrant shell beds. This excursion offers travelers a chance to spot elusive manatees, playful dolphins, and a variety of shorebirds in their natural environment. The shifting tides expose pristine barrier islands, ideal for shelling enthusiasts eager to collect rare finds or simply enjoy the peace of white sandy beaches away from crowded tourist spots.
What sets this eco tour apart is its private, personalized approach. With a small group size capped at six passengers, you can tailor the experience to your interests, whether that means focusing on wildlife photography, snorkeling in calm waters, or indulging in a picnic surrounded by untouched nature. Your guide intimately understands the fragile Everglades environment, ensuring your adventure is responsible and respectful to the habitat.
Naples, Florida, serves as the perfect launching point, blending tropical warmth with easy access to the Everglades’ coastal waterways. Known for its luxurious charm and vibrant arts scene, Naples offers a comfortable base before or after your excursion. The timing of the trip can be adapted according to seasonal wildlife activity, making every voyage feel fresh and uniquely timed.
This eco excursion isn’t just an outing; it’s a doorway into sustainable travel and a deep appreciation for Southwest Florida’s iconic wetlands. Whether you are a naturalist, a photography enthusiast, or someone seeking calm waters and hidden beaches, this trip will enrich your understanding and connection to this extraordinary ecosystem. Book now to secure a spot on the Jaybird II and experience the Everglades like never before.
easy.
3–5 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic mobility required to board the boat and walk on sandy islands
Yes, the tour is family-friendly with a small group size and gentle boat access, but children should be supervised at all times.
Common sightings include manatees, dolphins, herons, egrets, and various shellfish along the barrier islands.
Guests can bring their own picnic items to enjoy on a secluded island during the excursion.
Yes, the guide adapts the itinerary based on interests such as shelling, swimming, and wildlife viewing.
Cancellation policies vary; please check the booking provider's terms when reserving your spot.
Currently, the Jaybird II does not support wheelchair boarding due to its design and launch conditions.
The Faka Union River region has long been part of indigenous Seminole territories and later became critical for salt and shellfish harvesting in the early 20th century.
The tour operator follows strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to wildlife habitats and supports local conservation pathways through eco-tourism revenue.
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.
Book with Just Add Water and Sun LLC