Spend six hours island‑hopping from Maximo Park boat ramp to Egmont Key, Shell Key and sand dollar flats. Choose snorkeling among Fort Dade ruins, shell collecting on uninhabited islands, and dolphin‑watching on this customizable Gulf of Mexico tour.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The bow cuts a low wake as the sky lightens over Boca Ciega Bay. Salt spray finds the back of your neck and the engine sighs into a steady rhythm; on the horizon, a low green rim of islands waits. On this six‑hour outing from Maximo Park boat ramp, the water itself drives the itinerary — where the sea is clearest, where sandbars have formed, and which wreck or relic begs to be snorkeled. Guests choose their focus: historic ruins at Egmont Key, tidal sandbars thick with sand dollars, or the quiet shell fields of Shell Key Preserve.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: ability to step on/off a boat, enter shallow water while wearing snorkel gear, and walk short stretches on soft sand.
Wildlife
History
Egmont Key holds the ruins of Fort Dade and a 19th‑century lighthouse; its defenses were part of Tampa Bay’s coastal network through the Spanish‑American War era.
Conservation
The islands are protected habitats; operators emphasize no‑take rules for live shells and avoiding disturbance to nesting birds and seagrass beds.
Reserve your spot on the Island Hopping and Snorkeling Trip today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
Use only reef‑safe sunscreen and a sun shirt; the operator emphasizes marine protection and long sun exposure is likely on sandbars.
Wear quick‑dry shoes for landings
Water shoes or reef sandals protect feet on pebbly shores and when walking sandbars to find shells or sand dollars.
Prep for seasickness
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take preventative medication or bring ginger—there’s no shelter during crossings.
Respect protected areas
Do not disturb shorebird nests or collect live shells; the islands are nesting and nursery habitats for many species.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the bay’s seagrass and coral communities.
summer
Water shoes
Protects feet when landing on rocky or shelly shores and walking sandbars.
Light rashguard or sun shirt
Provides sun protection during prolonged exposure on the boat or sandbars.
summer
Small dry bag
Keeps phone, keys and snacks dry while you move between boat and shore.