Discover Florida’s oldest lighthouse, historic Fort Dade ruins, and native wildlife on a private 3-hour trip to Egmont Key. Snorkel sunken battlements and witness Gopher Tortoises in a protected refuge.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals in average physical condition; involves swimming/snorkeling and walking on uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
Fort Dade was built in the late 19th century to defend Tampa Bay; the island’s lighthouse dates back to 1858, still operational today.
Conservation
Egmont Key is managed as a National Wildlife Refuge to protect fragile habitats and prevent overdevelopment, emphasizing sustainable visitation practices.
Coastline Excursions
Discover Florida’s oldest lighthouse, historic Fort Dade ruins, and native wildlife on a private 3-hour trip to Egmont Key. Snorkel sunken battlements and witness Gopher Tortoises in a protected refuge.
Coastline Excursions operates guided boat trips and snorkel experiences around Egmont Key and Anna Maria Island in Florida. Featured on The Adventure Collective, the company specializes in short shore excursions and private charters that range from two- to eight-hour outings.
Trips include scheduled group excursions and private options, with itineraries highlighting historic Fort Dade, Florida’s oldest working lighthouse, shallow sandbars, and sheltered emerald waters ideal for marine wildlife viewing.
Coastline Excursions offers multiple formats: two-hour Anna Maria Island cruises for dolphin and manatee sightings; two- to four-hour and three- to four-hour Egmont Key excursions that combine island exploration with snorkels among the sunken ruins of Fort Dade; and private six- and eight-hour custom trips for extended cruising or snorkeling.
Every trip description notes specific wildlife and points of interest, such as gopher tortoises on land and vibrant sub-tropical fish in the reef and wreck sites. Safety and clear trip details are central to Coastline Excursions’ offerings: each product summary lists duration and activities so guests can choose the right excursion. The company’s focus on natural and historic sites supports responsible visitation of a National Wildlife Refuge and local island habitats. For travelers seeking guided snorkeling, wildlife viewing, or private full-day outings around Egmont Key and Anna Maria Island, Coastline Excursions provides straightforward options, transparent trip summaries, and a range of durations to match visitor priorities. Booking information, departure points, and gear recommendations are provided on each trip listing to help guests prepare and select the appropriate experience before their arrival.
Tours Offered
7 tours
Egmont Key and Anna Maria itineraries
Typical Duration
2–8 hours
Short cruises to full-day private trips
Wildlife Highlights
Dolphins & manatees
Plus gopher tortoises and sub-tropical fish
Destinations
Egmont Key & Anna Maria
Historic Fort Dade and island waters
Select a 2–8 hour trip or private charter and secure a date for snorkels, wildlife viewing, or historic island exploration.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
To protect marine life while snorkeling, opt for eco-friendly sunscreen that won’t harm coral or fish.
Wear water shoes
Rocky and uneven terrain at the snorkeling sites and island trails make sturdy water shoes a smart choice.
Pack light and secure belongings
Space is limited on boats and island walks; bring a small dry bag to keep valuables safe and hands free.
Arrive early for calm waters
Morning departures usually provide smoother seas, enhancing snorkeling safety and visibility.
Snorkel gear
Essential for diving into the submerged ruins and observing marine life up close.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and prevents harm to coral reefs and aquatic ecosystems.
summer
Water shoes
Provides grip on slippery surfaces and protection from sharp objects in water and on land.
Light dry bag
Keeps valuables dry and secure while snorkeling and moving between boat and island.