Explore Shell Key’s pristine beaches and vibrant marine life on a three-hour deck boat sailing experience from Treasure Island, Florida. Discover unique shells and enjoy the peaceful Gulf waters on this unforgettable trip.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels given the gentle boat ride and light walking on sandy terrain.
Wildlife
History
Shell Key was historically used by indigenous communities and later by fishermen, with conservation efforts preserving its natural state today.
Conservation
Shell Key is part of a protected wildlife refuge, with strong emphasis on minimizing human impact to preserve nesting habitats and water quality.
Suncoast Sailing
Explore Shell Key’s pristine beaches and vibrant marine life on a three-hour deck boat sailing experience from Treasure Island, Florida. Discover unique shells and enjoy the peaceful Gulf waters on this unforgettable trip.
Suncoast Sailing is a Treasure Island, Florida-based charter operator offering public and private boat experiences on Boca Ciega Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The company operates multiple tailored trips including the John's Pass Sandbar Experience (individual tickets), a private John's Pass Sandbar cruise, Shell Key deck boat adventures, day sailing aboard the gaff-rigged schooner Suncoast Horizon, and private day sails aboard both the Suncoast Horizon and the Suncoast Escapade.
Trips range from roughly two to three hours, with three-hour excursions to the sandbar and Shell Key and 2–2.5 hour sailing options in Boca Ciega Bay and the Gulf. On sandbar and deck boat outings, guests can swim, explore pristine beaches, and use paddle boards and kayaks when available. Sailing cruises highlight the Suncoast Horizon as the only gaff-rigged schooner operating in Tampa Bay and offer opportunities to view Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and local marine life.
Amenities and policies include complimentary bottled water on select sailing trips, the option to bring personal beverages, onboard coolers, and restroom facilities. Experiences accommodate both individual ticket bookings and fully private charters for groups seeking a dedicated boat outing. Suncoast Sailing is presented on The Adventure Collective and provides clearly described itineraries and vessel types. Booking options include individual tickets and private charters suitable for families, groups, bachelor parties, and special events, with flexible schedules depending on seasonal availability. Local pickup and drop-off available.
Location
Treasure Island, FL
Departures from Treasure Island
Unique Vessel
Gaff‑rigged schooner
Only gaff rig in Tampa Bay
Trip Lengths
2–3 hours
Short, scenic coastal excursions
Water Activities
Paddleboards & Kayaks
Available on sandbar trips
Book individual tickets or private charters for John's Pass sandbar, Shell Key, and day sails aboard the Suncoast Horizon and Suncoast Escapade.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin without harming marine life by using reef-safe sunscreen during your trip.
Pack Light Footwear
Wear comfortable sandals or water shoes to easily walk on sandy and sometimes rocky shorelines.
Stay Hydrated
Bring a refillable water bottle to keep hydrated, especially when spending time in the sun on the boat and beach.
Secure Your Valuables
Use waterproof bags and keep electronics safe from water splashes during the boat ride.
Reef-safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin while preserving marine ecosystems around Shell Key.
summer
Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated during the sunny boat ride and beach exploration.
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare from the water and enhances your view of the marine environment.
Waterproof Phone Case
Keeps your phone safe from splashes during the trip on the deck boat.