Do I need previous shelling experience?

No experience is necessary; all ages can enjoy searching for shells on the beach.

Is food and drink provided?

Hot cocoa and cookies are provided onboard, but you may want to bring additional snacks.

Can I take my own photos with Santa?

Guests may take photos on the boat and around the island but cannot take photos at the formal photo station with Santa to ensure professional images.

What is the cancellation policy?

Please check directly with Odyssey Cruises; cancellation details were not provided.

Are children allowed on this cruise?

Yes, this family-friendly cruise is designed to accommodate children and adults alike.

Is the island preserved as a natural area?

Yes, Anclote Key is part of a state preserve focused on protecting its natural environment.

Shelling with Santa: A Festive Holiday Cruise to Anclote Key Beach | Events | Boat Tour

Located just off the Gulf Coast of Florida, Anclote Key offers a rare untouched barrier island experience accessible only by boat. This holiday season, the Shelling with Santa cruise invites families and adventurers alike to embark on a 2.5-hour festive journey from Tarpon Springs, FL, aboard the Odyssey II. What sets this experience apart is its lively blend of seasonal cheer and natural beachcombing, making it a standout option for holiday travelers seeking both outdoor fun and holiday magic. The trip begins at 776 Dodecanese Blvd., where guests board the Odyssey II for a scenic cruise through Tampa Bay waters towards Anclote Key. Upon arrival, participants have a full 90 minutes to explore the pristine beach, a well-known spot for shell lovers eager to collect rare and colorful shells deposited by Gulf currents. The beach’s soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters are perfect for kids and adults to uncover unique natural treasures. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus are the heart of the celebration, spending quality time with guests, posing for photos, and heightening the holiday spirit in a relaxed outdoor setting. Hot cocoa and cookies accompany the event, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere against the mild winter sun. For families eager to capture these moments, a professional photographer is available for a special photo package, offering lasting keepsakes without the hassle of DIY snapshots. Anclote Key itself is a gem within Florida’s coastal ecosystem, known for its natural dunes, maritime forests, and bird nesting areas. The island is part of the Anclote Key Preserve State Park, emphasizing conservation and minimal development, which allows visitors to enjoy a truly natural environment. This environmental sensitivity combined with the festive event makes it a unique holiday destination unlike any other beach outing. Whether you’re local to Tarpon Springs or visiting from afar, Shelling with Santa offers a memorable way to connect with nature and holiday traditions. It’s perfectly suited for families with children, nature lovers, and those looking for an active yet festive way to celebrate the season. With limited photo sessions and timed arrival for formal photos, guests can expect a well-organized and intimate experience that feels both special and exclusive.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2.5 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels; most walking is flat on the beach and boat decks.

Wildlife

Gulf Coast shorebirds like terns and sandpipers
Marine life including playful dolphins often seen offshore

History

Anclote Key Preserve State Park was established to protect one of the last undisturbed barrier islands on Florida's Gulf coast, offering critical habitat for nesting birds and native flora.

Conservation

Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment by leaving shells and marine life undisturbed and carrying out all trash to help maintain the island's pristine condition.

Odyssey Cruises operates guided boat tours and island experiences centered on Anclote River and Anclote Key in the Tampa Bay area. The company offers a range of cruises from short one-hour river excursions to multi-hour island drop-offs, all focused on wildlife viewing, shelling, and scenic coastal landscapes. Trips include the Island Time Tour with a 40-foot Sightseer drop-off and 3–4 hours on Anclote Key beach; a one-hour River Cruise led by a Master Naturalist; a two-hour Dolphin & Shelling Adventure Island Cruise combining river narration and a beach visit; a Sunset Cruise variant that runs two hours and includes sunset viewing; and a seasonal Shelling with Santa holiday cruise featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus and extended beach time. Odyssey Cruises emphasizes naturalist-led interpretation for wildlife spotting, including dolphins, sea turtles, and local birdlife, and provides onboard beverages and restroom access on select trips. Guests are encouraged to bring swim gear, snacks, and cameras for photography opportunities and shell collecting. The company’s itineraries consistently call out Anclote Lighthouse views and the Gulf of Mexico as key highlights. Reservations accommodate families, photographers, and nature lovers seeking a mix of relaxation and education. Because each trip description specifies exact amenities and durations, potential visitors can choose an experience that matches their interests. Odyssey Cruises presents clear, factual trip summaries, naturalist-guided interpretation, and dedicated beach stops to create memorable coastal outings. Vessels include a 40-foot Sightseer for island drop-offs, plus boats designed for river cruising, with restroom access and onboard beverages, and photography opportunities.

Base locationTarpon Springs, Florida

Tours offered5+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace

My Trip

My Trip

Shelling with Santa: A Festive Holiday Cruise to Anclote Key Beach

A full day in Tarpon Springs.

More experiences with Odyssey Cruises