Water Activities: Aquaterra Excursions Dolphin & Shelling Tour in the 10,000 Islands
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical activity required; suitable for all ages
Overview
Join Aquaterra Excursions for an unforgettable boat tour through the 10,000 Islands, filled with dolphins, birding, and pristine shells. Discover nature’s marine wonders in this engaging adventure.
PRIVATE Dolphin, Birding, and Shelling Tour
$450 • All ages • 2 Hours • Up to 6 guests
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on Marco's Best Dolphin and Shelling Tour for an unforgettable family adventure! Enjoy a naturalist-led boat ride through the stunning 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge, spotting dolphins, manatees, and diverse bird species. Conclude your journey by shelling on a pristine, uninhabited barrier island, discovering the beauty of nature firsthand.
Marco's Best Dolphin and Shelling Tour!
Rates
Private Boat (Up to 6 guests) - $450
Duration
2 Hours
About
Consisting of two parts, The Dolphin, Birding and Shelling Tour is a wonderful experience for the whole family and a great introduction to the area. First a dolphin tour to search for dolphins and wading birds on a naturalist-led boating tour. Then a shelling tour to explore an uninhabited barrier island. You will learn about the island's beach dynamics and collect some of the wonderful shells on these remote islands.
In comfortable captain's style seating an, you will be safely brought deep into the 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge for a two-hour interpretive tour of the area led by a Florida Master Naturalist. Depending on the season, you can expect to encounter manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, bald eagles, ospreys, herons, egrets, pelicans, rosette spoonbills, as well as, numerous species of fish and shore birds.
The entire Everglades area, including Everglades National Park and the 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge, is a wonderful place for wildlife, particularly manatees, dolphins, and wading birds. Marco Island is one of the largest and the western most of the 10,000 Islands. We will spend some time exploring and shelling on one of the other 9,999 Islands!
Adventure Tips
Bring binoculars and sunscreen
Enhance your wildlife viewing experience and stay protected from the sun during the tour.
Wear comfortable clothing and hats
Light, quick-drying clothes and hats will keep you comfortable on the boat and on the beach.
Limit movement during wildlife sightings
Stay quiet and still to give animals the best chance to approach and remain undisturbed.
Pack a small cooler for snacks and drinks
Keep hydrated and energized throughout the excursion with refreshments.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Dolphins
- Manatees
History
The 10,000 Islands area has been a vital wilderness for centuries, once inhabited by indigenous peoples and now protected as a vital habitat for Florida’s marine life.
Conservation
Aquaterra Excursions follows strict guidelines to minimize environmental impact, supporting local conservation efforts and promoting responsible tourism.
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Adventure Hotspots in Naples
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
Helps in spotting distant wildlife like dolphins, birds, and manatees.
Sun protective clothing
Keeps you protected from harmful UV rays during outdoor time.
Flip-flops or water shoes
Water shoes or flip-flops are ideal for shelling on the beach.
summer specific
Camera or smartphone with waterproof case
Capture stunning wildlife and landscape photos during the tour.