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I totally understand how frustrating it can be when you're excited to join a tour, but something in the booking process seems to be blocking your path. Here are the most common reasons guests get stuck and how to fix them: 1. Confused by the “Member ID” Field? No worries! The first screen of the booking system includes a space to enter a “Member ID.” This is only  for guests who have joined our Seasoned Sheller Membership Program  and have a discount code. You do not need a Member ID to book a tour. If you're not a member, just skip that field and move forward! 2. Can't find the “Continue” button on your phone? Sometimes the “Continue” or “Next” button doesn’t display correctly on mobile devices, especially in portrait mode. Try turning your phone sideways into landscape mode —this often reveals the missing button and allows you to proceed. 3. Party Size might be it. Some tours require a minimum number of guests before they can run. If the booking system isn’t allowing you to reserve your seats, it may be because that tour needs a certain group size to make the first  booking. Once that initial group meets the minimum requirement, the remaining seats will open up to any party size — including solo shellers. So if you don’t see availability right away, keep checking back! Guided tours are given priority on the schedule. You may see an Unguided tour listed for the same date, but smaller groups won’t be able to book it until the Guided tour reaches its minimum or fills up. All shared tours are limited to 6 guests per boat  due to U.S. Coast Guard regulations. To keep tours running efficiently, the booking system will not split guests into two smaller groups on the same date if they could be combined into one full boat. For example, even if you see 6 seats open on the Unguided tour and 2 seats open on the Guided tour, the system will prioritize filling the Guided tour first. Once that tour fills, the Unguided option becomes available for smaller parties. This helps prevent half-filled boats from running side-by-side when everyone could enjoy one fun, full shared experience together. Trying to book 2 seats but only see 1 left? Unfortunately, we are not able to increase the guest count beyond 6 due to U.S. Coast Guard regulations. If the system shows only 1 seat left, that means there truly is only 1 available. You can either wait to see if someone cancels, or look for another date with 2 or more seats open. We totally get that it's more fun with a friend - hopefully, you can both join on another day! 4. Missed a checkbox or skipped a question? Every checkbox and question on the booking form is required.  These are there to make sure you understand important safety info, waiver terms, and trip details. Double-check that you’ve checked every box  and entered answers  in all required fields before clicking “Continue.” 5. Still stuck? It might be a tech hiccup. If none of the above tips work, try: Refreshing the page Switching to a different browser (Chrome works great) Booking from a desktop or tablet instead of a phone Clearing your cache or trying in incognito/private mode 6. Waiting on Confirmation? Here's How It Works Once you complete your online booking request, you’ll receive an automated email  letting you know that a hold has been placed on your credit card - but you haven’t been charged just yet. Ali manually reviews and approves each booking. Once your tour is confirmed, your card will be charged, and you’ll receive a second email with your official booking confirmation . Please be patient! If Ali is out on the water guiding tours, she may not be able to review bookings right away. It can sometimes take 1–2 days  for approval, especially during busy weeks. Thanks for your understanding! If you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to reach out ! I’m happy to help guide you through the process or manually reserve your spot if needed. Email or text is the fastest way to get a response. I can’t wait to sea you out there! 🐚⛵

Florida might sound  warmer than home on the forecast - “48°F!”- but trust us… Florida-cold hits different when you’re out on a boat, in the water standing in tidal flats, and dipping your hands in the chilly ocean snatching up those shells. For folks from the North, cold here doesn’t mean snow and ice, but the wind off the water, wet feet, and cold hands can make it feel  like it goes straight to your bones. Here’s how to layer up and stay warm on tour, even when temps drop. The Reality of “Florida Cold” It’s not blizzards. It’s cold wind + cold water + Humidity - and that chill is hard to kill! Dress for: The boat ride Standing in water Wet + windy conditions and you’ll be comfortable, focused, and still excited about that next amazing shell instead of just trying to survive the cold! 1. The Cold Boat Ride — This Is Where People Get Shocked Even if the air temp doesn’t look terrible, the boat ride is usually the coldest part of the day . You’re: Moving fast Surrounded by open water Getting hit with wind + occasional spray Sitting still (not generating body heat) That combo = wind chill that cuts right through you . What to Wear on the Boat (Even If You Take It Off Later) Windproof outer layer (CRUCIAL) - A light hoodie is not enough. You want something that blocks wind: Waterproof or windproof shell jacket Rain jacket (even if it’s not raining) Packable puffer under a shell on very cold days 👉 Search on Amazon: “packable windproof rain jacket men”  or “women’s waterproof shell jacket” Beanie or insulated headband - You lose a lot of heat from your head, especially in wind. 👉 Search: “fleece beanie”  or “thermal ear warmer headband” Neck gaiter / buff / scarf - This is a game changer on the boat. Pull it up over your chin and cheeks when the wind hits. 👉 Search: “fleece neck gaiter” Gloves or hand warmers for the boat ride (separate from shelling gloves) - Even basic insulated gloves make the ride way more comfortable. Rechargeable hand warmers work great too! 👉 Search: “insulated waterproof winter gloves” Kinco HydroFlector gloves (sold at Rural King, Tractor Supply, Walmart, etc) are the best gloves I've found for cold weather shelling, as they are high-performance, water-resistant, and thermal - designed for cold, wet conditions. Pro tip:  You might peel layers off once you’re walking and shelling - but you’ll want them again on the ride back. 2. Layer Your Clothing - The Key to Staying Warm Start with thermal base layers that keep your core warm without bulk: Men Under Armour Men's ColdGear Leggings  – Great thermal base layer for cold days on the water. (Also consider a wool or synthetic long-sleeve top underneath your layer.) Women Under Armour Women's Authentics Leggings  – Warm and moisture-wicking. 90 Degree by Reflex Cold‑Gear Fleece‑Lined Leggings  or Baleaf Cold Weather Leggings  – Excellent budget-friendly insulation. For a luxury option: Frost Duralite Women's Merino Wool Thermal Leggings  keeps you cozy even in really  brisk weather. Tip:  Avoid cotton - it traps moisture and chills you faster. Go for synthetics or wool blends instead. 3. Footwear & Socks - Critical for Cold Water Shelling Feet get cold fast when wet, and regular shoes just aren’t enough. Pair insulation with water resistance: Stormr Heavyweight Neoprene Socks  – Great neoprene insulation layer for cold water. Bare Exowear Socks  – Premium thermal socks if you need serious warmth under boots. Yikayin Neoprene Socks  or CAPAS 2mm Neoprene Water Socks  – Budget neoprene options that add warmth and grip. omgear 3mm Neoprene Water Socks  – A slightly thicker sock-style neoprene bootie. Cold-water footwear tip:  Traditional hiking boots or sneakers will get soaked and chill you faster. Neoprene booties or waterproof water-sport socks trap heat better and dry quickly. For deeper water or longer exposure, a full neoprene boot (5mm+) with a sole gives even  more warmth and traction on wet sand/rocks. 4. Gloves - Protect Your Extremities Cold hands make shelling painful. Regular gloves won’t cut it when wet, so aim for insulated, waterproof options: Kinco HydroFlector  gloves (sold at Rural King, Tractor Supply, Walmart, etc) are the best gloves I've found for cold weather shelling, as they are high-performance, water-resistant AND thermal - designed for cold, wet conditions. Gounod Thermal Insulated Cold Weather Gloves  – Great affordable pair for anyone. Toolant Waterproof Winter Work Gloves  – Warm waterproof insulated gloves. 3M Winter Gloves  – Thinsulate lining for extra warmth. Re-chargeable Hand Warmers Cold-water hand hack:  Consider waterproof  gloves or even neoprene dive gloves for shelling. Better yet, bring a long shell scoop  so you’re not dipping bare hands in cold water as often! 5. Head & Neck Warmth - Don’t Forget Them A hat can make all the difference: Winter Balaclava Face Mask  – Covers head and  neck. Ski Mask Balaclava  – Great value insulated cap with mask. M‑Tac Watch Cap Elite Fleece  – Simple fleece beanie that blocks wind. Keeping heat from escaping your head helps your whole body  stay warmer. 6. Other Warmth Tips for Shelling Tours Bring a Shell Scoop or Tongs Putting your hands in cold water repeatedly is going to be painful. A shell scoop, tongs, or waterproof gloves help you collect shells without constant cold exposure. Add Warm Layers Bring an insulated jacket or fleece for pre- and post-tour warmth. A windbreaker  over layers can block that chilly water breeze without overheating you. Pack a Thermos Hot coffee, tea, or cocoa before (or after!) your tour helps your core temperature feel toasty. Warm Towels & Changing Layers Have a dry towel and dry base layers ready for after the tour - once you’re wet, changing into warmth fast prevents chills. 7. Cold Water Keeps Draining Your Body Heat Even if you “feel fine,” standing in cool water slowly pulls warmth from your body. That’s why people suddenly feel frozen after 30–60 minutes. To slow heat loss: Wear neoprene on your feet Regular sneakers + cotton socks = cold misery. Neoprene traps a thin layer of water that your body warms - way better than soaked fabric. Best options: Neoprene booties (like wetsuit material) Neoprene water socks under sturdy water shoes 👉 Search: "3mm neoprene dive boots” or “neoprene water socks” Don’t keep dunking bare hands Cold water + wind = painful fast. Bring: Waterproof or neoprene gloves or A shell scoop / sand scoop so your hands aren’t in the water constantly 👉 Search: “long handle sand scoop” 8. THE AFTER-TOUR WARM-UP PLAN (People Forget This!) You might be fine during the tour… but once you stop moving, that cold hits hard. Plan your car like a warming station. Leave These in Your Car: Dry, thick socks - Putting on dry socks immediately feels AMAZING. 👉 Search: “merino wool hiking socks” Warm towel or blanket - Wrap your shoulders and legs as soon as you get back. 👉 Search: “fleece travel blanket” Dry base layer shirt - If your shirt got damp from spray or sweat, change fast. Slip-on warm shoes - Ugg-style, insulated slip-ons, or even thick-lined Crocs. Thermos with hot drink - Hot tea, coffee, or cocoa warms you from the inside. 👉 Search: “stainless steel insulated thermos” 9. Final Thoughts on Ways to Stay Warm Eat before the tour - Food = fuel = body heat. Avoid cotton - “Cotton kills” in cold conditions because it holds moisture. Choose: Wool Fleece Synthetic athletic fabrics Keep your core warm - Cold torso = cold everything. If your chest/back are warm, hands and feet stay warmer too. Chemical hand warmers (optional but awesome) - Toss them in jacket pockets for the boat ride. 👉 Search: “disposable hand warmers” Stay dry when possible - If waves splash you, zip up and block wind fast.

While you're here in SWFL check out some of my favorite other things to do (in no particular order): EATS Island Gypsy Cafe Shopping & Dining on 5th Ave S & 3rd St S LeeBe Fish Fin Bistro Best Gas Station Mexican Food: Uooligan Exxon Mobil at 861 Bald Eagle Dr on Marco NATURE Tigertail Beach Park Lowdermilk Beach Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens N aples Botanical Garden Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary Delnor Wiggins Pass State Park Koreshan State Historic Park   Kayak Estero River Python Hunting in Everglades Everglades National Park   Airboat Rides in the Everglades Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium Manatee Park Babcock Ranch Eco Tours Shark Tooth Hunting at Manasota Key   Fossil Hunting in the Peace River HISTORICAL Ted Smallwood Store Collier Museum at Government Center Museum of the Everglades Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch Coral Castle Skunk Ape Research Headquarter Ochopee Post Office Edison & Ford Winter Estates SHOPPING Shopping & Dining on 5th Ave S & 3rd St S Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum 41 South Gift Hut Shops at Naples Tin City Kelly's Shell Shack Lunch at Island Gypsy Visit the historic Naples Pier Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center Stan's Idle Hour in Goodland (Sunday Funday) Visit shops at Naples Tin City Kayak Estero River Corey Billie's Airboat Rides in Everglades Visit Ted Smallwood Store Museum Kelly's Shell Shack in Naples

Shop Ali’s top Amazon picks for shelling gear, guides, decor, and DIY supplies—handpicked by SWFL Shell Guide. SHELLING 'ESSENTSHELLS' FOR YOUR SHELL TOUR Apart from my own Seashell-designed merch in my SHOP , dive into the allure of the Ten Thousand Islands with my thoughtfully curated assortment of shelling "essentshells". Ranging from robust gear to handy accessories, these items are hand-picked to elevate your shelling expedition, ensuring you enjoy the utmost experience along the stunning shores of this breathtaking destination. * Full Disclosure: Paid links below. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. * Anti Chafe Stick Best anti-chafe balm! Hydration Backpack Stay Hydrated! Water Bottle - Stay Hydrated HydroFlask Collapsible Stool Foldable Bench Stool Lightweight Easy to Carry Waterproof Phone Box Watertight Phone Case Sand Dipper Shell Scoop Back-Saver! Heavy Duty Hand Rake Won't rust! Handheld Shelling Rake Won't Rust! Dive Booties Sand-proof and Nice Thick Sole! awesome water sneakers for shelling No laces means no tripping! Thick soles! Amazing Water Sneakers Supportive Soles! Noseeum Insect Head Netting Noseuems are the worst! Effective Bug Spray! Works against noseeums! NoSeeUm Spray! No Natz Kinda Helps with Noseeums! Bug Spray that works the best and smells good! Polarized Sunglasses - Won't Sink! Floating Sunglasses for Boating Polarized Quick Easy Shade Bring your own shade! Sun Hat with Built-In Fans Keeps you cool and keeps bugs off! Cooling Towels Gotta Stay Cool! Neck Fan Cooling Flexible Lightweight Cooling Personal Cooling Fan Keep Cool & Keeps Bugs off with a personal fan! Marine-Friendly Sunscreen Coral reef safe! Ice Bucket Underwater Viewer Has built-in handles! Works like a charm! Underwater Viewing Bucket Underwater Viewing Bucket AquaScope Underwater Viewer Aquascope Underwater Viewer Frameless Dive Mask Frameless Dive Mask Aloe Vera Gel Post Sunburn Aloe Gel Safe Shell Cleaning Safe Acid to Clean Shells Casual Skort Casual Skort Pocket Skort Pocket Skort No Teeth Here - Try Venice! Shark Tooth Sifter! SWFL SEASHELL IDENTIFICATION Embark on a journey of shell discovery in SWFL with this comprehensive collection of identification and classification tools. This curated Amazon product list includes field guides, magnifiers, and reference books designed to help you easily identify the diverse shells of Southwest Florida. Elevate your beachcombing experience by arming yourself with these informative resources, allowing you to unravel the mysteries of each unique shell you encounter along the sandy shores of Marco Island and Ten Thousand Islands. * Full Disclosure: Paid links below. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. * #1 Shell ID & Beachcombing Guide SWFL Shells ID Poster Beachcomber's Guide Beachcomber's Guide N American Shells 5 Star Review SHELL DISPLAY INSPIRATION Transform your space into a coastal haven with our curated collection of home decor items perfect for showcasing your cherished shell finds. From elegant display cases to stylish frames, each piece is designed to highlight the beauty of your beachcombing treasures and bring the serene essence of the shore into your home. Embrace the coastal charm and make your shell collection a stunning focal point in any room. * Full Disclosure: Paid links below. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. * Glass Bubble Vase Fill each Bubble with Mini Shells! Set of 2 Wood Tripod Stands Wood Tripod Stand for Large Shell 7 Tier Display Stand 7 Tier Display Stand 36 Grid Clear Mini Shell Display Box Acrylic Magnetic Seashell Display Box Multi-Tier Display Multi-Tier Display 4-Prong Clear Display Table Clear Acrylic 4-Prong Display Stand Glass Jewelry Box but for Shells Vintage Glass Jewelry Box but for Shells Apothecary Jar with Lid Lidded Apothecary Jar Glass Apothecary Jars w Shell Lids Set of Glass Apothecary Jars with Shell Lids! Nautical Rustic Mason Jar Rope Covered Jar! Filll with Seashells & Display Fillable Glass Table Lamp Fillable Glass Accent Lamp Glass Vase on Natural Wood Base Glass Vase on Natural Wood Base ShadowBox Coffee Table! Shadowbox Coffee Table 3D Floating Shell Display Cases Large Clam Shell (Plaster) Large Clam Shell (Plaster) Dockside Cocktail Table Nautical Rope Coffee Table 3d Floating Display Stand 3D Floating Display Case Lift Top Coffee Table Shell Display Coffee Table Glass Conch Bowl Glass Conch Bowl Open Shell Holder Display Open Shell Holder Display White Shadowbox Photo Frame White Shadowbox Photo Frame Square Sand Jar Keepsake Shadow Box Sand Jar Keepsake Shadow Box Keepsake Shell Shadow Box Wood & Glass Keepsake Display Box Shadowbox Frame Shell Display Happy Shell Shadowbox Frame Display Coastal Shadowbox Frame Shell Display Adjustable Display Case Adjustable Display Case Giant Clam Shell (Plaster) Giant Clam Shell (Plaster) Decoupage 'ESSENTSHELLS' These are the exact tools and materials I use and trust for making decoupaged seashells. From high-quality paint and sealants to the perfect rice paper and resin, these Amazon finds make it easy to get beautiful, lasting results at home. * Full Disclosure: Paid links below. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. * Rice Paper for Decoupage Won't jam in your printer White Primer Paint Needs 2 coats! Gold Paint Markers Perfect Gold leaf edges Epoxy Resin Hand Pumps make it easy to get equal amounts! Paint Brushes Perfect for paint, modpodge, and resin! Dremel Drill Bit Perfect Oyster Drilling Bit Organza Bags Packaging! Jewel Rhinestones Tiny sparkles! Flatback Pearls Easy to Glue on Pearls! Carrot Beads Perfect topper for Easter designs!

Save 15% on tours all year with the SWFL Shell Guide Membership! Just $80—pays for itself in 4 seats. Perfect for repeat shelling trips! BECOME A MEMBER SEASONED SHELLER DISCOUNT PROGRAM Love shelling with us? The new SWFL Shell Guide Membership is the perfect way to make your shellventures even more rewarding! For just $80, you'll get a 15% discount on all tour seats for an entire year from the date of purchase. That means if you book just four (4) seats in the course of one year, the membership pays for itself—anything beyond that is pure savings! How it works: Purchase your Membership online - click the Junonia image below. When booking a tour, enter your Membership ID or email address at checkout. Enjoy your discounted tours all year long! Whether you're a returning guest or planning multiple shellventures, this is the best way to save while shelling in paradise. Become a Seasoned Sheller Member today and make the most of every trip!

Get to know Ali, your SWFL Shell Guide—an experienced boat tour shelling host and passionate sheller who leads unforgettable shellventures through the Ten Thousand Islands Meet Your Guide mEET Ali Owner & Shell Guide | SWFL Shell Guide Ali is a born-and-raised Floridian with a lifelong love of the outdoors, salt air, and - most of all - seashells. Ali founded SWFL Shell Guide to share her love of the Gulf coast through guided seashell adventures, focusing on the most beautiful Naples Marco Island beaches. What began as a small kayak shelling tour business in 2019 has since evolved into something much bigger: SWFL Shell Guide now offers guided and unguided boat tours through the stunning Ten Thousand Islands, helping guests discover the best shelling spots in Southwest Florida. Ali launched SWFL Shell Guide to share her passion for shelling and the unique beauty of the 10k Islands. After the COVID-19 pandemic, interest in outdoor adventures skyrocketed, and the business thrived. But when Hurricane Ian struck in 2022, Collier County prohibited commercial access to Caxambas Boat Park, where her kayak tours launched. Rather than give up, Ali pivoted - transitioning from kayaks to boats and expanding the business while staying true to her roots. Today, Ali personally guides guests on curated shelling adventures by boat, using her deep local knowledge and sharp shell-spotting skills to help others find their own treasures. Whether you’re looking for rare finds like the elusive Junonia or just want to soak up the sun and natural beauty, Ali makes the experience both fun and unforgettable. When she’s not leading tours, Ali is often beachcombing, photographing sunsets, or designing seashell-themed gear for the SWFL Shell Guide shop. (She creates all the patterns and designs for all merch herself!) Her past life in family and real estate photography helped build the foundation - but nothing has ever felt more fulfilling than being a full-time shell guide and business owner.