Guided by Ali! Ten Thousand Islands Boat Shelling Tours!
colorful vibrant seashells collected on tour with SWFL Shell Guide
Where will you display the prizes you collect on tour with SWFL Shell Guide?
Guided by Ali! Ten Thousand Islands Boat Shelling Tours!
GUIDED
SHELLING
BOAT TOUR
10K ISLANDS
4hr shared
Hop aboard a comfortable boat with a licensed local captain and set off on a fast-paced shellventure into the stunning Ten Thousand Islands near Marco Island, FL! We’ll cruise through scenic mangroves to reach a remote shelling destination—usually Kice Island or a hidden sand flat—chosen based on the season, tides, and recent conditions. You’ll spend several hours beachcombing for treasures like tulips, conchs, whelks, olives, and even the elusive Junonia.
This 4-hour adventure includes about 15 minutes of boat travel each way and is packed with active shelling. Be prepared to walk, wade, rake, dig, and explore alongside Ali, your Shell Guide, who will help you spot and identify your best finds. Wildlife sightings like dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds often add extra magic along the way.
Tours typically explore one island but may include a second stop if time and conditions allow. This is a physically demanding outing, best suited for adventurous shellers ready to work for their haul.
Every tour is its own unique experience—book yours today and discover the wild beauty and shelling allure of the Ten Thousand Islands!
LAUNCH LOCATION
& PROCEDURE
All boat tours to the 10k Islands all launch from:
Goodland Boat Park
750 Palm Point Drive, Goodland, FL 34140
(Restrooms and Ships Store on site. No showers or washdown stations)
Parking is EXTREMELY limited! We highly recommend carpooling, taking a taxi/uber, or arranging a drop-off at the park to avoid parking issues. If you drive, be sure to read the Goodland Parking Guide.
Check in with Ali at a table under the pavilion 15 minutes before launch; you'll receive your complimentary shell bags and any pre-purchased merchandise there. Everyone will walk down the ramp to board the boat together no later than the scheduled launch time.
Important Note for Afternoon Tours:
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Parking is usually not an issue after 3pm
WHAT TO expect & BRING
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PHONE (REQUIRED)
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WATER
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LONG-SLEEVE WATER SHIRT
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WATER SHOES
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DRY BAG FOR PHONE/KEYS
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SUNSCREEN
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SUNGLASSES
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HAT
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PREFERRED FOOD/SNACKS
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PLASTIC CONTAINER FOR FRAGILE FINDS
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TOWEL
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CAMERA FOR PICS
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CASH TIP FOR CAPTAIN/CREW
A little prep goes a long way! Here’s what to keep in mind before your tour:
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Hydrate in advance! I’ll provide two water bottles per guest, but it may not be enough, especially if it heats up quickly. Bring a large water bottle if you can carry it to stay ahead of dehydration.
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Sun Protection! There’s no shade on the island or sand flats, so pack plenty of sun protection—sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, or even an umbrella to create your own shade.
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Footwear matters! Closed-toed shoes with sturdy soles are a must—no flip-flops or Crocs. The terrain can be rugged, with sharp shells, tree roots, and slippery muck. Whether on Kice Island or sand flats, you'll need well-fitted, broken-in shoes to prevent blisters.
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Shelling Gear! Tools aren’t necessary, but feel free to bring your favorites (scoopers, rakes, snorkels, etc.). A long-handle shell scooper can be handy to avoid bending down repeatedly.
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Bug Protection! Noseeums and mosquitoes can be an issue, especially near shell piles during early mornings or near sunset. Bring bug spray and consider wearing lightweight, long-sleeved clothing.
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Be ready to hike! We might cover a few miles over different terrains, with possible island hopping. Travel light, as you'll need to carry your belongings, and the boat won't have extra room for storage after we disembark.
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Small Towel! A small microfiber towel packs easily and dries quickly. Can be a blanket on cold winter boat rides, and can keep you from sitting on hot boat seats in summer.
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Pack lite! Only bring what you can comfortably carry. Anything unnecessary should stay in your car.
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Bring your phone! It’s required to stay reachable in case you need to contact Ali or the Captain—or vice versa.
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Consider tipping! Tipping the captain is optional but appreciated. If you pre-tipped online, it's been received—thank you!
Check out a few of my fav shelling gear, tools, products, and displays listed HERE! (Not necessary to bring with you, but helpful if you wish to purchase your own or to know where I got mine!)
WHAT YOUR GUIDE PROVIDES
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WATER BOTTLES
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PEANUT BUTTER CRACKERS, FRUIT GUMMIES, RICE KRISPY TREATS
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SOUVENIR SHELLING BAG
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SEASHELL STICKERS & ID CARD
You'll be given a mesh shelling bag to collect any beachcombing finds you wish to keep!
(Collect only empty shells!)
KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK:
OTHER GOOD TO KNOW STUFF:
