Dolphin and Shelling Cruise for up to 12 people
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Experience the best of Marco Island’s waterways on Eco Endeavors’ Dolphin & Shelling Tour!
This 2.5-hour adventure takes you deep into the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, where you’ll spot dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds in their natural habitat.
Cruise through scenic mangrove channels before stopping at a secluded barrier island, only accessible by boat. Here, you’ll have time to explore pristine shores and search for rare seashells. Your expert captain will share insights about the area’s wildlife, history, and ecology, making this a fun and educational experience for all ages.
With small-group tours, shaded seating, and custom-built vessels, Eco Endeavors ensures comfort, safety, and an unforgettable adventure. Book now for a wildlife encounter and shelling experience like no other!
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Set off on an unforgettable journey through the wild, unspoiled beauty of the 10,000 Islands. As we weave through a labyrinth of mangrove waterways, your captain will be on the lookout for dolphins surfacing alongside the boat, manatees drifting through the shallows, and rare coastal birds gliding overhead. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of the region’s untamed past, its unique ecology, and the forces that have shaped this remarkable landscape. Then, we’ll touch down on a remote barrier island, a hidden gem only accessible by boat. Here, you’ll have time to explore the untouched shoreline, search for rare seashells, or simply take in the peaceful solitude of this pristine coastal escape. Whether you're after wildlife encounters, a bit of adventure, or the perfect shelling spot, this experience brings you face-to-face with the raw beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
What‘s Included
Bottled water
Driver/guide
Gratuities
Options
Ten Thousand Islands Adventure
Water
10,000 Islands N.W.R.
Boat
Reviews
982 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience
Swwm,,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00From the time we boarded the boat, we had a wonderful time. Our captain shared information that we found interesting. He spotted some dolphins and encouraged them to “play” with us. That was so much fun. The remote island we were taken to to do shelling was good also. The entire trip was a great experience.
10/10 excursion
506aubreer,,Feb 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00SO FUN! The captains were educated, interactive and playful! It felt like I was boating with instant friends. We saw a few pods of dolphins and went to a peaceful island to collect the most unique, beautiful shells I’d ever seen. If you’re looking for an affordable excursion, look no further! If I’m ever back in Marco Island again I’ll most definitely be booking with these guys again! So cool!
Highly recomend!
roberthL1204SG,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Capt. Glen was great, very informative and fun to be around. We gained an appreciation for the wildlife and history of the area.
Mangroves, and dolphins, and shells, oh my!
159saraho,,Feb 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We took this tour with Captain Glenn and first mate Michelle. Glenn gave a lot of history and I appreciated his belief that we have to know our history, good and bad, to avoid repeating mistakes. I thought the play with the dolphins was just that. When the first group didn't want to play, we moved on, and the second group had quite a lot of fun in our wake and delighted us. Michelle knew so much about the shells and wildlife on the beach, it was very educational. Couldn't recommend this tour more.
Must-Do Dolphin and Shelling Cruise in Marco Island
Sightseer52866407397,,Jan 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had such a great time on the Eco Endeavors Dolphin and Shelling cruise! Captain Damon was awesome! We saw so many dolphins, traveled to a beautiful island where we found amazing shells, and enjoyed a wonderfully relaxing boat ride around Marco Island. This is an absolute must-do!
Great experience
maryfI3593LZ,,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Captain Damon was awesome. We had a great time, saw dolphins, eagles and more! The boat had a tarp covering which many tour boats do not. Highly recommend!
Wonderful experience with Capt Clay!
notronald,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Captain Clay was amazing and this experience was a top highlight of the trip! We were able to get a ton of unique shells on a private island and saw at least 15 dolphins. He truly cares about the wildlife and gave us an awesome guide. The little bar was also a delicious spot after our ride. Highly recommend!
Bachelorette Trip
Aurora N,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Two great guides, helped us find shells, made it a fun experience for everyone! They made sure everyone received shells, sand$’s
Excellent
M6148BIlisas,,Jan 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent experience, knowledgeable engaging captains great shells, dolphins and birds.
Dolphins and birds
Constantine C,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Damon was an excellent guide. My wife and I were the only two passengers on that day so it felt very personalized. His knowledge of the local flora and fauna was excellent. We saw multiple dolphins and many interesting birds including a juvenile bald eagle. Overall, lovely.
From US$109.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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