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!
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
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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.
Bottled water
Driver/guide
Gratuities
Water
10,000 Islands N.W.R.
Boat
978 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Sightseer52866407397,,Jan 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We 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!
maryfI3593LZ,,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain 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!
notronald,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain 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!


Aurora N,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Two great guides, helped us find shells, made it a fun experience for everyone! They made sure everyone received shells, sand$’s
M6148BIlisas,,Jan 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Excellent experience, knowledgeable engaging captains great shells, dolphins and birds.
Constantine C,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Damon 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.


LauraM K,,Jan 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
Captain Glen gave a fun and educational boat ride. We’ve never seen so many dolphins up close. I would recommend this dolphin and shelling experience!
Beth C,,Jan 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain Glenn and First Mate Michelle were wonderful educators, explaining the region and ecosystem. We saw a bunch of dolphins and some osprey. Pulled up to a quiet beach filled with shells, and the kids got to pick a collection. Had a family of dolphins playing with us and following the boat on the way home. Well done, Captain Glenn and Michelle! Highly recommend!





NikkiOgden,,Dec 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain Glenn and his first mate Michelle were amazing! The tour was wonderful and they were so knowledgeable. We played with the dolphins and learned a lot about mangroves. I would highly recommend this excursion.
SBerver,,Dec 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Our guides were knowledgeable and entertaining. It was a particularly windy and cold day with not great shelling. We still had tons of fun, did find some neat smaller shells and enjoyed dolphins and manatees.
Operated by Eco Endeavors