Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass
Overview
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Our 3hr Shell Key Shelling Trip is offered from Hubbard’s Marina inside Johns Pass and offers around one hour on the island exploring and shelling with around an hour ride down the back protected bay waters on a relaxing, safe, and fun trip onboard the HUB Cat 49.
On the ride back to Johns Pass, we will cruise up our beautiful gulf beaches when weather allows, if it’s a little bumpy the ride back will also be in the back protected bay waters.
We will often spot dolphins, seabirds, manatees and other wildlife on the ride out and back!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Tierra Verde
Explore Shell Key Preserve, located in the mouth of Tampa Bay, a 195 acre barrier Island. You will experience beautiful, calm and protected back bay waters and spot dolphins, seabirds, manatees and other wildlife on the trip.
John's Pass Village & Boardwalk
The "Pass", as locals refer to it, was created by a hurricane on September 27, 1848. A pirate, John Levique, made the first passage through the newly created pass. Hence the name, Johns Pass. Over one hundred merchants with unique retail shopping, a variety of restaurants and local tour operators.
What‘s Included
Restroom on board
Gratuities
Snacks
Parking Fees
Options
Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass
Reviews
334 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great time!
Kristine M,,Nov 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Had a lot of fun looking for shells and even found a couple whole sand dollars!!! Highly recommended!
Sisters
Sharon O,,Nov 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Expect an excellent time looking at local homes, walking the beach, then following the coastline back. The crew were friendly and informative. The bonus is a necklace made from one of your shells.
Great shelling cruise
Patty H,,Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a great! Mike and Morgan were great! There is cruise itself was enjoyable, with dolphins swimming around us in the wake of the boat! We collected sooo many shells! The beach definitely delivered! There is a bathroom on the boat. However, the door does not stay shut, even when locked! A kind lady held the door for me after a “bump” sent it wide open! All in all, it was a great experience for us!
Shell of a good time!!
dennishC8219TN,,Nov 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mike and Morgan did a fantastic job crewing us over to Shell island! We found more shells than we’ve ever seen. They pointed out all the dolphins and were great tour guides.
Great adventure
Raymond T,,Nov 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was very enjoyable and relaxing. Plenty of time to look for shells and you could go out on your own with no worries. Thank you Captain Mike and mate Brandy.
Fantastic shelling and dolphin watching!!!
154gingera,,Nov 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a fantastic time! The shelling was great, and we were lucky enough to see lots of dolphins up close. Mike and Nick were excellent tour guides—friendly, fun, and incredibly knowledgeable. Their passion and expertise really made the experience memorable. Highly recommend!
Great trip- Do it!
christiner03255,,Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The ferry ride over to Shell Key was pleasant, and we saw dolphins. Upon arrival and disembarking, it was obvious the shelling would be fantastic. Shell beds along the strand line as far as you can see, and not a lot of people.There is a huge variety of shells, and I found a small horse conch, banded tulips, sand dollars, spiral murex, whelks, olives, coral, and more. It helps to be picky about what you keep, since there are so many treasures! The guides, Nate and Mike were informative and friendly, and Nate made holes in some of my smaller shells for necklaces- a complimentary thing they offer on the boat on the way back! Fun day. Would highly recommend!
Wonderful day on the...
Irene R,,Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Wonderful day on the water and shelling! The boat crew was very knowledgeable and helpful! Highly recommend!
Book this one!
Angela P,,Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience. The island is gorgeous, lots of beautiful shells, plenty of room to explore without being right on top of other people. Mike and Nick did a great job getting us there safely, telling fun stories, pointing out attractions along the way, and making sure everyone on board had an opportunity to see any dolphins along the way. Great way to spend a few hours. Highly recommend.
Na
Charles R,,Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Robin and Brandy were wonderful! We had a beautiful day and they were great guides. Loved the playlist!
From US$44.95
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Operated by Hubbard's Marina