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
370 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Girl trip experience
samantha f,,Feb 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Would definitely recommend water shoes! Also there is parking right across the street for cheap but they don’t mention it until you’re already there. They also don’t provide a bag for the many shells you’ll get. Very cute that they turn your shell treasures into necklaces tho. We loved the adventure and the tour guides were sweet
Fun in the sun!
Togakate316,,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fun 3 hour tour with Mike and Nick. Beautiful weather and an all around great cruise with dolphin sightings and comical narations!
Highlight activity of our trip to Indian rocks beach
chrashley,,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was easy to locate, and from the very beginning, there was a kind of fun and hospitality that made for a great trip from the beginning. Our captain was super funny, very informative, and even included some dolphin interactions in the journey to the island. We had just enough time at the island. The only thing missing were the little shell bags as they were out of stock. Even though the boat was filled to capacity, everything felt safe and spacious, and we love the fact that there was an offering to make necklaces out of the shells, surprise surprise!
Great day
sharon K,,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Surprises along the way. Great communication. Water shoes would have helped in some areas. Captain and crew were so good. Nick and Mike should take their show on the road! So personable!
Awesome day
keithfO7949PI,,Feb 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great way to get out in the water and see sea life and go shelling on a guided tour. Very relaxed experience with really friendly crew. Shelling there was awesome. Afterwards, John’s Pass has shopping, food, drinks, and live music. We had a blast. Would highly recommend!
Such a fun boat ride...
Dawn B,,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Such a fun boat ride Robin was full of information and Leah was soo sweet to make necklaces from shells will do this again
Shell island
Kathleen Y,,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was amazing! Capt robin and Leah were awesome. Recommend highly. Family friendly and pace was great.
Must do!
Adina W,,Feb 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Awesome time, beautiful island and saw dolphins! Captain Mike and Lea were so fun! Don’t miss this one!
Fun day
Angela H,,Feb 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Beautiful experience. Captain took special efforts to show us dolphins, as well as history about the area.
Shell tour
Q2565QLevam,,Feb 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Nick and Mike did a great job! Would recommend this tour to everyone!
From US$44.95
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Hubbard's Marina