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‘s Included
Restroom on board
Gratuities
Snacks
Parking Fees
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.
Options
Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass
Reviews
327 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
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!
Heaven
R83RCangier,
Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Omg I've done this tour 3 times and it never gets old! The captain and the other shipmate are amazing, I'm terrible with names, sorry! I see dolphins everytime. I absolutely LOVE this!!!
Great way to spend part of your day
Don A,
Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a wonderful, relaxing and informative cruise with Mike and Sonya. On the way to shell island in the gulf and on the way back via the intercoastal waterway we saw dolphins and manatees. The island did not disappoint. There were shells all over the beach. We did not go in the water but those who did found some large interesting shells. While there folks spotted a stingray, manatees and small sand sharks. It was well worth the money and if you get Mike and Sonya as your crew it’s a bonus!
Relaxing boat ride to a...
Christian B,
Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Relaxing boat ride to a beach filled to the brim with tons of shells, stopping to see wildlife to and from, the captains were amazing and very informative about the wildlife and the surrounding areas. Crazy views and a good time.
Excellent adventure
Nicole M,
Oct 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00What a great experience wonderful weather saw dolphins a manatee and a sting ray. Great staff they offered to make a shell necklace for us when we were returning. They offered snacks and drinks good music and education about the area. I had a wonderful time
Great quick getaway
252kristib,
Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a full boat! Water and weather was a perfect day. Captain Mike (loved the dad jokes) and Morgan were great hosts. Island was beautiful, water was clear, shells were everywhere! We saw baby hammerhead shark, lots of fish, stingrays, dolphins and birds. We would have enjoyed more time on the island but 3 hours out was perfect. Take snacks, drinks, a bag for shells, camera, and wear your swimsuit. Great for thw entire family!
Fun day
angelahU2838FF,
Oct 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a great time. Captain Mike and Morgan were very friendly and made the trip enjoyabale. I highly recommend. You won't regret it!
From $44.95
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Operated by Hubbard's Marina