2 Hour Dolphin, Birding and Shelling Tour

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Overview

Available languages

English

2 hours

Mobile ticket

Not only will you be introduced to the great birding and wildlife in the area by your naturalists guide, you will also learn about the eco-systems, it rich heritage and long history.

Our tours are never "canned", so each tour is different. The area's wildlife move around in order to exist in their world and so must we. Many species are seasonal and inhabit different areas in different environmental conditions, so too, we must be able to adapt. Bring your cameras, binoculars, snacks, favorite drinks, hats, sunglasses and have a great time!!

Visit an uninhabited barrier island beach to collect shells, sand dollars and other treasures!

Note: June through October, we suggest the morning experiences due to the weather.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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

1

Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge

In comfortable captain's style seating an, you will be safely brought deep into the 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge for an interpretive tour of the area led by a Florida Master Naturalist. Depending on the season, you can expect to encounter manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, bald eagles, ospreys, herons, egrets, pelicans, rosette spoonbills, as well as, numerous species of fish and shore birds as well as the opportunity to find amazing shells.

2 hours • Admission Not Applicable
2

Marco Island

Marco Island is the largest the 10,000 Islands and the most developed

Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Dolphin, Birding and Shelling tour

Bottled water

Gratuities

The Goodland Boat Park charges a $10 parking fee. FREE parking is available outside the gate.

Options

2 Hour Dolphin, Birding and Shelling Tour

Early Bird Special

Early Bird Special

Reviews

4.88

246 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

230
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  • Short boat ride. Many dolphin sightings! Lots of cool shells and sand dollars.

    Dream140203,,Jan 11, 2026

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    Amazing experience! Well worth it! Would’ve liked more time to shell but the dolphin encounter was awesome! Captain Ed and first mate Kim were great tour guides and knowledgeable. Great price! Would absolutely go again!

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  • Amazing adventure!

    JCS528,,Jan 7, 2026

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    Captain Mike and Kim were both amazing and very knowledgeable about the area and wildlife. Would do this again and would absolutely recommend to others. Great shelling, lots of dolphin activity, and an overall wonderful experience with family. ♥️

  • Amazing time with Kim & Mike!

    autumns2026,,Jan 2, 2026

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    Mike and Kim were the heart and soul of an absolutely exceptional tour. Their kindness was evident from the start, creating a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, but it was their profound knowledge that truly captivated us. They didn't just point out shells; they animated the entire area surrounding the beaches. With infectious enthusiasm, they shared the fascinating stories behind each unique find, explaining the creatures that called them home. Their expertise seamlessly expanded to the surrounding dunes and vegetation, turning a simple ride into a rich lesson in local ecology. Without a doubt, this immersive and educational adventure was the highlight of our entire day—an experience we'll cherish and recommend wholeheartedly.

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  • Great experience

    Becket B,,Jan 2, 2026

    - Review from Viator

    5.00

    Very informative! The first mate was exceptional! We saw quite a few dolphins! I would definitely go again!

  • Great memories made

    Daniel B,,Dec 24, 2025

    - Review from Viator

    5.00

    Ray was an amazing guide. He shared awesome facts, made sure we got close ups of dolphins, and made the ride as smooth as possible!

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  • Wonderful excursion

    Nadine B,,Dec 22, 2025

    - Review from Viator

    5.00

    That was unique and wonderful! We have seen dolphins, white-tailed eagles, pelicans and much more! Absolutely worth it!!!

  • Nice 2hr Trip

    Erik C,,Sep 17, 2025

    - Review from Viator

    4.00

    Colt was very informative and a fine host. We enjoyed the visits to the secluded islands to gather shells.

  • Girls Trip Dolphin Tour

    Katherine H,,Jun 28, 2025

    - Review from Viator

    5.00

    Captain Ed and Jules were fantastic! They made sure we saw dolphins and our dolphins even gave us a show! We saw a manatee and hunted for and dollars. It took about 2 hours and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Would book again.

  • Great tour- the Operators were first class

    Gardengrl3,,Apr 30, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    We had an awesome time. Saw all kinds of birds and the captain explained a lot about the various birds. Then we saw a turtle! And then a manatee and then a dolphin. We watched a large male dolphin hunt and the captain explained how the dolphin goes in circles to stir up the silt so the fish can’t see but the dolphin has echo radar. Then the dolphin slapped his tail- to stun the fish. And then he had his meal. It was very interesting. Then we went to Dickinson island - a huge sand bar and island with nesting birds. There were a LOT of shells and they gave each of us a mesh bag and sent us shelling. We found lots of interesting shells. On the way back, Kim from Marco island tours, showed us all kinds of shells, told us the names and explained interesting facts. I would highly recommend!

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  • Do not pass up on this tour. You will be amazed

    C8619WZerinr,,Apr 30, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    We had a fabulous time. Captain Kevin was awesome he found us dolphins manatee and a sea turtle. Kim the first mate was a treasure with tons of knowledge about shells and shared with all of us different treasures and the backgrounds of each shell. Having Kim on board made the trip better than I expected.

From US$109.95

4.88
(246 reviews)