We also often see manatees. Manatees can be seen if conditions permit. However, we prefer passive observation so that they are not tempted to approach us.
Additionally, we often see manatees. If conditions allow, you may enter the water near manatees, but we practice passive observation and never approach them.
There are many species we see, including starfish, sanddollars bay scallops, whelks conchs upto 21" long, seahorses urchins and hermit crabs. These animals can be brought up to the surface, handled gently, and photographed. We bring large containers so that snorkelers, as well as non-snorkelers, can get close to the animals before they're released into the bay. The shells of non-living creatures can be taken home.
If conditions allow, guests are welcome to get in the water when dolphins are nearby. Safety is always our first priority, and your captain will instruct you how to safely snorkel around marine mammals.
You will go in the water before the dolphins arrive. You will attract the dolphins towards you, and they'll become curious. Dolphins can be finicky so we need to pretend that they aren’t there.
The dolphin and island tours to Shell Island allow you to see dolphins in their natural habitat. Here you can explore the beach, find shells, swim, wade and snorkel in the protected waters. You will also see a wide range of marine life.
There can be no more than 6 people (including children) per boat, as per Coast Guard regulations. The Family Cruiser has a maximum of 13 passengers.
Be your own guide and rent a pontoon boat for the day! For visitors who would like to captain their own vessel, we have pontoon boats available for rent. You will receive our Map with directions of our favorite snorkeling locations, sandbars, common dolphin areas, and more.
A wide range of birds can be found out on the water. This includes raptors such bald eagles, ospreys and shorebirds such great blue herons, egrets and seabirds such stunning frigatebirds and even terns. You may also see deer at the island.
You and your group will get into the water before the dolphins get there. In this manner, the dolphins will get curious and instead of swimming away, they’ll be drawn towards us. Considering the dolphins are wild animals, the best way to arouse their curiosity is to act uninterested in them. You can relate this to people who only seem to get interested in someone they are dating when that person shows the least indication of caring. Mom can explain this phenomena to you easily, because this is likely how she met your dad.
“We had so much fun today swimming with the dolphins, snorkeling, and playing on Shell Island! I would highly recommend this company. This was the highlight of our vacation.” – Christy
We also visit Shell Island on our dolphin and island tour. This is where you can swim, fish, dive, search for shells and, if the conditions are right, snorkel in the clear, protected waters to see a variety of marine life.
Your captain will meet you at the snorkeling spot and take you into the water. He will show you how to identify seashells and other marine life. You can choose how you want to spend your tour time, so it will be exactly what you envisioned.
Our Dolphin & Island Tours last approximately 3 hours. Seasonally, departure times may vary. We currently leave the dock at 9:00 am and 12:30 pm.
It's all worth it once you get there because the water is the most beautiful I've ever seen. The water is so clear that it feels like you're swimming in a pool. We had no idea what to expect, so we went with the intention of spending a few hours on the island. Come prepared to spend the entire day!
Dolphins, loggerhead turtles, green sea turtles, ghost crabs, beach mice, nine-banded armadillos, alligators that live in the island's lake, marsh rabbits, racoons, and other wildlife can be found on Shell Island.
Wear nothing but a swimsuit. Dolphins have extremely sensitive skin, and because you will be able to touch them during your interaction, we recommend that you refrain from wearing sunscreen, oils, or perfumes.