10,000 Islands Dolphin & Shelling Excursion from Goodland — 3.5-Hour Eco Boat Tour
Cruise the Ten Thousand Islands with a Master Naturalist on this 3.5-hour Goodland departure that pairs dolphin watching with guided shelling on an uninhabited barrier island. Expect intimate wildlife viewing, hands-on instruction, and a stable boat ideal for photos.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The sun reflects off the water; use reef-safe sunscreen to protect skin and the fragile marine environment.
Wear shoes that can get wet
You’ll step on wet sand and tidal flats—closed-toe water shoes or sandals with straps are best for comfort and protection.
Carry a refillable water bottle
Hydration is crucial, especially on the midday departure; there may not be shade during the island stop.
Arrive early to park and prep
Plan to be at Goodland Boat Park 20–25 minutes before departure to park, use restrooms, and meet the captain under the pavilion.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet mangrove channels behind the larger keys where shorebirds roost at high tide
- •Low-tide shell-lined ridges where Junonia and lightning whelk are often uncovered
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •West Indian manatee
Conservation Note
Much of the area lies within protected habitat and the tour operator emphasizes leave-no-trace shelling and reef-safe products to reduce impacts on seagrass and marine life.
The Ten Thousand Islands were seasonally used by the Calusa and later became important fishing grounds; the region’s channels reflect both natural change and a long human relationship with the sea.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the boat for dolphin and open-water shots
- • Ridge of the barrier island for wide shell-field panoramas
- • Mouth of a mangrove channel for dramatic reflections
What to Bring
Refillable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated through the boat ride and sun-exposed island stop.
Water shoes or strap sandalsEssential
Protects feet on wet sand, tidal flats, and while stepping on and off the boat.
Binoculars or zoom camera lens
Bring close-up views of dolphins, shorebirds, and distant islands without disturbing wildlife.
Reef-safe sunscreen and wide-brim hatEssential
Critical for sun protection on exposed water; choose reef-safe formulas to reduce environmental impact.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and how many stops are there?
The excursion is 3.5 hours total with a slow boat tour through the islands and at least one extended stop on an uninhabited barrier island for shelling and exploration.
Where do we meet the boat?
Meet at Goodland Boat Park—find the covered picnic pavilion to the left of the marina office; arrive 20–25 minutes early.
Is this tour suitable for children and older adults?
Yes. The tour is rated easy and hands-on; children and older guests can participate, though everyone must be able to step on/off the boat and walk on sand.
Will we see dolphins or manatees?
Wildlife sightings are common but not guaranteed; guides know local hotspots and sightings of dolphins, manatees, and shorebirds are frequent on most tours.
What should I wear?
Light, sun-protective clothing, a hat, reef-safe sunscreen, and water-friendly shoes are recommended; bring a towel and a light layer for breezy mornings.
Can I bring food or alcohol on board?
Check with the operator before booking; generally snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed, but alcohol may be restricted for safety and wildlife protection.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3.5 hours
Location
Goodland, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light. Must be able to step on/off a low-boarding boat and walk across sand and shallow tidal flats for up to an hour.
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