Marco Island Sunset Cruise: 2-Hour Private Boat Tour with Dolphins & Shelling
Settle into a private two-hour cruise off Marco Island and watch the Gulf’s sunset while dolphins arc through the wake and a captain guides you to a remote shelling beach. Perfect for small groups, this intimate tour blends wildlife viewing, calm cruising, and a west-facing sunset spectacle.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a small cooler
You may bring a cooler with drinks and light snacks—stow it low on the boat for stability and easy access.
Prepare for low light
Bring a headlamp or flashlight for the trip back; twilight comes fast once the sun sets over the Gulf.
Motion-sickness prevention
Take anti-nausea medication 30–60 minutes before boarding if you’re prone to seasickness; sit mid-boat near the center for a steadier ride.
Respect wildlife distances
Do not attempt to touch or feed dolphins or manatees; captains will position the boat for viewing without disturbing animals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Tigertail Beach lagoon at low tide for close shorebird encounters
- •Keewaydin Island sandbar and shelling spots reachable only by small boat
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •West Indian manatees
Conservation Note
The estuary’s seagrass beds and mangroves are ecologically sensitive—practice ‘pack it in, pack it out,’ use reef-safe sunscreen and follow captain guidance to minimize disturbance.
The Ten Thousand Islands area was the domain of the Calusa people; later small-scale commercial fishing and shelling shaped local livelihoods.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the boat facing west for open-sky sunset shots
- • Remote island shoreline during the beach stop for shells and low-angle light
- • Mangrove-lined inlet for wildlife silhouettes
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare off the water and makes spotting marine life and shells easier.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the sensitive estuarine environment from harmful chemicals.
Light windbreaker
Evenings on the water can cool quickly after sunset—bring a lightweight layer.
Small dry bagEssential
Keeps phones, cameras and wallets dry during splashes and shore stops.
Common Questions
How many people fit on the boat?
The cruise is private for up to six guests per booking.
Can I bring alcohol on board?
Yes—guests may pack a cooler with adult beverages; please drink responsibly and follow the captain’s guidance.
Are infants allowed?
Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap for safety.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips are canceled for poor weather; full refunds are issued if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are allowed; other pets should be confirmed with the operator ahead of time.
Where does the cruise depart from?
Departures are from a dock on Marco Island—your booking confirmation includes the exact meet-up point and time.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–2.5 hours
Location
Marco Island, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most ages and fitness levels; requires short, gentle steps for shore landings
Ready to Explore Marco Island?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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