Private Marco Island 10,000 Islands Sightseeing and Dolphin Tour
Leave the crowds behind and chase dolphins through the shallow channels of the 10,000 Islands on a private boat from Goodland. This short, family-friendly outing pairs shell-collecting stops with up-close wildlife viewing and a primer on mangrove ecology.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Florida sun is intense on open water—use reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the marine environment.
Pack motion-sickness remedies
Even on calm days small boats can rock; take a preventative dose or bring acupressure bands if you’re prone to seasickness.
Know shell-collecting rules
Collect only empty shells—do not take living animals or disturb nesting birds and vegetation.
Wear water-friendly shoes
Shelling on barrier islands means walking on uneven, shell-strewn sand—water shoes protect feet and make it easier to board the boat.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A narrow mangrove channel where herons hunt at low tide; bring binoculars.
- •A shallow shell bar that appears at low tide—perfect for sorting small colorful shells away from crowds.
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •Great blue herons and reddish egrets
Conservation Note
Mangroves are protected for their role as nurseries and storm buffers—avoid trampling roots or disturbing vegetation and only take empty, uninhabited shells.
The Calusa people inhabited these coasts for thousands of years, creating shell middens and sophisticated fishing techniques; remnants remain along shorelines and in museum collections.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the boat during dolphin encounters
- • Onshore shell bars at low tide
- • Shallow mangrove channels to capture reflections and birds
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the local marine environment while spending extended time on open water.
Wide-brim hat and polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare for safer navigation and better dolphin/wildlife spotting.
Water shoesEssential
Protects feet on shell-strewn islands and provides traction when boarding.
Light windbreaker
Blocks spray and cool sea breezes during early morning or winter outings.
Common Questions
Where do we meet the boat?
Meet at Goodland Boat Park next to the flag pole in front of the Ship store—this is the tour’s boarding point for all departures.
Can we keep shells we find?
You may collect empty, unoccupied shells; never remove live animals or disturb nesting birds and follow local rules on protected species.
Are restrooms available on the tour?
There are no restrooms on the boat; use facilities at the meeting point before departure.
Is this trip suitable for infants and small children?
Yes—infants must sit on laps. The tour is family-friendly, but supervise children onshore and when near water.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted; other pets should be discussed with the operator in advance.
What should I do if I get seasick?
Take preventive medication before boarding, sit mid-boat where motion is least, focus on the horizon, and stay hydrated.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–2.5 hours
Location
Goodland, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short walks on sandy or shell-covered islands and steady balance while boarding.
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