Ten Thousand Islands Eco Boat Tour from Marco Island — Dolphins, Shelling & Birding
Slide past mangroves and sandbars on a 2.5-hour eco cruise from Marco Island to the Ten Thousand Islands. Expect playful dolphins, shorebird spectacles, and guided shelling on quiet barrier islands — all with local natural history from your captain.
The Experience
Before You Go
Pick the calmest window
Book a morning or late-afternoon departure for smoother water and better light for wildlife viewing and photography.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect yourself from strong sun and the fragile marine environment by using reef-safe SPF and a wide-brim hat.
Hydrate and layer
Carry a refillable water bottle and a lightweight windbreaker — sea breeze can feel cool even on warm days.
Respect shelling rules
Take only empty shells and follow your guide’s advice—removing live shells harms local populations and is often illegal.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Tigertail Beach tidal lagoon for shallow-water wading and shells
- •Cape Romano viewpoint for offshore dome-house ruins and birding from a distance
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphin
- •Roseate spoonbill
Conservation Note
This estuary is fragile; follow your guide’s instructions, avoid collecting live shells, and use reef-safe products to minimize impact.
The Ten Thousand Islands sit on a landscape used for millennia by the Calusa people, who engineered fish traps and relied on shellfish long before modern settlement.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the bow during dolphin passes
- • Onshore at a secluded barrier island beach
- • Across narrow mangrove channels for bird flocks
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the marine environment under strong Florida sun.
Wide-brim hat and sunglassesEssential
Shades your face and reduces glare while spotting birds and dolphins.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated keeps you alert and comfortable on the salt air.
Telephoto lens or binoculars
Helps capture distant bird behavior and dolphin activity without disturbing wildlife.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and where does it depart?
The tour lasts 2.5 hours and departs from private commercial docks at 220 Goodland Dr, across from Stan’s Idle Hour in Goodland/Marco Island.
Are children allowed and is life jacket provided?
Yes—children are welcome; life vests are provided and required for children six and under.
Will we definitely see dolphins or birds?
While wildlife sightings are frequent, encounters aren’t guaranteed—the captain maximizes opportunity but animals remain wild and unpredictable.
Is shelling allowed and are bags provided?
Yes—complementary shelling bags are provided; the guide will show legal and sustainable shelling spots and advise against taking live shells.
Is parking available at the departure point?
Free parking is available in the gravel lot across from Stan’s Idle Hour, behind the white fence.
What is the cancellation policy for bad weather?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance; operators may cancel due to unsafe weather and will refund affected bookings.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2.5 hours
Location
Goodland, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility to step aboard and onto low-slung beaches.
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