Get ready to soak up the Florida sunshine and hunt for seashell treasures on our 4-hour beach escape! We'll cruise the crystal-clear waters between Captiva and Cayo Costa, giving you the inside scoop on the best shelling spots only us locals know about. Whether you're a seasoned shell collector or just looking to wiggle your toes in the sand, this trip's got something for everyone. Bring your sunscreen and sense of adventure – we're about to show you why Fort Myers is the shelling capital of the world!
We'll kick things off at our marina in Fort Myers, where you'll meet your friendly captain and hop aboard our comfy boat. As we zip across the sparkling Gulf, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playing in our wake – they love to show off! Once we hit the islands, it's up to you how we spend our time. Want to beach-hop and find the best shells? No problem. Rather park it on one perfect stretch of sand? You got it. We've got 4 hours to play with, so we can mix it up however you like. Our local know-how means we can take you to the quiet coves where the best shells wash up, or find that picture-perfect beach you've been dreaming of. And don't worry – we've got plenty of shade on the boat for when you need a break from the Florida rays.
If you're here for the shells (and let's be honest, who isn't?), you're in for a treat. The beaches around Captiva and Cayo Costa are like nature's jewelry box – every wave brings in new treasures. We'll show you how to spot the good stuff, from tiny coquinas to prized lightning whelks. The "Sanibel Stoop" isn't just a funny name – it's the bent-over walk you'll perfect as you scan the sand for that perfect take-home souvenir. And hey, if you find a junonia? Buy a lottery ticket, 'cause it's your lucky day! Don't forget to bring a bucket or mesh bag to carry your haul. Pro tip: the best shelling is often right after high tide, so we'll time our stops to give you the best shot at finding those coveted keepers.
Not big on shell hunting? No worries – these beaches are slice-of-heaven beautiful all on their own. We can find you that perfect spot to spread out a towel, take a dip in the warm Gulf waters, or just watch the pelicans dive-bomb for their lunch. Bring a good book, your favorite playlist, or hey – maybe learn the fine art of doing absolutely nothing at all. This is your chance to get away from it all on some of the most pristine beaches in Florida. And if you're traveling with kiddos? They'll have a blast building sandcastles, splashing in the shallows, and maybe even spotting a manatee or sea turtle if we're extra lucky.
One of the coolest parts of this trip? Getting to play castaway on multiple islands. Captiva's got that laid-back, barefoot luxury vibe, while Cayo Costa feels like you've stepped back in time to old Florida. We might cruise by Useppa Island for a glimpse of the fancy houses, or swing near Cabbage Key where Jimmy Buffett supposedly wrote "Cheeseburger in Paradise." Your captain's got all the local gossip and island lore, so don't be shy about asking questions. And speaking of captains – ours know these waters like the back of their hand. They'll make sure you're safe, comfy, and having an absolute blast the whole time.
Alright, let's talk gear. You'll want to pack light, but smart. Definitely bring: - Sunscreen (the higher the SPF, the better) - Hat and sunglasses - Water shoes or flip-flops (those shells can be sharp!) - Towel - Camera or phone for those Instagram-worthy beach shots - Water bottle (stay hydrated, folks!) - Snacks if you want 'em (we don't provide food on this one)
Wear your swimsuit under comfy clothes, and maybe bring a light jacket – it can get breezy out on the water. Oh, and don't forget a change of clothes for the ride back. Trust me, you'll appreciate dry shorts after a day of splashing and shelling.
Our boat can take up to 4 people, making this the perfect trip for families, couples, or a small group of friends. It's big enough to be comfy, but small enough that you're not fighting crowds for the best beach spots. Plus, with just your group on board, we can really tailor the day to what you want. Celebrating something special? Let us know and we'll make sure it's extra memorable. And don't worry if you're new to boating or have little ones – safety is our top priority, and we've got life jackets for everyone.
Look, we're in Florida, so a little afternoon shower isn't unusual. But don't sweat it – often they pass quickly, and sometimes they're a welcome cool-down! If the forecast looks iffy, we'll be in touch about rescheduling. And on the off chance we have to call it off? Full refund, no questions asked. We want you to have the best day possible, so we'll always err on the side of caution when it comes to weather.
While we're not specifically targeting fish on this trip, keep your eyes peeled for all kinds of cool coastal critters. Dolphins are practically guaranteed – they love to play in boat wakes and you might spot them hunting in the shallows. Manatees sometimes cruise by, especially if we're near seagrass beds. And birds? Oh man, we've got a whole airshow out here. Ospreys dive-bombing for fish, frigate birds soaring way up high, and if you're really lucky, you might spot a roseate spoonbill (think flamingo, but cooler). Your captain knows all the best spots for wildlife watching, so don't be shy about asking to slow down if you see something cool!
Alright, sun seekers and shell hunters – ready to make some sandy memories? This 4-hour beach adventure is hands-down one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Fort Myers and our surrounding islands. Whether you're a local looking for a staycation or a visitor wanting to see the real Florida, we've got you covered. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak shelling season, so don't wait to book your spot. Give us a call or hit that 'Book Now' button – we can't wait to show you our little slice of paradise!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200