4 Hour Kice Island Shelling Trip

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful escape to Florida’s stunning coastlines, the 4 Hour Kice Island Shelling Trip from Marco Island is worth considering. This tour promises hours of quiet beach time, beautiful scenery, and chances to collect unique shells — ideal if you’re into nature, photography, or simply relaxing on the water.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the small-group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate adventure. Second, the expert guides shared glowing reviews for their knowledge about local wildlife and history.

But, a quick heads-up: the cost of $155 per person might seem high compared to some other outings, especially if you’re traveling on a tight budget. Also, there’s a parking fee of $10, and no lunch is included, so plan accordingly. This tour suits travelers who value quality over quantity, enjoy wildlife observation, and love a laid-back shelling experience.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Limited group size (maximum of 14 people) creates a friendly, less crowded atmosphere.
• Wildlife sightings: Expect to see dolphins, manatees, and various bird species.
• Expert guidance: Guides are knowledgeable and eager to teach about shells, local wildlife, and history.
• Scenic boat cruise: Travel through the Ten Thousand Islands and enjoy beautiful views on the way to the islands.
• Flexibility: Access to multiple islands and beaches, with guides adjusting stops if needed.
• Good value: Many reviews praise the guides’ expertise and the overall quality of the experience relative to the price.

This tour is designed for those craving a relaxed, nature-focused outing. The main attraction is shelling on two islands — Dickmans Island and Kice Island — combined with a scenic boat trip through the Ten Thousand Islands. The entire experience lasts roughly three hours and fifteen minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak up the views, collect shells, and maybe even spot some wildlife.

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins at Goodland Boating Park, located at 750 Palm Point Drive. From here, your boat departs for the islands, cruising through the lush, winding waterways of the Ten Thousand Islands. The boat itself is fully shaded with ample seating, so you’ll be comfortable even on warm days. They provide complimentary bottled water and shelling bags, plus a shell guide to help identify your finds.

Most travelers find that this tour is booked about 25 days in advance, which makes sense given its popularity — especially among those eager for a memorable, quiet day out.

The Scenic Boat Ride

Your journey starts with a cruise through some of Florida’s most picturesque waters, passing Neal Key, Ramsey Key, and Little Tide Key. This part of the trip is not just about getting from point A to B but offers a chance to enjoy the scenery and observe local marine life—dolphins and manatees are often spotted along the way, as several reviews enthusiastically mention.

One guest shared, “We loved the way the guide took us to less crowded areas, even an extra island when we weren’t feeling the first.” This flexibility is a real plus, especially if weather conditions or wildlife activity influence your preferences.

First Stop: Dickmans Island and Sandbars

After about an hour and a half cruising, you’ll arrive at Dickmans Island and nearby sandbars. Here, you can stretch your legs and walk along the beach, a perfect setting to look for shells. This spot is lauded for its beautiful sea treasures and is considered a highlight for shell collectors.

Guests describe it as “a great spot to find beautiful shells,” and many appreciate the calm, uncrowded environment. Keep in mind, admission here is not included, but the focus is on shelling and enjoying nature.

Second Stop: Kice Island

The main destination of the trip, Kice Island, offers a more extensive shoreline walk, allowing you to explore and gather shells at your leisure. Access is on the north side, which provides a quieter, less trafficked beach. Visitors often mention the variety of shells, with some even scoring special finds like sand dollars.

One reviewer said, “Marco was our captain, and he made sure we were happy throughout. We visited three different islands and found shells and sand dollars — the trip was totally worth it.”

The time here is about an hour, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to wander along the shore, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

What’s Included & What to Bring

Your ticket price includes complimentary shelling bags, a shell guide, a cooler full of ice, bottled water, and a fully shaded boat. These thoughtful touches make the experience comfortable and educational.

However, keep in mind that parking costs $10, and lunch isn’t included, so pack your own snacks or plan to grab something after the tour.

The Experience from the Guests’ Perspective

Guests frequently rave about their guides, with Captain Colleen and Marco receiving specific praise. Comments like “she was funny, caring, and knowledgeable” or “Captain Marco took us to sand dollar hotspots” show how much guides enhance the trip.

Wildlife sightings also feature prominently in reviews. Many guests share stories of dolphins cruising alongside the boat or glimpses of manatees—these animals make the trip more memorable.

Some people note that the trip is especially suited for those who love learning about the environment. One review mentions, “RJ was amazing, sharing stories about the ecosystem and history of the area,” which adds an educational layer to the fun.

How Does the Pricing Stack Up?

At $155 per person, many consider this tour a good value, especially given the personalized attention, expert guides, and wildlife encounters. For just over three hours, it offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, shelling, and relaxation.

The price might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, but reviews consistently highlight the quality of the guides and the unique experience of being on fewer crowds and pristine beaches.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits nature lovers, shell collectors, wildlife enthusiasts, and those looking for a peaceful, small-group experience. It’s perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace, enjoy learning about local ecosystems, and want to avoid the crowds often associated with larger tours.

It’s also a good fit for travelers who appreciate flexibility and personalized service. Families with older children might enjoy it too, especially if they love shelling and wildlife.

The 4 Hour Kice Island Shelling Trip offers an authentic, laid-back way to explore Florida’s beautiful waterways and beaches. The combination of scenic boat rides, expert-guided shelling, and wildlife sightings makes it a standout experience for those who want more than just a typical tour.

While it’s not the cheapest option out there, many reviews highlight how the quality of guides, the peaceful environment, and the chance to find shells make it worth the price. The small group size ensures a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, which is often missing from larger, more commercial trips.

This tour is ideal if you’re seeking a calming day on the water, want to learn about local wildlife, or simply love searching for treasures washed up on the shore. If these things appeal to you, it’s likely to be a highlight of your time in Marco Island.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, it’s best for children who can comfortably walk on beaches and enjoy boat rides. The relaxed pace and gentle environment make it family-friendly, but check with the provider if you have specific age considerations.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride itself lasts about 1.5 hours each way through the Ten Thousand Islands, with additional time spent at the stops for shelling and exploring.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water, and comfortable footwear for walking on the beach. The tour provides shelling bags and a shell guide, but bringing a camera and a small towel might add to your enjoyment.

Are there restroom facilities on the boat?
The description doesn’t specify, but most small boats have limited facilities. It’s best to use the restroom before departure.

Can I buy lunch during the trip?
Lunch is not included with your ticket, so plan to bring snacks or eat after the tour.

What’s the cancellation policy?
The tour offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

If you’re after a peaceful, educational, and wildlife-rich shelling adventure, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s well-loved by past guests for its knowledgeable guides, tranquil scenery, and excellent shelling spots. Just remember to book early to secure your spot — these trips tend to fill up!