Goodland, Florida, offers more than just a quiet getaway—it’s an ideal spot for memorable boat tours and wildlife excursions. The calm waters of the 10,000 Islands make for excellent adventure and relaxation opportunities, especially for nature lovers. We especially like the Private Shelling & Dolphin Excursion because it combines close encounters with playful dolphins and the chance to collect stunning shells, making it perfect for families and curious travelers alike. Meanwhile, the Island Paradise: Dolphin, Shelling, Birding Eco Boat Tour offers a well-rounded experience with expert guides, ideal for those wanting an educational trip plus wildlife sightings. For pure elegance, the 10,000 Islands Private Sailing Tour stands out with its luxurious catamaran and customizable routes, perfect for a romantic sunset or a laid-back day on the water. Check out these options below to see which fits your style and schedule.
Quick Overview
This list features a diverse range of boat tours and excursions around Goodland. Whether you’re after a private shelling trip or a luxury sailing experience, there’s something for all. You can explore the wildlife-rich 10,000 Islands, enjoy guided shelling on remote barrier islands, or relax aboard a performance sailing catamaran. Each offers a unique way to experience Florida’s natural beauty, with options that range from more intimate private trips to larger group adventures. For detailed descriptions, visit the individual tour pages linked in each section.
1. Marco Island: Private Shelling & Dolphin Excursion
At number 1, the Marco Island: Private Shelling & Dolphin Excursion is a standout for its personalized nature. Priced at $475 for a group of up to six, this 2.5-hour private boat tour takes you through the 10,000 Islands Wildlife Refuge—a flourishing sanctuary teeming with dolphins, manatees, and many bird species. The small group size means plenty of time to capture close-up pictures of wild dolphins playing around the boat, making it perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on personalized experience and shell collecting. As you cruise, you’ll be encouraged to gather buckets of exotic shells, which often include rare finds. The guide, experienced and attentive, shares insights about the ecosystem and the animals you encounter. The natural setting ensures a peaceful escape, far from crowded tourist spots, with an emphasis on enjoying nature at its best. The trip’s value is high, especially given the private setting and the chance for both wildlife viewing and shell gathering. Ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting a tailored adventure.
Bottom line: If you prefer a private, intimate experience with wildlife and shelling, this tour offers personalized attention and memorable moments on the water.
2. Goodland, FL: The 10,000 Islands Private Sailing Tour
Sailing fans will love the Goodland, FL: The 10,000 Islands Private Sailing Tour, which is rated a perfect 5/5 based on six reviews. Priced at $440 for up to six guests, this 2-hour luxury tour offers a different perspective of the region’s stunning waters. The performance sailing catamaran is designed for sailing as much as possible, with plenty of space to relax on the netting or lounge comfortably on deck.
One reason this tour stands out is the focus on sailing as a sport and leisure activity, with an experienced crew guiding the vessel. You’ll enjoy the serene environment, perfect for watching the sunset or enjoying a peaceful day on the water. The boat’s spacious layout makes it suitable for groups seeking a relaxed, no-hassle experience with plenty of room to stretch out. The tour includes a head onboard for convenience, which adds to its comfort factor.
This experience is well-suited for sailing aficionados, couples wanting a romantic outing, or anyone seeking a quiet escape with the flexibility to customize the trip. The elegant setting and quality service justify the cost, especially for those who value a more refined adventure.
Bottom line: For a luxurious, customizable sailing trip with plenty of space and comfort, this tour is hard to beat, especially if you appreciate sailing and tranquility.
3. Barrier Island Shelling Tour
For $125 per person, the Barrier Island Shelling Tour provides a 2.5-hour guided journey to uninhabited barrier islands near Kice Island. This small-group tour focuses on shelling on pristine beaches, giving travelers a chance to find rare and beautiful shells, including varieties that are unique to the barrier islands. The natural setting is untouched, offering an authentic experience of Florida’s coast.
What makes this tour special is its emphasis on learning about the ecosystem. You’ll see dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species, all in their natural habitat. Guides share insights about the delicate balance of this ecosystem, making it educational as well as fun. The remote beaches are perfect for collecting treasures, and the natural beauty of the Ten Thousand Islands is on full display.
This tour appeals to those interested in shell collecting, wildlife viewing, and eco-tourism. It’s well-rated and offers a focused experience for travelers wanting a taste of untouched Florida coast. The moderate price and inclusion of wildlife sightings make it a compelling value.
Bottom line: If your goal is shelling combined with wildlife and nature immersion, this guided tour offers a beautiful, educational experience.
4. Island Paradise: Dolphin, Shelling, Birding Eco Boat Tour
Rated at 5/5 with only two reviews, the Island Paradise: Dolphin, Shelling, Birding Eco Boat Tour offers an excellent, well-rounded 2.5-hour adventure for $125 per person. Led by Florida Master Naturalist guides and experienced Coast Guard captains, this tour combines wildlife sightings with hands-on shelling on secluded barrier islands.
What sets this trip apart is its focus on wildlife education and interaction. You’ll see playful dolphins in their natural environment, stop at a remote beach to shell and swim, and observe a variety of bird species and other wildlife. The guides’ expertise enhances the experience, making it both fun and informative. This tour is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive eco-adventure that balances wildlife, shelling, and relaxation.
Though smaller in reviews, it’s clearly highly regarded, emphasizing authentic encounters with nature. It’s a great choice for travelers interested in birding, wildlife photography, or simply enjoying a peaceful day surrounded by natural beauty.
Bottom line: If you want an educational, interactive eco-boat tour with opportunities for wildlife viewing and shelling, this is an excellent option.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting the best experience, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If privacy and shell collecting are your priorities, the Marco Island Private Shelling & Dolphin Excursion offers a personalized touch. For a luxurious sailing experience, the Private Sailing Tour provides comfort and flexibility. If you’re keen on combining wildlife with shelling but prefer a budget-friendly option, the Barrier Island Shelling Tour hits all the marks. Lastly, for an educational and interactive day with guides sharing naturalist insights, the Island Paradise Eco Tour is hard to beat.
Booking early is encouraged, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Goodland offers a wonderful variety of boat-based adventures that highlight the region’s natural beauty and wildlife. Whether you want a private, intimate outing or a guided eco-tour, there’s something to match your interests. For a family trip, the shelling excursions provide fun and education, while couples might prefer the luxury sailing. Those interested in wildlife photography or birding will find the eco-tour particularly rewarding.
Remember, these tours provide a great way to see the 10,000 Islands and learn about their fragile ecosystems. To make the most of your visit, consider your interests, budget, and the type of experience you seek. And don’t forget—early booking can make all the difference in securing a spot on these popular outings. Happy sailing and shelling!