FORT MYERS BEACH BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Shells, Shallows and a Small-Boat Rhythm: Little Hickory Island by Miss Emilia
A 5-hour shelling outing from Fort Myers Beach aboard the small boat Miss Emilia, with shallow-water access, complimentary bottled water, and an optional lunch stop at Hickory Grill.
Shells, Shallows and a Small-Boat Rhythm: Little Hickory Island by Miss Emilia.
On this five-hour outing from Fort Myers Beach, the focus is simple and elemental: sand, shells and shallow Gulf shoals that make for unusually productive and easy-going shelling. The operator runs the trip aboard the small vessel Miss Emilia so the route stays close to shore — no long gulf run — and gives the day a relaxed, local cadence.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Productive, Shore-First Shelling
Little Hickory Island is promoted as a great shelling location without the long gulf run, so most of your time is spent on shallow shoals and beaches where shells wash up readily.
Cozy, Shallow-Water Vessel
Because of the shallow water in the shelling area, the operator uses a small boat, the Miss Emilia, which keeps the trip intimate and suited to short hops between shoals.
Hydration on Board and an Optional Lunch
The trip includes complimentary bottled water and a cooler with ice; on the five-hour itinerary you can bring your own food or opt for a stop at Hickory Grill for lunch.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
The day unfolds at a measured, local pace: board the Miss Emilia, thread the shallows and drop anchor at shell-rich shoals where shallow water makes walking and beach-combing straightforward. The small-boat scale keeps the group close to the shoreline and each other; over five hours you’ll rotate between shelling and breaks, with bottled water on hand and an optional stop ashore at Hickory Grill if you want a sit-down lunch.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Sunscreen and a hat are recommended; in winter bring a jacket or sweatshirt for breezy conditions. You may bring food and drinks (soda, beer, wine, mixed drinks) but avoid excessive alcohol.
The operator provides complimentary bottled water and a cooler with ice to keep drinks and snacks chilled.
Bring your own lunch or opt to stop at Hickory Grill during the five-hour trip.
In winter months, expect breezy conditions on gulf trips and consider bringing an extra layer—a jacket or sweatshirt.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The shelling trip is five hours long.
What boat is used for the trip?
Because of the shallow water in the shelling area, the operator uses their small boat, the Miss Emilia.
Is water provided onboard?
Yes — complimentary bottled water and a cooler with ice are provided.
Can we stop for lunch?
Yes — on the five-hour trip you can bring your own lunch or the operator can stop at Hickory Grill for a lunch break.
Is smoking allowed on the boat?
No — smoking and vaping are prohibited on the trip.
What happens if someone brings illegal substances?
If illegal substances are found, the boat will return to the dock and no refund will be issued.