FORT MYERS BEACH BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Sanibel Light and the Great Shell Hunt: A Bay Cruise to Fort Myers’ Best Beachcombing
A short cruise across San Carlos Bay to Sanibel Island for beach time, shelling, a lighthouse visit and walking trails — useful for planning what to bring and what to expect.
Sanibel Light and the Great Shell Hunt: A Bay Cruise to Fort Myers’ Best Beachcombing.
Island Runner Tours runs a coastal cruise from Fort Myers Beach out through the pass, across San Carlos Bay and onto the southern tip of Sanibel Island where passengers anchor for beachcombing, shelling and visits to the iconic Sanibel Light and nearby walking trails. Complimentary bottled water is provided aboard, and there is time on shore with beach facilities including showers.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Coastal Transit Across San Carlos Bay
The cruise takes you past Bowditch and out the pass, with Sanibel Light and the island’s southern tip coming into view before the vessel anchors at the beach for shore time and shelling.
Beachcombing & Shelling
Once anchored, the outing focuses on relaxed beach time for shelling and exploring the shore — the core reason many travelers take this trip.
Sanibel Lighthouse & Walking Trails
There is time on shore to visit the Sanibel Light and sample nearby walking trails; shore-side amenities such as showers are available for guests.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
The trip unfolds as a short coastal cruise: depart Fort Myers Beach, pass Bowditch and head out through the pass, watch the Sanibel Light and southern tip of Sanibel Island come into view, then anchor offshore for an easy, beach-oriented stop where passengers disembark to shell, walk trails and use beach facilities while the boat stands by.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most out of this outing — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring sunscreen and a hat; in winter months a jacket or sweatshirt is recommended for breezy conditions. Guests may bring food and drinks (soda, beer, wine and mixed drinks) — keep amounts reasonable and respect beach alcohol rules.
Complimentary bottled water and a cooler with ice are provided aboard.
Illegal substances are not permitted (possession will result in returning to dock without refund) and smoking/vaping is prohibited; alcohol is not permitted on the public beach.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is water provided on the trip?
Yes — complimentary bottled water and a cooler with ice are provided.
Are gratuities included?
No — gratuity is not included; coordinate with the captain if you would like to add a tip.
Can I bring alcohol?
Guests may bring food and drinks including beer, wine and mixed drinks, but no excessive amounts; note that alcohol is not permitted on the public beach.
Are showers available at the landing?
Yes — showers are available at the beach landing.
What happens if someone brings illegal substances or smokes on board?
Illegal substances are not allowed and will result in returning to the dock with no refund; smoking and vaping are prohibited.