FORT MYERS BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
North Captiva by Day: A Shelling Beach & Dolphin Cruise out of Fort Myers
A guided boat outing from Fort Myers to the secluded shores of North Captiva for shelling, dolphin watching and a long beach picnic—this guide explains what to expect and what to pack.
North Captiva by Day: A Shelling Beach & Dolphin Cruise out of Fort Myers.
This half-day cruise delivers a rare stretch of preserved Gulf shoreline: a guided run from Fort Myers to the barrier island of North Captiva where a captain and naturalist lead you to sandbars for shelling, stop as dolphins play, and leave you to an extended beach picnic away from the crowds.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A boat-only barrier island
The trip cruises to North Captiva—an island accessible only by water—so the experience feels remote and marine-focused: sightseeing en route and time ashore on preserved beaches.
Shelling along preserved shores
Guests disembark to hunt shells along a protected stretch of island shoreline a couple of miles south of Cayo Costa, with guidance from the captain and naturalist.
Dolphins at play
Part of the cruise’s draw is dolphin viewing — watch pods playing in the channel as the boat moves between the mainland and the barrier islands.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You board in Fort Myers for a guided cruise led by a captain and naturalist, glide out to North Captiva Island, pause for dolphin sightings and sightseeing, then disembark for an extended shelling-and-picnic stop on the preserved beach before returning to port.
THE ROUTE
A boat-only barrier island
The trip cruises to North Captiva—an island accessible only by water—so the experience feels remote and marine-focused: sightseeing en route and time ashore on preserved beaches.
THE ACTIVITY
Shelling along preserved shores
Guests disembark to hunt shells along a protected stretch of island shoreline a couple of miles south of Cayo Costa, with guidance from the captain and naturalist.
WILDLIFE
Dolphins at play
Part of the cruise’s draw is dolphin viewing — watch pods playing in the channel as the boat moves between the mainland and the barrier islands.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Pack a picnic lunch (there are no restaurant stops), swimsuits, beach shoes, and a shelling bag. The operator provides a limited number of beach chairs and umbrellas, so bring your own if you need guaranteed seating or shade.
Expect extended time on the island; bring sun protection and any comforts you need for a beach picnic since the stop is not serviced by island restaurants.
You must bring your own picnic lunch to eat on the beach or on the boat at the beach—no restaurant visits are included.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What time does the trip run?
The cruise departs at 9:00 a.m. and returns at 2:00 p.m.
Where do we board?
The trip departs from Port Sanibel Marina in Fort Myers; note that despite the name the marina is not located on Sanibel Island.
Is food provided?
No—participants should pack a picnic lunch to eat on the beach or on the boat; there are no restaurant stops on this tour.
Are there age-based fares?
Yes—adult tickets are $89; children ages 4–12 are $79; children 3 and under are free.
Will I be comfortable on the beach?
Adventures in Paradise provides a limited number of beach chairs and umbrellas, but you may want to bring your own for guaranteed seating and shade.
Who guides the trip?
A captain and a naturalist lead and interpret the cruise and beach activities.