Bayside Secrets: Private Island, Shelling and Dolphin Charters off St. Pete Beach

ST PETE BEACH SAILING FIELD GUIDE

Bayside Secrets: Private Island, Shelling and Dolphin Charters off St. Pete Beach

Private charters from St. Pete Beach explore hidden beaches, islands and sandbars for snorkeling, shelling and wildlife encounters—customizable by duration and group.

Bayside Secrets: Private Island, Shelling and Dolphin Charters off St. Pete Beach.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
St Pete Beach
Operator
Non Stop Fishing Charters
Category
Sailing
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

From the sunlit shallows off St. Pete Beach, a private charter peels away from shore into a world of sandbars, barrier islands and glassy channels accessible only by boat. On the Island/Shelling/Dolphin Tours you’ll visit pristine beaches and preserves, search Shell Key for world-class shells, snorkel in clear water, and visit Egmont Key’s 19th‑century Spanish ruins while watching for dolphins, manatees and turtles; the itinerary is entirely customizable to your group’s wishes.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

WILDLIFE

Dolphins, Manatees and Turtles in Shallow Water

The charter routinely puts you into waters where dolphins, manatees, turtles, fish and birds are commonly seen—ideal conditions for snorkeling or simply watching wildlife from the boat.

HISTORY

Egmont Key’s 1800s Spanish Ruins

A stop at Egmont Key brings history into the itinerary: remnants of Spanish‑era structures from the 1800s are accessible by boat and offer a striking contrast to the white sand and blue water.

THE ACCESS

Hidden Beaches, Sandbars and Shell Key

The charter visits sandbars, islands and Shell Key Preserve—areas of pristine water and shelling that are reachable only by boat, making them prime spots for relaxed beach time and collecting shells.

What the day feels like

What the cruise feels like

You step aboard a private boat and set a flexible course: comb shell‑strewn beaches, anchor on a sandbar for snorkeling, circle slow for dolphins, or motor to Egmont Key to inspect historic ruins. The rhythm of the day—water, wildlife, brief hikes and waterfront stops—bends around your party because the trip is completely customizable.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this charter is best for

1
Active FamiliesFamilies who want a flexible day on the water—short cruises are available and activities like shelling and shallow snorkeling keep kids engaged; check with the operator about any specific needs.
2
Wildlife WatchersIdeal for travelers hoping to see dolphins, manatees, turtles and shorebirds from close range in calm, shallow waters.
3
Shell Collectors & BeachcombersPerfect for people who want access to Shell Key and other preserves reachable only by boat, where shelling is a primary activity.
4
Custom Groups & CelebrationsGroups seeking a tailored outing—half‑day or full‑day options with the ability to begin or end at waterfront bars—will find the private charter format convenient.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Start Times

Start times can be adjusted at your request; charter lengths are offered in two‑, three‑, four‑ and six‑hour blocks (see rates).

What to Expect

Expect a private boat outing with beach stops, snorkeling and shelling in shallow water; the day is customizable to your group’s interests.

Rates & Durations

Two‑hour charter $350; three‑hour charter $450; four‑hour charter $550; six‑hour charter $750.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long are the charters and what do they cost?

Charters are offered in two‑, three‑, four‑ and six‑hour durations priced at $350, $450, $550 and $750 respectively.

Who operates the Island/Shelling/Dolphin Tours?

The tours are operated by Non Stop Fishing Charters.

Can we snorkel and go shelling on the trip?

Yes—snorkeling and shelling are offered as part of the customizable private charter experience.

What wildlife might we see?

You may encounter dolphins, manatees, turtles, fish and a variety of shorebirds while on the charter.

Can the itinerary and start time be adjusted?

Yes—the trip is completely customizable and start times can be adjusted at your request.