Florida Gulf Scalloping Trip with Captain Stacy
Private Trip
Cruise
Sixhour guided snorkeling adventure in Florida's Gulf watersAll snorkeling gear included for handson scallop collectingSmall group experience accommodating up to four guests maximum
Picture yourself cruising through Florida's crystal-clear Gulf waters on a scalloping adventure that combines the best of both worlds—a relaxing day on the water with the excitement of harvesting your own fresh seafood. Captain Stacy's Gulf scalloping cruise takes you to the prime shallow-water beds where bay scallops thrive, offering guests an authentic Florida experience that's part treasure hunt, part snorkeling adventure. This isn't your typical dinner cruise or sightseeing tour—it's a hands-on maritime experience where you'll spend six hours exploring some of the Gulf's most productive scalloping grounds while enjoying the freedom of being out on the open water.
Your scalloping cruise begins with Captain Stacy navigating to the best shallow-water spots where scallops are actively feeding and moving along the sandy bottom. The Gulf's warm, clear waters provide perfect visibility for snorkeling, typically ranging from 3 to 8 feet deep in the prime scalloping areas. You'll anchor up in protected bays and grass flats where the current is gentle and the water stays comfortable throughout the day. The beauty of this cruise lies in its interactive nature—instead of simply observing marine life from the deck, you'll be in the water searching for scallops among the seagrass beds. Captain Stacy provides all the snorkeling equipment, mesh bags for your catch, and expert guidance on scalloping techniques. The intimate group size of just four guests means personalized attention and plenty of space to spread out while hunting for these prized shellfish.
All snorkeling equipment comes included with your cruise—masks, snorkels, fins, and collection bags designed specifically for scalloping. Captain Stacy will brief you on proper snorkeling techniques before you enter the water, covering everything from clearing your mask to efficient swimming patterns that help you cover more ground while conserving energy. The key to successful scalloping is learning to spot their distinctive shells among the turtle grass and sand patches. Fresh bay scallops have a fan-shaped shell that's often partially buried, with just the edge visible. They're surprisingly mobile and will "clap" their shells to propel themselves when disturbed, creating small puffs of sand that actually make them easier to spot. Captain Stacy teaches guests to work systematically across the grass beds, checking likely hiding spots around rocks and shell patches. The shallow depths mean you can easily surface for air and conversation, making this cruise accessible for snorkelers of all experience levels.
Bay scallops are the stars of this Gulf cruise, and understanding their behavior makes the hunt even more rewarding. These bivalves are most active during Florida's scalloping season, which runs from July through September when water temperatures peak and the scallops are at their largest size. Adult bay scallops typically measure 3 to 4 inches across and can live up to two years, developing the sweet, tender meat that makes them so sought-after by seafood lovers. What makes scallops particularly exciting to hunt is their surprising mobility—unlike oysters or clams that stay put, scallops can actually swim by rapidly opening and closing their shells. When you approach one, it might suddenly jet away in a cloud of sand and debris, turning your cruise into an underwater chase scene. They have dozens of tiny blue eyes around their shell opening that can detect movement and changes in light, making them surprisingly aware of approaching snorkelers. Bay scallops prefer sandy areas mixed with seagrass beds where they can filter-feed on plankton and organic particles. The Gulf's shallow flats provide ideal habitat, and Captain Stacy knows exactly which spots produce the most consistent action throughout the season.
This top-rated Gulf scalloping cruise offers something you won't find on larger tour boats—personalized attention, flexibility to stay longer at productive spots, and the expertise of a captain who knows these waters inside and out. With space for just four guests, you'll have plenty of room to snorkel comfortably and store your gear without feeling crowded. The six-hour duration gives you ample time to visit multiple scalloping areas and really get into the rhythm of hunting these tasty shellfish. Captain Stacy's local knowledge means you'll spend your time in the water collecting scallops rather than searching empty areas. Remember to bring your own snacks and drinks for the day, along with sunscreen and a hat for sun protection during surface intervals. Florida's Gulf waters offer some of the best scalloping opportunities on the entire coast, and this hands-on cruise experience lets you harvest your own fresh seafood while enjoying a day on the water. Book early during scalloping season, as these small-group cruises fill up quickly with both locals and visitors eager to experience authentic Florida Gulf coast traditions.
Captain Stacy's freshly restored 24-foot Carolina Skiff Sea Chaser is your perfect ride for hunting Florida's famous bay scallops. This sleek center console boat cuts through Gulf waters with ease thanks to its powerful 250HP Yamaha engine, getting you to the best scalloping grounds quickly and smoothly. The spacious layout comfortably fits your group of 4 with plenty of room to move around while snorkeling and sorting your catch. Built-in icebox keeps your drinks cold and scallops fresh, while the GPS and fish finder help Captain Stacy navigate to those sweet spots where scallops love to hide in the sandy grass flats. The shallow draft design lets you cruise right into those crystal-clear shallows where the best scalloping happens, making it easy to hop in and out of the water all day long.
St Marks, FL