Treasure Island Island Shelling & Swimming Tour
Private Trip
Combo of Land & Sea
Private 4-hour charter accommodates up to six passengers comfortablyCaptain Frank guides shelling and swimming at scenic shallow-water islandsFlat-rate pricing includes fuel with food and drinks welcome aboard
Captain Frank's private island-hopping adventure gives you and your crew the perfect blend of beach combing and swimming in some of Florida's most beautiful shallow waters. This 4-hour charter takes up to six guests around Treasure Island's hidden gems, where you'll discover pristine sandy beaches loaded with shells and enjoy crystal-clear waters perfect for a refreshing dip. It's the kind of day trip that locals have been keeping secret – until now.
Your private charter kicks off from Treasure Island, where Captain Frank will welcome your group aboard a comfortable boat equipped with all the safety gear and seating you'll need. The beauty of this tour lies in its flexibility – you're not stuck to a rigid schedule or fighting crowds for the best shelling spots. Frank knows these waters like the back of his hand and will take you to secluded islands where the shell hunting is top-notch and the swimming spots are absolutely perfect. Bring your own cooler packed with snacks and drinks, because this flat-rate charter includes fuel, so you can focus on having fun rather than worrying about extra costs. The shallow waters around these barrier islands create ideal conditions for both kids and adults to wade around safely while searching for treasure.
The magic happens when Frank anchors near the sandy shoals and smaller islands that dot this part of the Gulf Coast. These aren't your typical crowded tourist beaches – we're talking about pristine stretches of sand where shells wash up naturally with each tide. You'll learn to read the wrack lines where the best specimens collect, and Frank often shares insider tips about timing your search with the tides for maximum success. The boat's shallow draft allows access to areas that larger vessels simply can't reach, giving you exclusive access to some of the most productive shelling grounds in the region. Between shell hunting sessions, the clear, warm waters provide perfect swimming opportunities. The sandy bottom and gentle currents make it safe for all skill levels, from toddlers to grandparents.
The waters around Treasure Island are famous among shell collectors for good reason. Lightning whelks are one of the most sought-after finds here – these large, spiral shells can reach up to 16 inches and are actually Florida's state shell. They're left-handed spirals, which makes them unique among most shells, and you'll often find them in the shallow grass flats during lower tides. Sand dollars are another customer favorite, especially the smaller, delicate ones that wash up on the more protected beaches. Live sand dollars appear dark and fuzzy underwater, but the white ones you'll collect are naturally bleached specimens. Fighting conchs are abundant in these warm Gulf waters, and their beautiful orange and pink coloring makes them perfect souvenirs. These active mollusks are usually found in seagrass beds, and spotting a live one moving across the sandy bottom is always exciting for kids. Scallop shells, with their fan-like ridges, are particularly common during summer months when bay scallops are most active in the shallow bays.
This private island shelling and swimming tour delivers exactly what families and small groups are looking for – a personalized day on the water without the hassles of crowded tour boats or rushed schedules. Captain Frank's local expertise and the boat's ability to access secluded spots make this a world-class shelling experience that's suitable for everyone from young kids to seasoned beachcombers. The combination of productive shell hunting, safe swimming areas, and the freedom to bring your own refreshments creates the perfect recipe for a memorable day. With fuel included in the flat rate and space for up to six passengers, it's an outstanding value for a private charter experience. Remember to bring a mesh bag for your shell collection, reef-safe sunscreen, and don't forget that customary 20% gratuity for Captain Frank – he'll make sure your day exceeds expectations.
Captain Frank's 36' Yellowfin is built for exploring Florida's barrier islands in comfort. This spacious motorboat keeps groups small at just six passengers, giving everyone plenty of room to move around while island hopping. Triple 350 HP Suzuki engines cruise at 45 mph, getting you to the best shelling spots and swimming areas quickly. The boat comes equipped with Garmin electronics for navigation, plus radar and fish finder to locate the perfect shallow water destinations. An onboard icebox keeps your snacks and drinks cold during the 4-hour adventure, while the Carolina fish box provides extra storage. The boat includes a head for convenience and all safety equipment. Perfect for families wanting to explore secluded beaches, collect shells, and swim in crystal-clear waters around Treasure Island's scenic coastline.
Treasure Island, FL