shelling tours and sunset cruises

Question

Looking for recommendations to go on sunset cruise and a shelling cruise?

Answer

Naples on the Southwest Gulf Coast is fantastic for both sunset cruises and shelling excursions. The area offers a mix of calm waters, scenic coastline, and abundant marine life, making it ideal for both relaxing and active experiences.

Sunset Cruises:

Many local companies offer evening cruises that coincide with the beautiful Gulf Coast sunsets. These typically last 1.5–2 hours and provide drinks and snacks onboard.
Popular options include Naples Princess, which offers a large boat experience with onboard commentary, or smaller private charters for a more intimate experience.
Sunset cruises usually depart from Naples Bay or Tin City, giving you easy access from most hotels in the area.

Shelling Cruises:

For shelling, you’ll likely head out towards the Ten Thousand Islands or nearby small barrier islands where shells are abundant and the beaches are less crowded.
Companies such as Pure Florida or Captain Ryan’s offer guided shelling tours, often combined with wildlife spotting (dolphins, manatees, and birds) and shallow water stops perfect for wading and collecting shells.
These trips can vary from half-day tours to full-day excursions, some including picnic lunches or snorkeling opportunities.

Tips:

Book in advance, especially during peak travel months, as these tours fill up quickly.
Check if the tour provides gear like snorkeling equipment, water, and sun protection, or if you need to bring your own.
Consider combining a shelling tour with a kayaking or paddleboarding option for a more active day.

With a mix of sunset and shelling cruises, you can enjoy both the calm, scenic evenings and the adventure of exploring pristine beaches and collecting shells—a perfect combination for a Naples getaway.