Shell Key Ferry from Ft. DeSoto Boat Ramp in Tierra Verde, FL
Recommended by 98% of travelers
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St Petersburg, USA
- 20 minutes (approx.)
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Overview
Visit the pristine barrier island of Shell Key to bask on its soft sand, swim in the warm water, and collect countless shells with this ferry from Tierra Verde. Set off directly from the Ft. DeSoto Boat Ramp for the 20-minute cruise to Shell Key, keeping watch for dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees along the way. Relax on the quiet island far from the crowds before the return ferry trip to the mainland.
- Hassle-free round-trip ferry to the scenic Shell Key barrier island
- Hours of free time on the island to swim and collect shells
- Spot marine animals like dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees
- Discover an unspoiled key far from the crowds on the mainland
What's Included
- Restroom on board
- Gratuities
- Parking Fees
Meeting and Pickup
Ticket Redemption Point
Fort De Soto Boat Ramp *only 1 floating dock operational at ramp*, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715, USA
What To Expect
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Most travelers can participate
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 49 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Leah_C
Bring a beach umbrella or rent one on the boat for $6. There is no shade unless you go into dense brush. Boat also sells snacks on the ride to and from the island. We walked down past where everyone was set up and found lots of great full shells in the water. The staff are fantastic, they offer turning one of your found shells into a necklace for you on the way back.
Reviews
4.9
based on 323 reviews
Leah_C, Apr 2026
Bring a beach umbrella or rent one on the boat for $6. There is no shade unless you go into dense brush. Boat also sells snacks on the ride to and from the island. We walked down past where everyone was set up and found lots of great full shells in the water. The staff are fantastic, they offer turning one of your found shells into a necklace for you on the way back.
Ebony_K, Mar 2026
Horrible experience. Attempted to contact the operator and received no response for a refund. I felt unsafe taking a ferry in 30min winds
Sandy_G, Mar 2026
This shelling experience was definitely worth the trip! The day was windy and cloudy at times, but I found a lot of different kinds and unique shells! We even saw a live conch and a sponge!
Teresa_A, Feb 2026
It was a nice venture. We got lots of shells. The island is nice and clean. We would do it again. Fun day
Monica_M, Jan 2026
Bring sunscreen and an umbrella for shade. There are no trees or shade anywhere.
Bring a lot of water and snacks.
Plan on walking a lot.
Not everything on the Web site is the same in person. There are no places to rent anything, no place to buy water and the boat does not stay docked to use the bathroom.
Karen_C, Jan 2026
A lovely way to spend a few hours or a day..stunning beach with lots of shells. The operator was friendly and helpful. A great trip enjoyed by the whole party.
Jennifer_L, Sep 2025
This experience was fun for the whole family. My granddaughter enjoyed the boat ride and finding beautiful shells on the island. The shell necklace from the first mate was a big hit! Take sun screen no matter the time of the year.
Jason_B, Jul 2025
Great time, very friendly crew! You can bring everything you need for a day at the beach. Found some nice shells and a sand dollar!
Patricia_B, Jul 2025
Viator screwed us over! I realized I had made a mistake in my booking (did ferry+camping but only wanted ferry). When I called to fix the problem I was told that there was nothing they could do because it was less than 24 hours before the excursion. BS! It would take one human ten seconds to flick a switch and fix it. So, a trip that should have cost $39.95 per person cost $54.95 pp instead.
Also, it's on $35 each if you book it through Hubbards Marina. Go to their website!
The tour itself was fine.
Elizabeth_M, Jun 2025
Professional and fun. It’s a short ferry ride from The De Soto Park boat ramp to Shell island. We went on the 10am to and returned at 2:30. Perfect day!
Laura_R, Dec 2024
Excellent on time service to beautiful Shell Key. Our captain and co-captain were super friendly and knowledgeable. Every aspect was handled smoothly and as described. Highly recommend!
Larry_W, Jun 2024
The ferry ride was awesome! We all loved the beach and exploring for seashells. The dolphin's ❤️ The crew❤️
Gabriela_S, Jun 2024
Great time! Second time going and would highly recommend! Found great shells! My family love it, will be back again next year.
Deborah_R, Dec 2022
Great experience for the family and kids easy trip sharp on time relaxing
You can collect shells kids or adults
From $39.95
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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Current
Shell Key Ferry from Ft. DeSoto Boat Ramp in Tierra Verde, FL
323
20 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$39.95
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