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Shell Key Ferry
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Overview
Walk along the beach and collect all the shells you could want!
Duration: 2-6 Hours
Meeting Point: Fort Desoto Boat Ramp
Description: Travel from Fort De Soto Boat Ramp to Shell Key on the ferry boat!
Camping Available
- Get your overnight ferry ticket here.
- Get your camping permit from Pinellas County here.
– You will need the vessel #DO1271997 - Pack your camping gear and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
What is Included: - 46 foot ferry - Refreshments/snacks available
- Covered, comfortable seating
- Clean restroom
- Modern snorkeling equipment
- All tours fully narrated, informative and fun!
Meeting And Pickup
You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup
Meeting point
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Additional Info
Departure Location & Directions
IMPORTANT: This trip DOES NOT DEPART from John's Pass. It departs from the Fort De Soto County Park Boat Ramp.
- Do NOT enter Fort De Soto Park. If you reach the guard gate, you’ve gone too far.
- For directions to the boat ramp, click here: Directions to Fort De Soto Boat Ramp
Arrival Time & Meeting Location
- Arrival Time: Please arrive at least 60 minutes prior to your departure. This will give you time to park, get through traffic, and check-in at the booth.
- Meeting Location: The ticket booth is located at the Fort De Soto Boat Ramp at the far corner, opposite from where you entered the parking lot.
- Parking:
- Important: Parking is $6 (not $5 as previously mentioned). Pay this fee at the electronic parking pay station.
- When you enter the boat ramp parking lot, take the first right and continue to the end of the lot. The boat, booth, and dock will be on your left. Park in any available space.
Important Reminders
- Late Arrival Policy: Please ensure you are checked in at least 15 minutes before departure. Any unclaimed reservations in the final 15 minutes may be given to other guests waiting to board.
- Lost? If you have trouble finding us, feel free to call or text our office at (727) 393-1947.
What to Bring
- Camera: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture memories and wildlife.
- Clothing: Wear beach clothes, a bathing suit, and a cover-up. Sun protection is highly recommended.
- Food & Drinks: Feel free to bring a small cooler with food and drinks (the boat does not offer food or drinks).
- Beach Gear: Bring beach chairs, umbrellas, toys, shelling bags, etc., but be mindful of limited space on the boat.
- Bug Spray: A good idea, especially during the warmer months (mosquitoes may be present).
Prohibited Items:
- Alcohol, glass containers, pets, kites, and drones are prohibited as the island is a wildlife preserve.
Due to USCG safety regulations, carts are not allowed unless they are collapsible and fully broken down before loading the boat.
Departure Location (Again)
- Location: This trip departs from the Fort De Soto Boat Ramp, located at 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out the FAQs page for more helpful information.
Extra Information
- Weather: Check the weather for your trip using the Hubbard's Marina Weather Links.
- Gallery: See what we’ve been catching in the Hubbard's Marina Gallery.
- Fishing Reports: Read the latest fishing reports and dolphin sightings in the Hubbard's Marina Newsletter.
- Private Charters: Interested in a private experience? Check out the Private Charters offered by Hubbard's Marina.
Note: All trips are subject to weather conditions and minimum number of fares.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policy
1. Cancellations Made 24 Hours or More in Advance
- No charge for cancellations made at least 24 hours before the scheduled trip or event.
- Example: If your reservation is for 10:00 AM on Saturday, you must cancel by 10:00 AM on Friday to avoid any fees.
2. Cancellations Made with Less than 24 Hours’ Notice
- A 50% cancellation fee will apply for cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled trip.
- Example: If your reservation costs $100 and you cancel less than 24 hours before the trip, you will be charged $50.
3. No-Shows
- Full charge for each seat reserved if you fail to show up without notifying us.
- Example: If you reserved 2 seats at $100 each and do not show up, your credit card will be charged $200.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.