Embark on a unique journey to an uninhabited barrier island, boasting white sandy beaches, warm waters, and abundant shelling opportunities. Our ferry service from the Fort De Soto boat ramp is an ideal choice for a memorable family outing.
The ferry operates daily during the spring and summer seasons, and nearly every day throughout the fall and winter. This 20-minute voyage offers excellent chances to observe dolphins, sea turtles, and even manatees. You're also likely to spot various seabirds during your trip to and from Shell Key.
Shell Key is also home to a significant nature preserve, with nearly half of the island designated as a protected area for native seabirds to nest undisturbed. Come and enjoy a delightful day filled with sunshine and fun!
For those who love the outdoors, we offer an overnight camping experience on Shell Key. Simply secure your 'camper' ferry ticket, obtain a camping permit from Pinellas County, and bring all your camping equipment for an unforgettable night under the stars. This is a truly special opportunity to camp on a secluded island.
✓ Restroom facilities available on board✕ Gratuities for the crew✕ Parking fees at the boat rampFerry Journey
Board our ferry at the Fort De Soto boat ramp, located at the historic Fort De Soto. This military outpost, constructed during the Spanish-American War, is listed on the "National Register of Historic Places" and is Pinellas County's largest park.
The 20-minute ferry ride will then take you to Shell Key, an uninhabited barrier island characterized by its white sands, warm waters, and plentiful shelling.
The journey itself provides a fantastic opportunity to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees!
Your mobile or paper ticket will be accepted. One ticket is required per booking.
The ferry departs from the boat ramp located before you enter Fort De Soto park. Please ensure you arrive 30-45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
As you approach the boat ramp, take the first right turn and park in the far back corner of the lot.
The ferry departs from the boat ramp located before you enter Fort De Soto park. Please ensure you arrive 30-45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
As you approach the boat ramp, take the first right turn and park in the far back corner of the lot.
Please plan to arrive 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure for check-in and boarding procedures.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Service animals are permitted on the ferry. Public transportation options are conveniently located nearby. This activity is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. Shell Key Island Camping Experience primitive, overnight camping at Shell Key Preserve. Your ferry ticket includes round-trip transportation to and from the island. Shell Key Ferry Arrive early to allow ample time for check-in and boarding. Consider the overnight camping option for a truly unique experience. Pack essentials for a day at the beach, including sunscreen and water. Respect the nature preserve and designated areas for seabirds. Check the ferry schedule for spring, summer, fall, and winter operations. To receive a full refund, please ensure your cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 237533P2
Activity offered by Hubbard's Marina via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Families Nature enthusiasts Beach lovers Campers Discover an untouched barrier island paradise. Enjoy opportunities for dolphin and manatee sightings. Explore a protected seabird nature preserve. Experience unique overnight camping possibilities. Convenient ferry service from Fort De Soto.
Population 258,308 (2020)
Elevation 134 m
Currency United States dollar
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 120 V
Emergency number 911
Capital city Washington, D.C. Average temperatures 15° Jan 17° Feb 19° Mar 23° Apr 26° May 27° Jun 28° Jul 28° Aug 27° Sept 24° Oct 20° Nov 17° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the ferry trip to Shell Key? + The ferry trip to Shell Key from the Fort De Soto boat ramp takes approximately 20 minutes.
Can I bring my pet on the ferry? + Service animals are allowed on the ferry. Please inquire about policies for other pets.
What should I do if the ferry is canceled due to bad weather? + If the ferry is canceled due to bad weather, you will be notified and arrangements will be made for a refund or rescheduling.
Is parking available at the Fort De Soto boat ramp? + Yes, parking is available at the Fort De Soto boat ramp, but please note that parking fees may apply.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Shelling adventure
smsecor7, October 2026
Excellent day trip. Captain Greg and Kristen were great. We found lots of shells and sand dollars. Definitely recommend.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
So Nice I Did It Twice!!
lukey73, September 2026
Such a great experience that I booked again and went back a second day. The staff was very helpful and made the boat ride fun. Captain Greg was great to talk with and good at his job. Both first mates Kyle on day two and Kristen?? the first day were awesome as well. Day two I booked last minute and had actually made a mistake, Marlin at the ticket booth was able to fix things and got me the proper refund very quickly. Marlin remembered me from the previous day and made sure I was taken care of. He was a very polite young man and knew exactly how to fix everything. I would recommend going during the week, it was so peaceful, at one point I could look both ways down the beach and I was the only person, it was incredible. Well worth every penny!!!
Response from the operator · Hubbards Marina Booking the Shell Key Ferry again the very next day might be one of the best compliments we can receive, Lukw! We’re glad Captain Greg, Kyle, and Kristen helped make both trips so enjoyable, and that Marlin was able to quickly straighten out the booking issue and make sure you were taken care of.
That peaceful stretch of beach you described is exactly what makes Shell Key Preserve such a special place to explore, especially on a quieter weekday.
Thank you for spending two days with Hubbard’s Marina from Fort De Soto in Tierra Verde. We really appreciate the recommendation and are happy both visits felt well worth it!
★★★★★ Viator review
We were able to see...
Michele_H, August 2026
We were able to see dolphins! It was an amazing experience, I went solo and will be doing this again with the family!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
fun time
bigmack349, July 2026
kids had a great time! lots of shells to collect.
Response from the operator · Hubbards Marina Thank you for taking the time to share your experience! We're so happy to hear your kids had a great time exploring Shell Key and collecting shells. Watching families discover the island's natural beauty and head home with special treasures is one of our favorite parts of offering the Shell Key Ferry.
We appreciate you choosing Hubbard's Marina for your adventure departing from Fort De Soto in Tierra Verde. Thank you for your recommendation, and we hope to welcome your family back for another fun day of shelling and exploring the next time you're in the area!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Great time
raykU9926OC, July 2026
had a great time captain ron and Kristen where great very friendly. made my birthday a special one for sure.
Response from the operator · Hubbards Marina What a wonderful way to celebrate your birthday, Ray! We're so glad you chose to spend your special day aboard our Shell Key Ferry and that Captain Ron and Kristen helped make it such a memorable experience. We'll be sure to share your kind words with them—they'll be thrilled to know they made your birthday even more enjoyable.
It means a lot that you chose Hubbard's Marina for your Shell Key Ferry adventure departing from Fort De Soto in Tierra Verde. We hope this birthday celebration is one you'll look back on with great memories, and we can't wait to welcome you back for another relaxing day on the water. Happy Birthday!
Show more reviews 
Top pick
Highly rated
Top pick
Free cancellation
Free cancellation
Top pick
Top pick
Top pick
Top pick
Top pick
Top pick
Top pick
