Shell Key Ferry from Ft. DeSoto Boat Ramp in Tierra Verde, FL

4.9
(304 reviews)

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20 minutes (approximately)

This trip is one of a kind… If you want to travel to an uninhabited barrier island with white sand, warm water, and shelling galore, our ferry to Shell Key from the Fort De Soto boat ramp is a great choice for you and your family! Our ferry boat operates daily in the spring and summer and nearly every day in the fall and winter. This 20 minute trip offers great chances to spot dolphins, sea turtles and even manatees! We often spot sea birds on the ride to and from Shell Key!

Shell Key is also home to a large nature preserve, where nearly half of the island is blocked to allow the native seabirds a section of undisturbed beach. Come out and enjoy a beautiful day of fun in the sun!

For camping enthusiasts, we offer an overnight experience on Shell Key! All you need is your “camper” ferry ticket, a camping permit from Pinellas County, and all your camping gear to have an epic night under the stars! This is an unbelievably unique opportunity to camp out on a secluded island.

What's Included

Restroom on board
Gratuities
Parking Fees

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The ferry departs from the boat ramp before you enter Fort De Soto park. Please arrive 30-45 minutes prior to departure. As you pull in the boat ramp, take your first right and park in the far back corner.

End point
This activity ends in a different location. You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.

Ticket Redemption Point

What to expect

Board our ferry at Fort De Soto boat ramp, at the historic Fort De Soto, a military outpost constructed during the Spanish American Ware. It is listed in the "National Register of Historic Places" and Pinellas County's largest park. The 20-minute ferry will then travel to Shell Key, an uninhabited barrier island with white sand, warm water and shelling galore. The trip between is a great chance to spot dolphins, sea turtles and even manatees!

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Hubbard's Marina

Tags

Ferry Services
Water Transfers
Excellent Quality
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Curated Catalog
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.9 Based on 304 304 reviews
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