Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 499 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass worth booking?
Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass is a 3-hour experience in St Petersburg, United States, from $45 per person. It scores 84 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 499 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 84 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (499)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $45 per person
Our 3hr Shell Key Shelling Trip is offered from Hubbard’s Marina inside Johns Pass and offers around one hour on the island exploring and shelling with around an hour ride down the back protected bay waters on a relaxing
What you get
About this experience
Our 3hr Shell Key Shelling Trip is offered from Hubbard’s Marina inside Johns Pass and offers around one hour on the island exploring and shelling with around an hour ride down the back protected bay waters on a relaxing, safe, and fun trip onboard the HUB Cat 49. On the ride back to Johns Pass, we will cruise up our beautiful gulf beaches when weather allows, if it’s a little bumpy the ride back will also be in the back protected bay waters. We will often spot dolphins, seabirds, manatees and other wildlife on the ride out and back!
What's included
Included
- On-board restrooms
Not included
- Gratuities
- Snacks
- Parking fees
What you'll see and do
Tierra Verde
Explore Shell Key Preserve, located in the mouth of Tampa Bay, a 195 acre barrier Island. You will experience beautiful, calm and protected back bay waters and spot dolphins, seabirds, manatees and other wildlife on the trip.
60 minutes here
John's Pass Village & Boardwalk
The "Pass", as locals refer to it, was created by a hurricane on September 27, 1848. A pirate, John Levique, made the first passage through the newly created pass. Hence the name, Johns Pass. Over one hundred merchants with unique retail shopping, a variety of restaurants and local tour operators.
Pass by without stopping
Madeira Beach
Often referred to as “Mad Beach” by the locals, this beach hosts soft, white sand and is a great place to spot dolphins.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
St Petersburg
Located inside beautiful Johns Pass, directly below Hooters on the water, closest to the Johns Pass Bridge.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Located inside beautiful Johns Pass, directly below Hooters on the water, closest to the Johns Pass Bridge.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Hubbard's Marina
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 496 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Good for families
3 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
496 verified traveler reviews for Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great tour 🐚⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We did a tour through dolphins landing. Not only did the captain and his partner take us to shell island, we also did some dolphin and manatee watching 🐬😊 They provided cold water and soft drinks on the boat. There were only 9 people including us so it was a semi private tour. We were at shell island for 2 hours. You do have to go out a bit to find some bigger shells. However it is still really nice to stay close to shore. We did bring snorkel equipment and were able to get some beautiful shells pretty close. We saw a couple of manatees at shell island and 3 LARGE sting rays. There are no bathrooms, drinks or food so prepare ahead of time. I highly recommend this excursion. It is nice to get out and see what beauty the gulf has to offer ☀️⛱️
Response from the operator: Manatees, dolphins, huge stingrays, beautiful shells, and time in the Gulf waters, you certainly got to experience a lot of what makes Shell Key so special! We're glad you came prepared with snorkeling gear and were able to discover some beautiful shells while exploring the island. We also appreciate you sharing helpful advice for future visitors about preparing for time on this undeveloped barrier island. Shell Key Preserve offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the natural side of Florida's Gulf Coast, and every trip can bring a different wildlife surprise. Thank you for the five-star recommendation and for choosing Hubbard's Marina for your Shell Key adventure from John's Pass in Madeira Beach!
via Tripadvisor
It was great! Shelling...
It was great! Shelling was amazing, found so many sand dollars! Beach area was as beautiful and saw a few manatees!!!
via Viator
Fun afternoon seeking sea shells
We had a great afternoon. Captain Robin, and 1st mate Kristen, were knowledgeable, fun and interacted with everyone in the boat making for a fun and informative ride to and from the beach. Everyone found beautiful seashells and enjoyed the warm ocean waters. 1st make, Kristen made all passengers who wanted a necklace using one of each passengers newly found sea shell.
Response from the operator: A beautiful afternoon on Shell Key, warm Gulf waters, and plenty of seashells to bring home sounds like a wonderful way to spend the day! We're thrilled Captain Robin and First Mate Kristen made the ride just as enjoyable as the destination with their local knowledge, fun personalities, and interaction with everyone aboard. Having Kristen turn a favorite shell from the day into a necklace is such a special way to remember the adventure. Thank you for choosing Hubbard's Marina for your Three-Hour Shelling Cruise from John's Pass in Madeira Beach. We hope that necklace brings back great memories until it's time for your next Shell Key treasure hunt!
via Tripadvisor
Worth every penny 💙
I am so glad we came across this trip as things to do. I have three kids one being almost 2. The boat ride to shell island was lovely. And when we arrived we weren’t disappointed. My son who is 9 found countless sand dollars which he was excited about! And we collected so many shells and spent the rest of the time swimming around in the ocean. On the way back we seen dolphins. The staff was very funny and they made shell necklaces for whoever wanted one. If you have a toddler, I’d bring floaties or life jacket vest. Highly recommend bringing goggles for diving in the water looking for shells. I’d bring a mesh bag to put the shells in, unless you wanna purchase one from them for 4$. Which is reasonably priced. And definitely came in handy. Some ppl found some massive shells. Over all the trip was amazing. And something we’ll do again in the future.
via Viator
Great crew!
Great crew! We had about 1.5 hrs at the beach for shelling. Wear swimsuits and bring goggles or snorkel masks. We found many sand dollars and conch shells! Park at the parking garage and get tickets validated for $7.50 at check in. Drinks and snacks available aboard for very reasonable prices. On the way back Jess will make you a necklace from one of your favorite small shells. Very smooth ride out and we saw a few dolphins.
Response from the operator: Sand dollars, conch shells, dolphins, and a keepsake made from one of your own finds. That sounds like a great Shell Key adventure! We're glad you enjoyed plenty of time exploring the beach, had a smooth ride, and found so many treasures along the way. The shell necklace is always a fun way to bring a little piece of the experience home. We also appreciate you sharing your tips for future guests planning a Three-Hour Shelling Cruise. Thank you for choosing Hubbard's Marina at John's Pass in Madeira Beach, and we hope to welcome you back for another day of shelling and exploring Shell Key!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 175
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 84
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for St Petersburg.
How much does Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass cost?
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Prices start at $45 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in St Petersburg usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in St Petersburg is not rushed.
Is Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 84 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 499 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in St Petersburg, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass?
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Around 175 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in St Petersburg can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in St Petersburg and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Three Hour Shelling Cruise to Shell Key Preserve from John's Pass start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central St Petersburg within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in St Petersburg?
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St Petersburg pairs beach time with a dense arts district: Dali Museum entry, mural walking tours, clear-kayak paddles through mangrove tunnels and boat runs out to Egmont Key and Shell Key. On Outty we rank every St Petersburg experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Clear Kayak Tour of Shell Key Preserve and Tampa Bay Area, St. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour, Island Sunset and Skyway Light Show - 3hr Boat Cruise in St. Pete. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit St Petersburg?
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October to April, before the summer heat and afternoon storms. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in St Petersburg?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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