Island Hopping and Snorkeling Trip

Explore the Best of Tampa Bay’s Islands on a Flexible Snorkeling Trip

The Island Hopping and Snorkeling Trip from Beachside Charters offers a unique way to enjoy the coast of St. Petersburg, USA. Priced at $600 per group (up to 5 people), this 6-hour private tour is designed for those who want a personalized experience exploring the area’s top islands. The tour departs from Maximo Boat Ramp at 8:00 am, with a mobile ticket making check-in straightforward.

What makes this adventure stand out is its customizable nature: only your group participates, and you can choose to focus on snorkeling ruins of Fort Dade at Egmont Key, shell collecting at Shell Island State Park, or swimming for sand dollars at Sand Dollar Island. While it’s ideal for families and friends, those with moderate physical fitness will find this tour comfortably suits their pace. It is important to note that weather conditions impact the experience, with cancellations possible if the weather turns poor.

Key Points

• Private tour experience with only your group participating
• Flexible itinerary allowing customization of stops like Egmont Key, Shell Key, or Sand Dollar Island
• Duration of approximately 6 hours with a start at 8:00 am from Maximo Boat Ramp
• Includes opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, and other sea life
• Cost of $600, suitable for up to 5 people
• Cancellation is free if made 24 hours in advance

Departure from Maximo Boat Ramp and Meeting Details

The tour begins at Maximo Boat Ramp in St. Petersburg, providing a convenient starting point near public transportation. The early 8:00 am start allows plenty of daylight for a full day of island exploration. The private nature of this tour means only your group is onboard, creating a personalized atmosphere. After six hours of island hopping, the tour concludes back at the initial meeting point.

The Customizable Itinerary and Island Options

Travelers can choose how they want to spend their time during this flexible tour. The options include snorkeling at Fort Dade ruins on Egmont Key, an island known for its historical significance from the Spanish-American War. Alternatively, you can explore Shell Key State Park to collect shells or enjoy swimming and searching for sand dollars at Sand Dollar Island. This customization allows for a tailored experience aligned with personal interests.

Discovering Egmont Key State Park

Egmont Key is a highlight of this trip, offering an uninhabited island environment with historic sites and vibrant marine life. The Fort Dade ruins present an opportunity to snorkel around remnants of the Spanish-American War, providing both historical interest and underwater adventure. The island’s natural beauty makes it a compelling stop for those who enjoy history and nature.

Shell Key State Park: Shell Collecting and Nature Walks

Shell Key provides a different vibe, with its abundant shells and shallow waters. Visitors can search for shells, making this stop especially appealing to beachcombers. The island is uninhabited, which means fewer crowds and a more relaxed environment for collecting shells and enjoying the scenery.

Sand Dollar Island: Swimming and Sand Dollar Hunting

Sand Dollar Island is perfect for swimmers and those looking to hunt for sand dollars in their natural habitat. The calm waters around the island make it easy to enjoy a swim, and the opportunity to find sand dollars adds a fun element for all ages. This stop is especially suitable for those who want a more laid-back, water-focused experience.

Wildlife Encounters and Sea Life Spotting

Throughout the tour, dolphins are often seen playing nearby, while manatees occasionally surface in the waters. The marine environment is lively, and sea life sightings are a common highlight. This makes the trip ideal for nature lovers eager to observe sea creatures in their natural habitat.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Weather Considerations

Booking in advance is recommended, with an average wait of 7 days. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, providing flexibility in case of weather changes or scheduling conflicts. Since the experience requires good weather, cancellations for poor weather are possible, but travelers will be offered alternatives or refunds. The moderate physical activity level ensures that most people with average fitness can comfortably participate.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This private island-hopping adventure is ideal for families, friends, and small groups seeking a customized day on the water. Its flexibility makes it suitable for those interested in snorkeling, shell collecting, or simply relaxing at different islands. However, participants should be comfortable with moderate physical activity and prepared for weather-dependent scheduling.

Final Thoughts on the Island Hopping and Snorkeling Tour

The 6-hour private trip from Beachside Charters offers a personalized exploration of some of the Tampa Bay area’s most interesting islands. Its customizable stops mean every trip can be tailored to your preferences, whether you’re into history, nature, or water play. The opportunity to see dolphins and manatees enriches the experience, making it appealing to wildlife enthusiasts.

While the price point of $600 per group is reasonable for a full-day private experience for up to 5 people, it’s worth considering the weather dependency and moderate physical level required. This tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and personal customization, making it a solid choice for those wanting a private, flexible day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $600?
The price covers the entire 6-hour private tour for your group of up to 5 people, with customizable stops and sea life viewing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Maximo Boat Ramp in St. Petersburg, making logistics straightforward.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather looks bad?
Yes, free cancellation is available 24 hours in advance, and if the tour is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered another date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for families, provided participants are comfortable with moderate physical activity.

What sea life might I see on this trip?
Dolphins and manatees are commonly seen, along with a variety of marine creatures visible while snorkeling.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Very flexible — you can choose to spend the day snorkeling at Egmont Key, shell collecting at Shell Key, or relaxing at Sand Dollar Island.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring towels, sunscreen, water, and appropriate clothing for water activities. The tour provider recommends moderate physical fitness, so be prepared for some walking and swimming.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
This experience requires moderate physical activity, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.