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

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

by Hubbard's Marina

20 min
$35.96$39.95 on ViatorSave 10%/person
From
$35.96$39.95 on ViatorSave 10%per person

Choose from 2 available options

20 min
Starting time
Friday 11 September 2026
Free cancellation until 10 Sept 2026.
$71.91$79.90Save 10%
2 adults × $35.96
All taxes and fees included

How do you want to book?

Confirmation before Wed, 9 Sept - card's only charged if it's a yes. If it's a no, still time to book on Viator.

Book on Viator Confirmed right away, but you pay full price.$79.90
20 min
$71.91$79.90Save 10%
2 adults × $35.96
All taxes and fees included

Overview

This ferry ride from the Fort De Soto boat ramp in Tierra Verde to Shell Key takes about 20 minutes. The ferry runs daily in spring and summer, and most days during fall and winter. Passengers may see dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, and various sea birds along the route. Shell Key is an uninhabited barrier island with white sandy beaches and warm water, featuring a large nature preserve that restricts access to nearly half the island to protect native seabirds. Visitors can spend the day on the island enjoying the beach and wildlife. For those interested in camping, the ferry service offers a special camper ticket that allows overnight stays on Shell Key. Campers must have a Pinellas County camping permit and bring their own gear to stay overnight on this remote island. The ferry includes on-board restrooms for passenger convenience.

Highlights

20-minute ferry ride from Ft. DeSoto boat ramp
Daily service in spring and summer, most days in fall and winter
Wildlife sightings including dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees
Access to Shell Key nature preserve with white sandy beaches
Overnight camping allowed with permit and camper ticket
On-board restrooms available during the ferry trip

What's included

Use of on-board restrooms during the ferry trip

What's not included

Gratuities for the ferry staff
Parking fees at the boat ramp

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

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.

Cancellation policy

  • Cancel at least 24 hours before start for a full refund.

Additional info

1–15 travelers per booking
Mobile ticket
Service animals are welcome
Reachable by public transport
Suitable for all fitness levels
Total
$71.91Save 10% vs Viator