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PRIVATE EGMONT KEY TOURS FROM ST PETE
HALF-DAY SNORKELING CRUISE TO 3 ISLANDS-EGMONT KEY, SHELL KEY, & OUTBACK KEY
⭐ Private charter (up to 6) • 4.5 hours • Egmont Key Sunken Ruins snorkeling • Snorkel gear included
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Avoid the crowds and enjoy more time in the water with Island Ferry’s private snorkeling tour from St. Petersburg, Florida. Departing from Tierra Verde Marina Resort, this half-day island hopping cruise takes your group to Egmont Key, Shell Key, and Outback Key for snorkeling, swimming, shelling, and unforgettable wildlife encounters—all with your own dedicated captain and crew.
Half-Day Island Hopping Cruise to Egmont Key, Shell Key, and Outback Key
This St. Pete private snorkeling tour to Egmont Key is designed for guests who want a quieter, more personalized experience than crowded commercial boats. You’ll visit three incredible local islands—Egmont Key, Shell Key, and Outback Key—with plenty of time for snorkeling, swimming, and beach exploring for sand dollars. Our smaller boats can access more secluded areas, giving your group the freedom to enjoy the water at your own pace. For more about Shell Key, visit our Shell Key Visitor's Guide online.
Egmont Key Snorkeling at the Sunken Ruins
Egmont Key is one of the best snorkeling destinations near St. Pete, known for its historic setting and clear-water snorkeling. The island is also home to a late-1800s military fortress area (formerly Fort Dade) and the famous artificial reef called the Sunken Ruins.
The Sunken Ruins snorkeling area is shallow—around 9 feet deep—and conditions are often clear enough to see straight to the bottom, making it an ideal spot to explore Florida marine life.
Guaranteed Snorkeling Time at Egmont Key
We guarantee at least a full hour (or more) of snorkeling at the Sunken Ruins of Egmont Key, so your group gets real in-water time—not just a quick stop.
Shell Key and Outback Key: Shallow Water, Shelling, and Sand Dollars
After Egmont Key, your private tour continues to Shell Key and Outback Key, where you’ll explore clear, shallow waters and beautiful shoreline areas known for shelling and sand dollars. These protected nature preserve waters are perfect for relaxing swims, beach walks, and more snorkeling as your group island-hops through some of the most scenic spots in the St. Pete area.
Wildlife Sightings on Your Private Snorkeling Cruise
Because this tour cruises through protected preserve waters, wildlife sightings are a common highlight. Depending on the day and season, guests may spot dolphins, manatees, rays, gopher tortoises, and seasonal shorebirds while traveling between islands. Every trip is different, and that “what will we see today?” factor is part of what makes this private snorkeling tour so memorable.
Private Charter Comfort with Dedicated Captain and Crew
This private half-day snorkeling tour includes a dedicated captain and crew, personalized attention, and the freedom to explore without crowds. You’ll have a comfortable, shaded place to take breaks between swims, and our crew focuses on first-class service so your group can relax and enjoy the day.
Book Your Private Snorkeling Tour to Egmont Key Today
Availability is limited because this is a private charter for up to six guests per boat. Reserve your date now for the best chance at your preferred day.
See our Frequently Asked Questions.
We offer other amazing tours in St Pete Beach, such as the kayaking adventures to Shell Key, as well as dolphin cruises that take you to Shell Key. The sandbar parties are all the rage, and there are two options available, both being private charters that take you to where the partying is happening. The Shell Key sandbar party is suitable for all kinds of folks, while the Passage Key party is more for the free-spirited people (wink-wink) Our small-group sunset cruise is the perfect way to end the day on a relaxing cruise over calm waters. Our Tours-Central page has summaries of all of our tours.
Other Great Experiences
Tour Details, Departure Time, and Pricing
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Tour Length: Half-day (4.5 hours)
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Departure Time: 9:00 AM
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Departs From: Tierra Verde Marina Resort in St Pete
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Private Charter Price: $549 (up to 6 people) + gratuity
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Group Size: Maximum 6 people per boat (regardless of age/weight). For additional people we have additional boats available.
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Gratuity: 18% added
What’s Included
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Coolers with ice for your food and drinks
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Snorkel gear and floating noodles
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We guarantee at least a full hour or more of snorkeling at the sunken ruins of Egmont Key.
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First-class service from our crew, on our luxury pontoon boats.
What To Bring
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Food, drinks and your favorite cocktails.
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Hat, sunglasses and sun screen.
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Swimsuit and towel, of course.
Cancellation Policy
No refunds for cancellations less than 48 hours before your scheduled departure. No refunds for "no shows". We give FULL refunds if Island Ferry cancels for inclement weather.
TOUR CALENDAR
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Egmont Key Snorkeling Tour
Is this a private snorkeling tour?
Yes. This is a private snorkeling charter, reserved exclusively for your group. You’ll have your own captain, crew, and boat for the entire trip. We have multiple boats so we can accommodate groups larger than 6 people.
How long is the Egmont Key snorkeling tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, giving your group plenty of time to snorkel, swim, and explore multiple islands.
Which islands do we visit on the tour?
This tour includes stops at Egmont Key, Shell Key, and Outback Key, depending on conditions. Each location offers a different experience, from snorkeling to shelling and shallow-water swimming.
What makes Egmont Key snorkeling special?
Egmont Key is known for the Sunken Ruins, a shallow artificial reef made of historic stone blocks. The snorkeling area is typically around 9 feet deep, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of swimmers.
How much snorkeling time do we get at Egmont Key?
We guarantee at least one full hour or more of snorkeling at the Sunken Ruins of Egmont Key, depending on conditions and your group’s pace.
Do you provide snorkel gear?
Yes. Island Ferry provides snorkel gear and floating noodles for all guests. You’re welcome to bring your own gear if you prefer.
Is this snorkeling tour good for beginners?
Yes. The snorkeling areas are relatively shallow, and the private charter format allows your group to move at a comfortable pace. The crew is always nearby to assist.
What wildlife might we see during the tour?
Wildlife sightings vary by day and season, but guests often see dolphins, manatees, rays, sea turtles, and shorebirds while traveling between islands.
Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from Tierra Verde Marina Resort in St Pete, FL. Exact meeting instructions and parking details are provided after booking.
Can we bring food and drinks onboard?
Yes. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks. Island Ferry provides coolers with ice for your convenience.
What should we bring with us?
Please bring:
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Swimsuits and towels
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Sunscreen
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Water and snacks
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A waterproof phone case (recommended)
What happens if the weather is bad?
If Island Ferry cancels due to unsafe weather conditions, you’ll receive a full refund. Cancellations within 48 hours of departure are non-refundable unless the tour is canceled by Island Ferry.