FAQs
WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO GET TO SHELL KEY?
John's Pass Island Tours, of course! Our captains love sharing the beauty of our area with guests. Because we're all locals and have spent years getting to know the area we have many exciting offerings! Whether you take the boat to Shell Key or join us for a sandbar party, we know you and your guests will have an unforgettable experience.
CAN MORE THAN SIX PEOPLE CRUISE AT THE SAME TIME?
US Coast Guard regulations allow only six people, regardless of age. If you’re looking for a larger party, our big Tiki Boat holds up to 18 people.
ARE CHILDREN ALLOWED?
Yes. Children are allowed. Children under the age of six are required to wear a life jacket which we have on board or you can bring your own. Please let us know if you plan to bring more than two children so we can make the appropriate accommodations for life jackets.
ARE DOGS ALLOWED ON SHELL KEY?
Service Dogs are always welcome. However, because you will be travelling in protected bird habitat areas non-service dogs cannot join us.
CAN I PLAY MY OWN MUSIC ONBOARD?
Yes. We have Bluetooth speaker systems that can sync to your phone and choice of music.
CAN I GET IN THE WATER?
Yes. You'll get your feet wet walking through our white sand to the islands, and swimming and snorkeling are great options.
IS THERE A BATHROOM ON THE BOAT?
No. But, we have a number of places along the way that we can stop if necessary, and a bathroom at the dock. Don't forget, you'll probably be spending alot of your time floating in our beautiful clear water....just sayin'.
IS THE TOUR WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?
Due to the nature of the tour it may be challenging. BUT, we can make every effort to accommodate any special needs. Please call us with any concerns and we can do our very best!
DO YOU PROVIDE FOOD AND DRINK?
We do not provide any food or drink, however, you may feel free to bring your own food or snacks. On land, we have the Tipsy Tiki Bar where alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. We do supply a cooler with ice aboard the boat. You must be 21 or over to drink alcoholic beverages.
HOW LONG IS THE TOUR?
The start to finish time is 4 hours. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure. Trips MUST return at their scheduled time and we are unfortunately not able to extend the trip.
SHOULD I TIP MY CAPTAIN?
YES, Please!! Our Captains pride themselves in offering unforgettable experiences and have spent years educating themselves on the areas. Each Captain has their own Venmo, CashApp, etc. But of course, cash is always appreciated.
ARE THERE LIFE JACKETS AVAILABLE ON BOARD?
Yes, there is a type 1 PFD for every passenger along with all the U.S. Coast Guard requirements for the vessel including a first aid kit.
WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS?
Welcome to Florida!! It is not uncommon for small rain showers to appear. We suggest not worrying too much about your weather app. Come on down as planned, and we'll assess the situation just before departure as weather changes by the minute here! We've even got a few places to hang out until the rain passes. Our Captains have spent years in the area and are very familiar with the weather patterns.