Dolphin Explorer

Part citizen-science research boat, part sightseeing tour, the Dolphin Explorer takes visitors aboard as a way to continue its 10,000 Islands Survey Team Dolphin Project. If there's a tour where you're going to see dolphins, this is it, because the researchers know the populations by name - and size and the markings on their fins and tails. The large pontoon boat scans the waters in the bays and estuaries around Marco Island on three-hour tours at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. The researchers on board get pictures of each one they spot, with the help of passengers. Anyone who spots a new dolphin gets to name it. On the way, passengers hear lessons on dolphins and other sea creatures from an on-board naturalist. The excursion includes a shelling stop on a barrier island and complimentary family and group photos.