OPEN for Shell Key Tours

Advance reservations required!



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Don't see a date you need…..call/text 813-748-3199


Updated June 2026

Welcome aboard, mate.

Greg “Capt Yak” Stoppelmoor - Owner & Operator of Capt Yak


- Our Excursions -


The Shell Key Tour with Capt Yak

You will be taken on an Amazing Adventure in one of the most pristine Mangrove Preserves in the area.

You will be lead through the preserve to areas that will be sure to find unique creatures that live below and above the water.

Paddle with ease on the some of the newest, most comfortable and best paddling Sit-On-Top Single or Tandem Kayaks.

We will venture through mangrove tunnels, over beds of seagrasses and sandbars while encountering wildlife.

Capt Yak will share his knowledge and mesmerize you by the stories he shares with you about the wildlife you encounter.

Departure times vary between 9:00am-3:00pm and are based on tide levels to ensure the Most Memorable Experience!

This tour is especially popular for Couples and Family Groups of all ages!

Rates begin at $55.00 Per Person

(2 person Minimum)


Hobie Pedal Drive Kayak

The Ultimate Kayak Tour

Guided Hobie Pedal Kayak Tour (Small Group)

2 -6 Guests

Eva in one of our Hobie Mirage Outback Pedal Kayak

Pedal Kayaking with Capt Yak is the perfect way to experience the area waterways. Hobie Kayaks are considered the Cadillac of Kayaks. The pedal powered propulsion is designed to be much easier than paddling and navigating the waterways. Using your feet and legs to push the fin drive will allow you to explore with minimal effort, comfort and stability. There is a rudder control that you will use easily with one hand to control your direction.
This mode of kayaking will allow us to travel further and see more than in a traditional kayak.
There are many options to explore during this tour.


Friends Milu & Dean in Hobie 13’ Revolution Kayaks

Options can include any of the following:

  • Mangrove/seagrass beds: Plenty of wildlife to encounter in the mangroves and over seagrass. Venturing through the tunnels are tide dependent.

  • Wildlife: All tours will have wildlife encounters depending on the time of year. These encounters can include; dolphins, manatees, stingrays, sharks, fish and various bird species. 100% wildlife tours available.

  • Sandbar/Beach combing: These stops can be utilized to search for the wide array of shells that can be found in the area and we can bring along some snorkel and masks.

  • Beach relaxation: Beach chairs and umbrella provide to sit and relax and take a dip in the warm gulf water in a remote outer island.

  • Paddleboard: We can tow a couple paddleboards with ease, and you can paddle in some of the shallows for an added adventure at one of the stops. (Limited qty)

  • History: There is plenty of history in the area that can be covered and explored from early Natives, Spanish arrival, Civil War to Natural disasters.

  • Fishing: Can include us bringing a couple poles for youto try your luck while making a stop on a sandbar, beach or pedaling around the Mangroves. (Additionl fee for 100% Fishing Charter)

  • Lunch: Deli sub, light snacks and water provided with cooler. (Additional $30/per person)

  • Skyway Bridge/Egmont Key Adventure: This is for the more adventurous and is dependent on weather and tide conditions.

26” Redfish

Beach Canopy & Chairs


Paddling with Cormorants

Paddling with Cormorants

Private Eco/Sandbar Tour at Shell Key with Capt Yak

Call/Text for Personalized Reservation.

  • Private tours available at Shell Key Preserve

  • Customize your tour experience with various options: Eco, Wildlife, Mangrove, Sandbar, Beach Combing

  • 2- 12 Guests (Larger groups accepted on request)

  • This tour is best to experience on Capt Yak’s Comfortable Easy Paddling Tandem Kayaks

  • No experience …. No problem…. paddling tutorial included.

  • Whether it is for your company, family, bachelor/bachelorette, school; The Private tour is sure to be an unforgettable outing or team-building exercise.

Tandem Kayak

Rate: $325.00 per group up to 8 guests, additional guests $40/per person


Group Fun!

Sandbar Sunset

Sunset Tour at Shell Key

Available November - February

Capt Yak will keep you captivated throughout the tour with his knowledge of the Wildlife and History of Shell Key Preserve.

This is casual float around the preserve while you witness the surroundings as the Sun makes its way over the Mangroves into the Gulf.

Tour departs 2.5 hours prior to Sunset.

This tour is great for couples, family, friends and coworkers.

Single and tandem kayaks.

Rates begin at $65.00 Per Person
4 Guest Minimum