Question 1

Are you located in St. Andrews State Park?

Accepted Answer

No. Shell Island Shuttle & Pontoon Boats is located at 5709 North Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32408. Across the street from Capt Anderson's Restaurant. Always free parking.

Question 2

What months are you open?

Accepted Answer

We are seasonal and typically open from March through November. Our exact opening and closing dates depend on weather conditions. We may open as early as February if weather permits. The shuttle runs March through October and is closed November through February.

Question 3

What's the difference between a shuttle and a ferry to Shell Island?

Accepted Answer

There's no difference — they're the same thing! People call it a shuttle, a ferry, or a water taxi, but it's all the same boat ride to Shell Island. The shuttle runs March through October: hourly from 10am, Tuesday to Saturday, in spring and fall, and every 30 minutes from 9am in summer, with hourly trips on Sundays.

Question 4

What services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer three services: Shell Island Shuttle and ferry service with frequent departures, Pontoon Boat Rentals for self-guided exploration (must be 21+ to operate), and Slide Boat Adventures featuring a double-decker pontoon with a built-in water slide.

Question 5

Do I need a boating license to rent a pontoon?

Accepted Answer

If you were born after January 1, 1988, Florida law requires you to have completed a boater safety course and have proof with you before operating a motorized boat. Operators must be at least 21 years of age. We provide a safety orientation, but the boater course must be completed before your trip.

Question 6

Do you offer dolphin tours?

Accepted Answer

We do not currently offer dolphin tours. Our services include the Shell Island Shuttle, Pontoon Boat Rentals, and Slide Boat Adventures. You may spot dolphins during your trip though!

Question 7

Do you operate in bad weather?

Accepted Answer

Safety is our top priority. We do not operate during rough water conditions, storms, or high winds. Check our website or call 850-235-4004 for daily operating status.

Question 8

How often does the shuttle depart?

Accepted Answer

From March to May and from August 15 through October, the shuttle departs every hour from 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday. The last trip to the island is at 2pm and the last return at 4pm; we're closed Sunday and Monday. In summer (June 1 to August 14), departures run every 30 minutes from 9am to 5pm, and hourly on Sundays. The shuttle is closed November through February.

Question 9

What should I bring to Shell Island?

Accepted Answer

We recommend bringing sunscreen, a towel, water, snacks, and a cooler if you'd like. Snorkel gear is available for rent at our dock. Shell Island has no facilities (no restrooms, no stores), so bring everything you'll need for the day. There's no shade on Shell Island, so you're more than welcome to bring an umbrella with you.

Question 10

What's included with a pontoon rental?

Accepted Answer

Every pontoon rental includes a full tank of gas, free parking at our dock, and all required safety equipment. All you need to bring are your favorite people, food, drinks, and a sense of adventure!

Question 11

How do I get to Shell Island from your dock?

Accepted Answer

Simply arrive at our dock at 5709 North Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (across the street from Capt Anderson's Restaurant). Park for free, check in, and hop on the next shuttle. From March through October, departures run hourly from 10am, Tuesday to Saturday (every 30 minutes from 9am in summer). The ride to Shell Island takes just a few minutes.

Question 12

Can I bring food and drinks on the boats?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We encourage you to bring a cooler with food, drinks, and snacks. Shell Island has no facilities, so pack everything you'll need.

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Directions

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Driving Directions

From Panama City Beach (West)

From Highway 98 / Hathaway Bridge

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