Explore Egmont Key: Fort Ruins, Cobblestone Streets & Secluded Snorkeling
A boat-accessible only island off the Florida coast. Walk the grounds of a 250-year-old military outpost, snorkel over the ruins of Fort Dade, and discover beaches most tourists never find. Private charter departing from Anna Maria Island.
Best for: history lovers • snorkelers • couples and families who want a secluded, off-the-beaten-path island adventure
- Boat-access only, uninhabited island — a rare Florida experience far from the crowds
- Fort Dade ruins + historic sites — walk through remnants of a 1800s military outpost
- Snorkeling over historic ruins — explore clear-water areas near submerged structures
- Secluded beaches + shelling — quiet shoreline with space to spread out
- Wildlife encounters — gopher tortoises, coastal birds, and possible dolphins/manatees
- Private charter comfort — up to 6 guests, shaded seating, and an onboard restroom
Why Egmont Key is worth the trip
What Makes Egmont Key Special (and Different from Typical Boat Tours)
Visit Egmont Key and Experience its rich history by walking the cobblestone streets of the 250 year old village and snorkel over the ruins of Fort Dade.
Step onto a remote, uninhabited, boat-only accessible island at the mouth of Tampa Bay. Our private Egmont Key tours let you explore the ruins of Fort Dade, visit the graveyard behind the warden’s home and read about the unusual demise of some of the inhabitants. Walk the sand paths and observe turtles, sea birds, and the lighthouse from 1858.
This is the kind of place you visit when you want more than “just a cruise.” If you’re excited by old ruins, remote beaches, and a one-of-a-kind snorkel spot, Egmont Key delivers.
Not the Fort De Soto ferry: this is a private, captained tour—no crowds, no set group itinerary, and a flexible pace for your group.
- Cruise out through Tampa Bay — enjoy the ride and keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds
- Explore Egmont Key State Park — walk sandy paths and cobblestone streets, visit Fort Dade ruins, and take in lighthouse-area scenery
- Beach time + shelling — relax, swim, and enjoy a quieter stretch of shoreline
- Snorkel over historic ruins — we’ll help you snorkel near submerged structures and marine life
- Easy return cruise — head back with photos, stories, and that “we did something rare” feeling
Snorkeling note: Egmont Key snorkeling is best for guests who are comfortable in the water. If you’re looking for a more beginner-focused snorkel in calmer, shallower conditions, you may prefer our Beginner Snorkeling Adventure.
What to Expect on Your Private Egmont Key Tour
Is This Egmont Key Tour Right for You?
This tour is a great fit if you want…
- A remote island experience
- History + ruins you can walk through and photograph
- A quieter beach day with shelling and space
- Snorkeling with a more adventurous feel
- A private trip where your group sets the pace
Egmont Key Tour Options
Snorkel & Explore Egmont Key
$575
Duration: 4 Hours
Step into a hidden world of sunken ruins, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life as you snorkel through the stunning waters of Egmont Key—an unforgettable adventure where history meets natural beauty, perfect for anyone comfortable in the water.
Build Your Own Adventure
$575
Duration: 4 Hours
$775
Duration: 6 Hours
$925
Duration: 8 Hours
Design your perfect day on the water—whether it’s snorkeling vibrant reefs, exploring historic islands, relaxing on hidden sandbars, or chasing dolphins through the waves, this private adventure is all about what you want to do!
What’s Included on Your Egmont Key Boat Tour
- Private captained boat trip for your group (up to 6 passengers)
- Flexible itinerary pacing
- Snorkeling gear provided (mask, fins, snorkel)
- Complimentary bottled water
- Onboard restroom
- Cooler-friendly (you’re welcome to bring snacks and adult beverages)
Small note
Please avoid items that stain boat upholstery (for example: red wine).
Pickup Location (Anna Maria Island)
Our Egmont Key tours from Anna Maria Island depart from Coquina Beach South Boat Ramp in Bradenton Beach.
Egmont Key Tour Photo Gallery
Real moments from real island days. Fort Dade ruins, beach time, and the remote beauty of Egmont Key.
Guests love the combination of history, quiet beaches, and a private, flexible pace without the crowds.
What Guests Say About Our Private Island Tours
★★★★★
"We snorkeled around Egmont Key and explored the ruins. The water was crystal clear and full of life. A truly magical experience!"
— Kaitlyn M.
★★★★★
"This wasn’t just a boat ride, it was a real adventure. The history, the wildlife, the snorkeling—all unforgettable!"
— Aaron L.
★★★★★
"Captain Bruce knew all the best spots. We saw dolphins, snorkeled over ruins, and explored the island. The boat was super comfortable!"
— Megan W.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you handle large groups?
Yes, we can add a second boat to accommodate groups up to 12. Contact us for details.
What does Private Tour mean?
It’s just you and your guests we don’t mix groups.
Can we bring our own cooler and adult beverages?
Yes, we just ask no red wine or anything that will stain carpet or seats.
What should we bring?
We recommend water shoes, polarized sunglasses, non spray sunscreen, towels, food and drinks.
I have a group of 7 can we just pay for an extra person?
No, the Coast Guard has limited private charters like ours to 6 people max.
I have a group of 7 but one is a child under 3 does he/she count?
Yes, the Coast Guard considers even a one month old child as one passenger, and two five year olds are two passengers. Sorry, it’s not our rule.
Is this the same as the Fort De Soto ferry?
No. Our Egmont Key tour is a private captained boat trip departing from Bradenton Beach or Sarasota. It’s not the public ferry from Fort De Soto shared with a large crowd. You’ll enjoy a private, flexible, personalized experience.
Do we snorkel at Egmont Key?
Yes, when conditions allow. You can snorkel over the historic ruins of Fort Dade and spot marine life in clear, shallow water near the island. And if you’re lucky we may get a visit from a passing dolphin or manatee!
Are kids welcome on the Egmont Key tour?
Definitely! The tour is family-friendly, and children love exploring the old ruins of Fort Dade and shelling along the beaches of Egmont Key.
What should we bring for the trip?
Bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and water. Snorkeling gear is included, but you can bring your own mask and fins if you prefer. You’re welcome to bring your own cooler with snacks and beverages, including adult drinks. We just ask that you don’t bring anything that is going to stain the boat, like red wine and goldfish crackers.
Is this the same as the Fort De Soto ferry?
No. Our Egmont Key tour is a private captained boat trip departing from Bradenton Beach or Sarasota. It’s not the public ferry from Fort De Soto shared with a large crowd. You’ll enjoy a private, flexible, personalized experience.
Do we snorkel at Egmont Key?
Yes, when conditions allow. You can snorkel over the historic ruins of Fort Dade and spot marine life in clear, shallow water near the island. And if you’re lucky we may get a visit from a passing dolphin or manatee!
Are kids welcome on the Egmont Key tour?
Definitely! The tour is family-friendly, and children love exploring the old ruins of Fort Dade and shelling along the beaches of Egmont Key.
What should we bring for the trip?
Bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and water. Snorkeling gear is included, but you can bring your own mask and fins if you prefer. You’re welcome to bring your own cooler with snacks and beverages, including adult drinks. We just ask that you don’t bring anything that is going to stain the boat, like red wine and goldfish crackers.