Serious Shellers Cruise: 5 Hours of Crystal Coast Shelling

Length: 5 hours

Group: Private, one party, 2 to 6 guests

Boat: 24 ft Carolina Yachts boat, custom-made for touring

Departs: Emerald Isle Boat Ramp, 6800 Emerald Drive, Emerald Isle, NC 28594

Days: Monday through Saturday

Activity level: High: several hours of walking on sand, uneven ground and along the water's edge

The Serious Shellers Cruise is for guests who are ready to spend several hours actively searching and exploring. Expect a lot of walking on sand, on uneven ground and along the water's edge. Prefer a shorter day with more time on the boat? The 3-hour Shelling Adventure, with stops at shelling spots and shark tooth spots, is a great alternative.

Want an extra set of eyes on the sand for your big day? Add "Need Help Shelling?" when you book.

Comfortable, non-marking waterproof shoes for long walks on the sand

Sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses

Clothes that can get wet

Snacks, water and drinks for a longer day (no open containers on the boat). Tell us your cooler size.

Please arrive 20 minutes early and use the restroom at the docks. There's no bathroom on board.

Do you stop at the shark tooth islands?

Yes. Along with the shelling stops, the Serious Shellers Cruise stops at several shark tooth islands in Bogue Sound, so you can hunt for dark fossil teeth too. Finds are never guaranteed.

Can we swim?

Yes. You're welcome to swim at the stops. With five hours on the water, there's time to hunt, swim and relax on a quiet beach.

Can I propose on this trip?

Absolutely. An uncrowded island beach is a beautiful place to ask. Call 910-448-4218 so we can help plan the moment.

Can we bring a picnic?

Yes. Our longest trip gives you plenty of time for a beach picnic. Bring your own food and drinks (no open containers on the boat).

Is there shade on the boat?

Yes. Our boat's T-top gives you some shade between stops.

Will we see dolphins?

Dolphins are often seen on most of our tours. They're wild animals, so sightings can't be guaranteed.

How much is it?

$350 for your private boat with 2 guests, plus $50 for each extra guest, up to 6. Add "Need Help Shelling?" for $100 when you book.

Shark teeth are small, dark and easy to walk right past, and the best shells aren't always where you'd expect. For $100, add "Need Help Shelling?" and a trained shark tooth hunter and shell finder will join the hunt to show you how to spot teeth and where to look on the beach for the best shells. Your guide rides along and doesn't count toward your 6 guests. Whether you're on the Shark Tooth Adventure, the Shelling Adventure or the Serious Shellers Cruise, it's the best chance to sharpen your eye and head home with finds you'll be proud of. Finds are never guaranteed, but you'll know exactly what to look for. Add it when you book.