SCALLOPING
Rates for Scalloping
1-6 people: $450
Dock Departure
Between 8 and 9 am
Max. Capacity
6 passengers
Let's Scallop!
Book your trip for scalloping!
View the available dates
before making a reservation.
New at scalloping? Captain Nita shows you how, side-by-side with you in the water, until you’re comfortable and confident to sight and scoop up scallops on your own! It’s amazing how quickly you become accustomed to the equipment. The sea life is amazing, and the underwater search for the scallops is a true delight! Bring an underwater camera to take pictures. If you’ve scalloped before, you know the joy of the hunt, as well as the beauty to be enjoyed under the water’s surface.
FYI:
- scallop trips last about 5 hours
- water temperature is around 80 to 90 degrees
- we leave the dock at approximately 9 am, for better sunlight to see the scallops
- Steinhatchee scallop season is normally July 1 - September 5. In some years it is opened early but limits are cut in half: June 15 - 30.
- limits: 2 gallons per person, 10 gallons per boat maximum (we must have 5 people on the boat to be able to keep 10 gallons)
- Crystal River scallop season runs July 1 - September 24. Captain Nita moves the boat after Steinhatchee season closes on September 5 or if there is a water clarity issue in Steinhatchee.
Captain Nita provides for you:
- boat, fuel, ice
- 6' x 6' T-top for shade
- bottled water
- 3-step ladder for getting in/out of the boat
- fishing license
- safety gear
- scallop collection bags
- mask and snorkel to fit most common face sizes
- we have some fins (sponsored by the Burns Family), but they may not fit all sizes
- swim shirts for sun protection while scalloping
- this year - 2 beach towels - per person!
What you need to bring:
- weather-appropriate clothing
- rash guard or t-shirt while snorkeling (to avoid sunburn)
- hat, cap or head cover
- sunglasses (polarized lens enhance the view)
- sunscreen (30 SPF+ is recommended)
- food, beverage
- fins or water shoes
- camera (waterproof is ideal)
$100 deposit is required for a confirmed booked date and nonrefundable. Remaining balance is due at trip’s end. Cash, credit card, personal or corporate checks are accepted for payment.
Gratuities for the captain is not included in the fees, yet are very much appreciated.
Captain Nita came across these beautiful dolphins on the way back from scalloping. Enjoy the video – you could have been there!
Who cleans your scallops?
The Sea Hag Marina has a few designated people on hand to clean your scallops and there are plenty of side-of-the-road vendors willing to clean them for a fee. If you wish to clean them yourself, Captain Nita has some tools on board to get the job done.
Most local restaurants will prepare your catch for dinner. Grilled, broiled, fried, sautéed — combined with herbs, garlic, butter, white wine — your imagination can run wild with the possibilities of creating a delectable meal.
Ask Captain Nita to give you her
Scallops On the Half Shell recipe.
