Part of the Florida Keys archipelago, the island city of Key West is a magnet for visitors keen to explore the area’s idyllic waters. Renowned for its calm seas and stunning coral reefs, diving and snorkeling are two of the most popular activities here, with the chance to spot dolphins an alluring bonus.
There are a huge number of options for snorkeling adventures in Florida and Key West, ranging from independent trips to fully organised tours. If you’re planning to visit this magical stretch of the US southeast and are keen to enjoy some snorkeling during your stay, we’ve picked out 5 of the best tours available.
Key West Day Trip with Snorkeling
From $197.41 per person
Beginning with a pick up from your Miami hotel, you’ll be transported by bus along the scenic coastal Overseas Highway, before embarking on your snorkelling adventure. On arrival in Key West, you’ll board a sailing boat and head out to sea to admire the magnificent reef. While on the boat you’ll be furnished with high standard snorkelling gear before plunging into the pristine waters. Afterwards you’ll get to enjoy a few hours to explore Key West before your return journey.
Rum and Reggae Afternoon Snorkel and Sunset
From $43.27 per person
On board a high-tech, speedy catamaran you’ll be propelled across the Florida waters to enjoy a memorable Caribbean-themed snorkelling adventure. During the trip you’ll get to soak up the tropical coral reefs and beautiful sunset, hear the rhythmic sounds of reggae music, and delve under the water for a snorkelling odyssey. After you’ve re-emerged from the sea, you’ll be treated to some complimentary rum punch, a signature tropical beverage, beer, wine and champagne before being whisked off to savour the region’s famous sunset to close out your trip.
Florida Keys Eco, Paddle, and Snorkel Tour
From $228 per person
A tour for the adventurous of mind and spirit, this all-inclusive trip invites guests to take in wildlife and coastal ecosystems, accompanied by an experienced marine biologist or naturalist guide. During the tour you’ll get to enjoy numerous action-packed activities including kayaking, paddleboarding and exploring mangrove forests and sea grass flats. You’ll also get to tuck into a lunch on the water (inclusive), snorkel in two reef locations and observe dolphins, manatees, sea turtles and plenty more. As a memento you can home photos from your experience, too.
Key West: Ultimate Watersports Adventure Tour
From $173 per person
This fun-filled watersports tour offers you the unique opportunity to snorkel at North America’s only living coral reef. During the trip you’ll sail out to sea on a speed-fuelled catamaran, snorkel for a full hour, go parasailing, propel yourself across the water on a jet ski, sunbath on the expansive deck, play around on yacht inflatables, enjoy some marine life spotting, and tuck into a mouth-watering breakfast and lunch with wine and champagne included.
Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Eco Tour
From $86.70 per person
Combine dolphin watching with snorkelling during this Key West aquatic adventure. Sitting in the comfort of a speedy catamaran, you’ll traverse the waters while looking out for bottlenose dolphins emerging from the deep blue sea. Later you’ll move on to Key West wildlife refuge for more wildlife spotting and snorkelling in the area’s shallow backcountry waters. Back on the dock you can savour a complimentary beer or glass of wine before your return journey. There’s also the option to extend the trip into the afternoon.
