Key Largo: Two Reef Snorkel Tour with Gear & Crew

Summary

Key Largo reef snorkeling with gear included plus local crew

You’ll float over vibrant reefs in Key Largo with all snorkel gear provided, guided by locals who know every fish by name. Expect two unique reef sites, snacks and drinks onboard, plus tips from a welcoming crew. You might leave with salt in your hair and a new favorite lunch spot — or just that peaceful feeling from drifting above coral.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to keep an eye out for the parrotfish — they’re the ones crunching on coral,” Captain Jamie grinned as we pulled away from the dock in Key Largo. I didn’t even know fish could make noise underwater, but apparently you can hear them if you listen close enough. The boat was new — smelled like salt and sunscreen and maybe a bit of engine oil, but in a good way. We’d barely left Miami an hour before, but it already felt like a different world out here.

The crew handed out our snorkel gear (all included, which is great because I always forget something), and helped me adjust my mask so it didn’t leak — thanks to Maria for not laughing when I put it on upside down the first time. The ride out to the first reef site was just long enough for the sun to start warming up my shoulders. There were maybe a dozen of us onboard, swapping stories about past snorkeling fails while passing around little bags of chips and cold sodas from the cooler. Someone pointed out a pelican dive-bombing for its breakfast — missed it by a second.

When we dropped anchor near Christ of the Abyss, Jamie gave us a quick safety rundown (no full-face masks allowed — apparently that’s important). The water was clearer than I expected, all turquoise ribbons and flashes of silver fish below. At one point I floated still enough to hear my own breath echoing through the snorkel tube, then suddenly there were these tiny blue tangs darting past my hands. It’s strange how quiet your mind gets when you’re just drifting above coral like that.

After about 45 minutes at each site (two stops total), we climbed back up the swim ladder — which is harder than it looks after floating so long — and rinsed off in freshwater showers back at their shop. Maria recommended this Cuban place nearby for lunch; I’m still thinking about those plantains. I liked that nobody rushed us off the boat or tried to sell anything extra — just friendly advice and some sunburn warnings as we left.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Key Largo Two Reef Snorkel Tour

• Complete boat waivers before arrival
• Arrive and check in at boutique
• Board the snorkel boat
• Boat ride to first reef site
• Snorkel at first coral reef
• Travel to second reef site
• Snorkel at second coral reef
• Return boat ride to dock
• Rinse off in freshwater showers
• Browse gift shop or ask crew

Top questions

How long does the Key Largo snorkel tour last?

The tour includes two 45-minute snorkeling stops plus boat rides; total time varies but plan for around 3 hours including check-in and return.

Is snorkel equipment included on this tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is provided as part of your booking.

Are there age or swimming requirements?

Participants must be at least 5 years old and able to swim unassisted in deep water; not suitable for non-swimmers or beginners.

What time does check-in start for the tour?

Check-in begins at 8:15 AM, 11:15 AM, or 2:15 PM depending on your chosen departure time.

Does this Key Largo snorkel trip include food or drinks?

Bags of chips, soda, water, and use of a cooler are included; you can also bring outside snacks or drinks (no alcohol).

How far is Key Largo from Miami?

The dive shop is about an hour’s drive from Miami — closest option from mainland Florida.

Can I use a full-face snorkel mask?

No, full-face snorkel masks are not allowed on this tour for safety reasons.

Is transportation from my hotel included?

No hotel pickup is offered; you’ll need to make your own way to the dive shop in Key Largo.

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, snorkel), reef-safe sunscreen provided onboard, complimentary chip bags and soft drinks with access to coolers for any snacks you bring yourself. The local crew takes care of safety briefings and gear setup before visiting two different reef sites by boat—plus freshwater showers back at their oceanfront shop when you return.