Key West: Kayak, Snorkel & Schooner Sunset Small Group Tour

Summary

Sail key west’s backcountry waters with snorkeling and kayaking

You’ll sail from Key West into calm waters for kayaking through mangroves and snorkeling above seagrass beds with a local guide nearby. Small group means no crowds—just quiet moments spotting wildlife, sharing fruit and drinks on deck, and catching that famous sunset if you pick the afternoon trip.

What’s the experience like?

Already halfway out of Key West Harbor before I realized how salty the breeze tasted—like you could almost chew it. Our guide, Jamie, was telling this story about shrimp boats and Hemingway (I only caught half of it because I got distracted by a pelican dive-bombing near the bow). The schooner felt roomy even with our little group scattered around; nobody jockeying for space or shouting over each other. You see the old wooden docks and those wild pastel houses from a different angle out here. Not sure why that surprised me.

Once we anchored in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, everything went kind of quiet except for some gulls squabbling nearby. I’d never tried kayaking in mangroves before—Jamie promised we wouldn’t tip over unless we really tried (he winked at my nervous paddling). The water was clear enough to spot rays gliding underneath. At one point I just stopped paddling to listen to the wind moving through the mangrove leaves. There’s something about being tucked into those channels that makes you feel like you’re in on a secret.

Snorkeling was next—mask fogged up immediately, which made me laugh underwater (not recommended). Saw flashes of yellowtail and these tiny silver fish darting everywhere. Someone spotted a turtle but I missed it; still kicking myself a bit. Back onboard, they passed around slices of pineapple and cold beer—nothing fancy but exactly what you want after saltwater stings your lips. If you do the afternoon trip like we did, there’s this slow golden light on the way back as the sun drops behind Key West. People got quiet watching it—not in an awkward way, just… content? I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail, snorkel, kayak, and explore Key West

• Sail through Key West Harbor
• View historic landmarks and boats
• Crew shares island history stories
• Snorkel in protected waters
• Kayak through calm mangrove channels
• Observe wildlife and marine life

Top questions

How long is this Key West kayak & snorkel tour?

The tour is a half-day trip departing from Key West.

Is kayaking experience needed for this day trip?

No previous kayaking experience is required; stable sea kayaks are provided and guides help beginners.

What wildlife might I see during the tour?

You may spot rays, tropical fish, small sharks, sport fish, sea turtles, herons, egrets, ospreys, and pelicans.

Are snacks or drinks included on board?

Yes, fresh fruit, healthy snacks, water, soft drinks, beer and wine are included during your time at sea.

Does this tour include snorkeling equipment?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is provided for guests to use.

Is pickup included for this Key West tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Can I join if I don’t know how to swim well?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; speak with guides if you have concerns about swimming or snorkeling.

What should I bring on this day trip from Key West?

Please bring your own towel and sun protection like sunscreen or hats.

Is there an age limit for drinking alcohol onboard?

The minimum drinking age onboard is 21 years old.

What’s included

Your day includes use of comfortable wetsuits in winter months plus all snorkeling equipment and stable sea kayaks. Fresh fruit and healthy snacks are served alongside unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks and water—all guided by friendly crew who share stories about local history and wildlife as you explore the sanctuary before sailing back toward sunset if you choose the afternoon option.