Key West: Reef Snorkel Sail Trip with Drinks & Small Groups

Summary

Snorkeling Florida Keys reefs by sailboat with drinks and local crew

You’ll sail from Key West to explore vibrant coral reefs with a small group and local guide, snorkeling among tropical fish and maybe even turtles. Afterward, relax on deck with included drinks — beer, wine, margaritas — as you swap stories under the sails. It’s equal parts adventure and easygoing Keys vibe.

What’s the experience like?

Someone handed me a cold can of craft beer before I’d even finished rinsing the salt from my face. The sun was still warm on my shoulders, but there was this breeze — you know that sea air that smells like sunscreen and something wild? Our captain, Mike, had just finished explaining how to fit the mask so it didn’t leak (I think I got it right on the third try). He said we’d be out at the reef in about an hour, and honestly, watching Key West shrink behind us as we sailed out felt kind of surreal. There were only maybe a dozen of us on the Floridays, so nobody was elbowing for space or anything.

I’ll admit I got nervous looking down at all that blue — it’s deep out there. But once I slipped in, it was quieter than I expected. You can hear your own bubbles and not much else. The coral looked almost painted, with fish darting around like they owned the place (which I guess they do). Someone pointed out a turtle gliding past; I tried to wave but mostly just splashed awkwardly. Our guide floated nearby, checking if anyone needed help or wanted to know what that spiky thing was (sea urchin — not for touching). The water tasted a little metallic when I accidentally swallowed some. Not my finest moment.

Back on deck, people swapped stories about what they saw — someone swore they spotted a dolphin off to the side. Maybe they did; maybe it was wishful thinking after those margaritas started circulating. Either way, everyone seemed lighter somehow. There’s something about sitting under big sails with strangers who suddenly feel like friends. I still think about that patch of sunlight flickering over the water on our way back in — weird how those little details stick.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel and sail at Key West reef

• Board 54’ sailing yacht Floridays
• Sail one hour to coral reef
• Receive snorkeling gear and instructions
• Snorkel the Florida Keys reef
• Observe marine life up close
• Enjoy complimentary beverages onboard
• Sail one hour back to dock

Top questions

How long is the Key West reef snorkel sail trip?

The trip lasts about three hours total: one hour sailing each way and about an hour at the reef itself.

Is snorkeling gear provided on this tour?

Yes, sanitized masks, snorkels, fins, and flotation vests are included for all guests.

Are drinks included during the sail?

Yes, complimentary beverages include water, soda, craft beer selection, white wine, margaritas, and champagne.

How many people are on each tour?

The Floridays takes only small groups to keep things relaxed; no crowds onboard.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Basic swimming ability is needed but professional guidance is provided; instruction is given before entering the water.

Are there restrooms or showers onboard?

A fresh water hose is available for rinsing off after snorkeling; restroom availability isn’t specified in the reference info.

What marine life might I see while snorkeling?

You might spot tropical fish, eels, turtles, dolphins, anemones or urchins—sightings vary by day.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the dock in Key West for departure.

What’s included

Your day includes use of sanitized snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, snorkel vest), professional instruction from local crew before you enter the water at North America’s only living coral reef near Key West, time to rinse off with fresh water after snorkeling, plus complimentary drinks like soda, bottled water, craft beers, white wine, margaritas and champagne as you relax under sail back to shore.