Key West Snorkeling, Kayaking & Sailing: Historic Schooner

A historic schooner, snorkeling in the wildlife refuge, kayaking through mangroves, and a sandbar stop in one full day

This full-day activity on a historic schooner combines snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing in the Key West National Wildlife Refuge, a protected area only accessible by boat. You board the schooner, snorkel in clear water, paddle kayaks around mangrove islands, and swim at a shallow sandbar when conditions allow. The crew guides all skill levels, shares local history and eco talks, and keeps the group to around 20 people so the day never feels crowded. Lunch is fresh and locally prepared. Beer, wine and soft drinks are unlimited on the sail back.

The experience

You board a historic schooner and sail into the Key West National Wildlife Refuge, a protected backcountry only reachable by boat. The water is clear, the mangrove islands are dense, and the crew knows the route and the wildlife. All snorkel gear is sanitized and provided, along with flotation devices and kayaks, no experience needed. The crew guides you through each activity, offers support if you're new to snorkeling or paddling, and keeps the atmosphere easygoing so everyone feels welcome, whether you're a beginner or seasoned in the water.

The day moves between activities: you snorkel in the refuge where marine life is visible in shallow water, then paddle kayaks around the mangrove islands. When conditions allow, the schooner stops at a shallow sandbar: a guest favorite for swimming and wading. Between the water time, you're on deck listening to the crew share stories about Key West's history and give informative talks about the ecosystem. Restroom facilities are onboard. Lunch is fresh and locally prepared, with salads from Fausto's, sandwiches, fruit, chips and salsa, and hummus. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available on request.

The sail back to Key West is when the drinks come out: craft beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options, all unlimited. The group stays under 20 people, which is why the day doesn't feel like a crowded tour boat. The whole outing runs about 6.5 hours from start to finish. A live guide in English leads the activities and talks throughout.

What’s included

• All snorkel and kayak gear, including sanitized equipment and flotation devices.
• professional guide in English.
• fresh locally prepared lunch with vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
• unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks on the return sail.
• local taxes.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:30 and 10:00

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (4 to 12 years) · Infant (under 4): free

GroupUp to 20

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearby

Operated by Danger Charters

Is this one for you?The day runs 6.5 hours of active water time and sailing, with the crew guiding you through snorkeling and kayaking at a relaxed pace. It's suited for all fitness levels and all ages, so you're not racing or sitting idle between activities.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years); Infant (under 4): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the water like for snorkeling in the Key West National Wildlife Refuge?

The water is clear and shallow in the snorkeling areas, with marine life visible and mangrove islands nearby. The refuge is a protected backcountry only accessible by boat, so it stays uncrowded and undisturbed.

Do I need snorkeling or kayaking experience to join this activity?

No experience is required. The crew guides and supports all skill levels, whether you're brand new to snorkeling or a seasoned paddler. They offer guidance throughout each activity and create an easygoing atmosphere.

What's included in the lunch and drinks?

Lunch is fresh and locally prepared, with salads from Fausto's, sandwiches, fruit, chips and salsa, and hummus. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available on request. Beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks are unlimited on the sail back to Key West.

How many people typically go on this snorkeling and kayaking activity?

The group is limited to around 20 guests, so the day never feels crowded whether you're in the water or on deck. This small-group size keeps the experience more personal and spacious.

Is this activity family-friendly?

Yes, it's family-friendly and suitable for all ages. The crew creates a welcoming atmosphere for all skill levels, and the mix of snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxation on deck gives everyone something to do.

What gear is provided for snorkeling and kayaking?

All gear is provided, including sanitized snorkel equipment, flotation devices, and kayaks. You don't need to bring your own or arrange anything in advance.