Key West: Schooner Sailing, Kayak & Snorkel Small-Group Tour

Summary

Sail wild key west waters kayak mangroves snorkel coral reefs lunch included

You’ll board a classic schooner in Key West for a day spent sailing quiet waters, kayaking shaded mangrove channels with your guide, snorkeling coral reefs teeming with life, and relaxing at a shallow sandbar. With fresh local lunch and drinks included, every moment feels easygoing—just you, new friends, and wild Florida beauty all around.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway out into the blue-green when I realized how quiet it gets once you leave Key West behind. The old schooner cut through the water with this gentle creak—nothing like those loud party boats you see at the dock. Our guide, Jamie, pointed out a pelican perched on a marker and told us how these islands used to be pirate hideouts. I’m not sure if he was serious or just enjoying himself, but everyone laughed anyway. The salt air made my skin feel sticky but sort of clean at the same time. You know that feeling?

I’d never kayaked through mangroves before. The water was so clear you could see right down to where little fish darted around the roots. Jamie handed me a paddle and said not to worry about tipping—apparently it’s “harder than it looks to mess up.” I bumped into a branch anyway and got dripped on by something (probably harmless). There was this earthy, green smell under the trees, mixed with sunscreen from my arms. We floated for a while as he explained why these tangled roots matter for the reef. I didn’t expect to care about mangroves but now I kind of do.

Snorkeling over the coral heads felt like dropping into another world—quiet except for my own breathing and the distant sound of someone laughing back on deck. Saw a yellowtail snapper flash past; almost reached out before remembering you’re not supposed to touch anything here in the Wildlife Refuge. Later we stopped at this sandbar where the water barely reached my knees—soft sand underfoot, sun warm on my shoulders. Lunch tasted better than it should have (maybe just because we’d been out there all morning). Fausto’s salad and sandwiches, plus fruit and chips—simple but fresh.

The sail back was slower, with cold beer and some local wine passed around. Everyone seemed sun-tired in that good way. Jamie told more stories about Key West’s old days while someone else napped in the shade of the sailcloth. I kept thinking about that moment under the mangroves—the light flickering on water—and yeah, I’d do this again just for that feeling alone.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full-day sailing and water activities

• Board historic schooner
• Sail into National Wildlife Refuge
• Snorkel over coral heads
• Kayak through mangrove channels
• Stop at shallow sandbar
• Enjoy fresh locally prepared lunch
• Listen to crew's eco talks and stories
• Relax on deck between activities
• Drink craft beer, wine, or non-alcoholic drinks
• Sail back to Key West

Top questions

How many people are on this Key West sailing tour?

The group size is limited to around 20 guests for a more personal experience.

Is lunch included on the Danger Charters day trip?

Yes, lunch is included and features locally prepared salads from Fausto’s, sandwiches, fruit, chips and salsa, plus vegetarian or gluten-free options if requested.

Do I need experience to kayak or snorkel?

No experience is needed; guides support all skill levels during kayaking and snorkeling activities.

What wildlife might I see during this Key West ocean adventure?

You may spot fish like yellowtail snapper while snorkeling, plus birds such as pelicans in the Wildlife Refuge.

Are drinks provided on board?

Yes, unlimited beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks are served after water activities.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, restroom facilities are available onboard the schooner.

Where does this tour depart from in Key West?

The tour departs from Key West; public transportation options are nearby for convenience.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing aboard a historic schooner from Key West with all kayaking and snorkeling equipment provided (sanitized gear), guided eco talks throughout by passionate crew members, unlimited soft drinks plus craft beer and wine after activities end, fresh locally prepared lunch with vegetarian or gluten-free options if needed—all wrapped up before returning comfortably to town.