Snorkeling at Sombrero Key Light Reef, Key West

Dive into vibrant coral and swim alongside colorful marine life on a luxury boat trip

Snorkel the world's 3rd largest barrier reef at Sombrero Key Light Reef near Key West on a 3-hour boat excursion with gear, guide and refreshments included. The Marathon Mermaid, the newest boat in the Marathon fleet, takes small groups out to protected waters where you navigate the coral and fish yourself, then relax with snacks and drinks on the way back.

The experience

The boat leaves Marathon for Sombrero Key Light Reef, a site famous enough that the crew knows exactly where the coral formations and marine life concentrate. You get a luxury ride out on the Marathon Mermaid (the operator's newest and fastest boat), which means less time bouncing across open water and more time in the water itself. All snorkeling gear is provided and fitted to you before you enter the reef.

Once at the site, you navigate the reef on your own pace using the equipment the crew has set up. The coral here supports the ecosystem the Florida Keys is known for, and the crew stays nearby to watch for safety. After you've explored as long as you want, you board for the return trip, where fresh fruit and beverages give you time to decompress and talk through what you saw underwater. The whole outing runs 3 hours from pickup to drop-off.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment.
• soda and snacks.
• refreshing beverages on the return trip.
• crew supervision and safety briefing.

Before you book

Days and timesTuesday, Thursday, Saturday and SundayDeparts at 08:30Last departure this season: 30 Nov

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Child (4 to 17 years) · Infant (under 4)

GroupUp to 42

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 10 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditions

Operated by Marathon Mermaid Charters

Is this one for you?You operate the snorkel gear and navigate the reef yourself at your own pace, so this suits anyone comfortable in the water who wants to explore rather than watch. The shared boat keeps the cost down and the group small enough that the crew can keep an eye on everyone.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 17 years); Infant (under 4).

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.

Do I need to know how to swim to snorkel at Sombrero Key Light Reef?

Yes, the ability to swim is necessary to participate in the snorkeling activity. The crew will brief you on gear use and reef safety before entry, but you must be a comfortable swimmer.

What's included in the snorkeling trip?

Snorkeling equipment, soda and snacks, and beverages on the return trip are all included. Transportation from the boat dock in Marathon to the reef and back is part of the excursion.

How long does the whole trip take?

The excursion runs 3 hours total, including the boat ride out, your time exploring the reef, and the return journey with refreshments.

What makes Sombrero Key Light Reef worth the boat ride?

Sombrero Key Light Reef is the world's 3rd largest barrier reef and sits in protected waters where the coral formations and marine life are concentrated and stable. The crew knows the site well and positions the boat where you'll see the most diverse ecosystem.