Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option

2,230 Reviews 4.93 out of 5 stars Based on 2,230 traveler reviews collected by Key West Water Sports and TripAdvisor |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Key West

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Don't miss out!
This is usually booked 22 days in advance.

4.5 or 6.5 hours (approx.)
2 blocks from cruise ship port
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Overview

Enjoy an unforgettable morning or afternoon of sailing, kayaking and snorkeling in the pristine marine wilderness of the Key West National Wildlife Refuge.

Highlights

  • Voyage into the Key West Backcountry under sail on a traditional 65ft Skipjack schooner
  • Paddle a kayak on a guided tour through mangrove islands
  • Snorkel unspoiled waters to encounter tropical fish and marine life
  • Enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages including beer & wine
  • Choose the afternoon trip to catch the Key West sunset

Description

Key West is surrounded by thousands of square miles of marine wilderness that comprise the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. This area includes what locals call the Backcountry – a strip of shallow water flats, tangled channels and wild mangrove islands that lies mostly along the Gulf side of the Keys and runs west out toward the Marquesas. Home to several wildlife refuges and national parks, the Backcountry is the last remaining example of wild, untouched Florida. It is also one of North America’s premiere ecotourism destinations: incredibly beautiful and teeming with an amazing variety of marine and bird life yet within easy reach of a half-day trip from Key West. Don’t miss your opportunity to explore this natural wonderland on one of our Backcountry Sail, Snorkel and Kayak Excursions.

You will cast off from historic Key West harbor for a pleasant 45-minute sail to the west where the Key West National Wildlife Refuge offers an ideal setting for a watersports adventure. The shallow, protected waters and numerous islands make it possible to find calm water and good visibility in almost any weather condition, creating an area perfect for kayaking and snorkeling. Our custom-built historical replica schooners are modeled on the traditional 19th century Skipjack, a sailing vessel designed for harvesting oysters in shallow Chesapeake Bay and later used by Key West wreckers who earned a living salvaging the many ships wrecked on the treacherous reefs and sandbars of the lower Keys. These boats can easily access the very shallow waters of the Refuge to reach deserted mangrove islands, remote sandbars and isolated patch reefs set in surroundings of almost surreal beauty.

Have no fear at all if you have never kayaked or snorkeled before. Both sports are very simple and easy to learn, and our expert guides will provide all of the friendly instruction needed. Within minutes you will be paddling along with your guide into the shade of the mangroves. The stealth and agility of the kayak will allow you to spot exotic birds, small invertebrates, tropical fish, rays, sharks, sport fish and maybe even a sea turtle. Later, put on your mask and snorkel to explore the amazing underwater world of beautiful corals, lush sponge gardens, colorful tropical fish and incredible marine life of all varieties. Snorkeling is far easier than swimming and it opens up a view that most people will see only in nature documentaries. One-on-one instruction and assistance will get first-timers off to a good start, and prescription dive masks and wetsuits are available at no extra charge.

Enjoy an exceptional eco-touring experience with captains and guides who know the waters, islands and reefs intimately. Relax in the sun and refresh yourself with cold water, sodas and snacks. When the water sports are finished, toast a successful expedition with beer and wine then savor the sail home on a graceful craft that traces her lines back to the heyday of the Key West wreckers. If you want a real treat, select the afternoon trip and on the sail back to port you can marvel at a clear-to-the-horizon view of the Key West sunset.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the incredible Key West National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy sailing, kayaking and snorkeling all in one tour. You will never have easier access to an eco-tour that takes you into a marine ecosystem world-renowned for its natural beauty and variety of life. Everything is included – all you need is your swimsuit, beach bag and camera. Make your booking early because the Backcountry Sail, Snorkel and Kayak Excursions are small-group tours that fill up quickly.

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Sample Menu

Full Day Trips

  • Pasta salad
  • Tuna
  • Curried chicken salad
  • Make your own sandwiches with an assortment of bread, deli meats, cheese, and condiments
Peanut butter & jelly
  • Fresh fruit
  • Potato chips
  • Chips & salsa
  • Crudités with Hummus

Morning or Afternoon ½ Day Trips

  • Fresh fruit
  • Chips & salsa
  • Crudités with hummus

What's Included

  • Masks, fins, and snorkels provided
  • Easy-handling ocean kayaks
  • Comfortable life jackets for all sizes
  • Gratuities
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What To Expect

Get ready to make unforgettable memories aboard this stunning sailing boat—yes, it even has a bathroom for maximum comfort! Explore the best of Key West’s natural beauty, from breathtaking views above the waves to hidden wonders below. Whether you join us for a morning or afternoon ½ day escape or treat yourself to a full-day adventure with a delicious buffet lunch, one thing’s for sure—you’re in for an incredible time!

5-Star Resort (check-in)

After a quick and easy check-in, you’ll embark on your beautiful schooner boat.

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15 Minutes (approx.) • Instruction Included • Equipment Included

Sailing

It's time to hit the pristine waters of Key West. Our shallow-draft schooners can reach places other boats can’t—and that’s exactly where we’ll take you. As we sail through the stunning waters of Key West, kick back or sunbathe under our canopy and enjoy the views. The beauty of the Florida Keys will surround you, and you might even spot a dolphin or two along the way!

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45 Minutes (approx.)

Key West National Wildlife Refuge

The Key West National Wildlife Refuge – known to locals as the Backcountry – was among the first refuges established in North America and, sadly, is the last remaining example of an untouched marine ecosystem in Florida. Accessible only by boat, we carefully treat the vital Backcountry with the utmost respect and take great pride in educating our guests about the area. Our schooners can navigate through shallow water flats and sandbars, winding channels, and mangrove islands, providing you with world-class experiences without causing distress to the ecosystem.

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Kayaking

The stealth and agility of the kayak will allow you to spot exotic birds, small invertebrates, tropical fish, rays, sharks, sport fish, and maybe even a sea turtle. Later, put on your mask and snorkel to explore the amazing underwater world of beautiful corals, lush sponge gardens, colorful tropical fish, and incredible marine life of all varieties.

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60 Minutes (approx.) • Instruction & Equipment Included • No Experience Necessary

Key West Sunset at Sea

Exclusive to the afternoon trip, see the beautiful Key West sunset from the water. It’s truly a spectacular way to end the day.

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30 Minutes (approx.) • Perfect Photo Opportunity

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • This tour is 2 blocks from the cruise ship port
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Most travelers can participate
  • Travelers should be comfortable in water with a life jacket
  • Alcohol will be served after activities are complete

Frequently Asked Questions

(19)

Q: Do you take pregnant customers snorkeling?

A: Yes, we allow pregnant women to go on snorkeling. However, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before doing so to assess your individual health and pregnancy stage. Sep 2022

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Live Chat, Text, Call, or Email our friendly customer support with your questions.

Activity code: C-277556

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.93
2,230 reviews

Average 4.93 out of 5 stars based on 2,227 traveler reviews collected by Key West Water Sports and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
2,093
4 stars
108
3 stars
26
2 stars
0
1 star
0

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Don't miss out!
This is usually booked 22 days in advance.

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Cancellation Policy

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100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour’s start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour’s local time.
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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