Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option
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.
What's Included
- Masks, fins, and snorkels provided
- Easy-handling ocean kayaks
- Comfortable life jackets for all sizes
- Wetsuits (in the winter months)
- Gratuities
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
30 Minutes (approx.) • Perfect Photo Opportunity
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- This activity is 2 blocks from the cruise ship port
- Alcohol will be served after activities are complete
- Paid parking nearbyIf you are going to park your car downtown, give yourself an extra 20 minutes to be on the safe side.
- Most travelers can participate
- Travelers should be comfortable in water with a life jacketIf someone in your group feels uncomfortable going into the water, there are many shaded areas on the boat to enjoy.
- Vessel has a toilet
- Not wheelchair accessibleThe marine head (restroom) requires navigating steps to access.
- What to bringCamera, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and a smile!
- This activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
(23)Q: Is there a fresh water rinse on board?
A: Yes. You’re welcome to rinse off in fresh water after you snorkel and kayak. Read more Oct 2021
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.93 out of 5 stars based on 2,259 traveler reviews collected by Best In Key West and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (23)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Best In Key West customers.
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Yes. You’re welcome to rinse off in fresh water after you snorkel and kayak.
Oct 2021Our tandem kayaks have a combined weight limit of 500 pounds. We encourage guests to consider their abilities when planning their kayaking adventures. Our crew can assist guests with loading into the kayaks, but some physical fitness is required.
May 2024Yes, small coolers are fine – no glassware, please.
Mar 2021Yes. Smaller groups and families snorkel and kayak together. We may split up larger groups into two to provide the best experience for all.
Jan 2024Yes, wetsuits are provided free of charge upon request. They are usually only needed during winter, but the choice is yours.
Nov 2024On Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option guests will enjoy 45 minutes of sailing to Key West National Wildlife Refuge, a 60 minute guided kayak tour and 60 minutes of reef snorkeling.
Feb 2022The tandem kayaks Best In Key West used on Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option comfortably hold two paddlers and are extremely stable, much more than solo kayaks. It’s actually quite difficult to tip a tandem kayak over. Capsizes happen to fewer than 1 out of 100 participants. Nearly all capsizes are a result of water fights and other sorts of goofing around.
Jul 2024The reef snorkel is 4-15 ft.
Mar 2021The maximum weight capacity for kayaking is 340 lbs / 154 kg.
Nov 2021Yes, 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.
Jan 2022Yes, this is possible, as long as you are comfortable going into the water. All Best In Key West snorkeling tours adhere to strict safety regulations and have been designed to be enjoyed by all.
Your safety is our #1 priority, which is why:
- You will be wearing a flotation device at all times.
- On many tours, there is a stairway from the boat into the water so you won’t have to “jump” in!
- There are trained staff in the water and watching from the boat at all times.
For these reasons, we believe that even non-swimmers can have a wonderful time on our snorkeling trips, however, the final judgment call is yours to make. Please note we do not give refunds if you decide not to snorkel on the trip.
Oct 2021The snorkel gear we use on Best In Key West tours is high quality and for your protection, the equipment is sanitized after each use. However, if you feel more comfortable using your own snorkeling equipment, feel free to bring it on the tour. Please note, there is no discount for providing your own equipment and we can’t be responsible for any lost or damaged items.
May 2023No experience is necessary! Beginners are welcome on all of our kayak tours. Most of our guests have never been in a sea kayak before. Anyone in average physical condition may join a kayak tour. If you can hike or bike, you can paddle our sea kayaks. You do not need any swimming skills either.
The only prerequisite is a healthy spirit of curiosity and adventure.
Regardless of age or skill level you will find that our expeditions offer enough flexibility to make your experience with us safe and rewarding. We will show you proper sea kayaking technique and water safety before leaving the beach. And your expert guides will be with you throughout the adventure to give you pointers and improve your skills.
Sep 2022First-time snorkelers can be assured of one-on-one instruction and assistance. We find introducing folks to our world very rewarding!
Oct 2021Your safety is Best In Key West‘s number one concern. In general, sea kayaking is safer than most other outdoor pursuits, even bicycling.
Jan 2023There are no legal age limits for snorkeling. We have found that age 5 or 6 is a good age to learn the basics of snorkeling, however, it’s entirely up to individuals to make the best choice for their family.
Sep 2021If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the activity start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the activity start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the activity local time (EDT).
- Masks, fins, and snorkels provided.
- Easy-handling ocean kayaks.
- Comfortable life jackets for all sizes.
- Wetsuits (in the winter months).
- Gratuities.
This activity requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option is as follows:
- Most travelers can participate
- Not wheelchair accessible
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option will be included in your confirmation email from Best In Key West. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Masks, fins, and snorkels provided
- Easy-handling ocean kayaks
- Comfortable life jackets for all sizes
- Wetsuits (in the winter months)
- Gratuities
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- This activity is 2 blocks from the cruise ship port
- Alcohol will be served after activities are complete
- Paid parking nearbyIf you are going to park your car downtown, give yourself an extra 20 minutes to be on the safe side.
- Most travelers can participate
- Travelers should be comfortable in water with a life jacketIf someone in your group feels uncomfortable going into the water, there are many shaded areas on the boat to enjoy.
- Vessel has a toilet
- Not wheelchair accessibleThe marine head (restroom) requires navigating steps to access.
- What to bringCamera, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and a smile!
- This activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
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