Last Updated on March 31, 2024

Key Largo is a small part of Florida, located at the northernmost point of the Florida Keys. 

It’s home to beautiful coral reefs, sparkling ocean water, and some of the best snorkeling in the state.

If you’re planning a visit to the Keys, the best way to explore the mesmerizing underwater world is to book a Key Largo snorkeling tour.

Here are the 9 best options for those tours, that will have you in awe from the moment you dive in the water!

Top Choice √ Best Key Largo Snorkeling Tour

Snorkel Boat Tour of Two Reefs

 

 

Key Largo Snorkeling Tours- 9 Highest Rated In 2024!

 

Board a large catamaran boat and head out into the beautiful turquoise waters of Florida for this half-day snorkeling trip in the Florida Keys.

This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 830 reviews!

 

Tour length- Approximately 3.5 Hours

Board a large catamaran boat and head out into the beautiful turquoise waters of Florida for this half-day snorkeling trip in the Florida Keys.

Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or an expert, you’ll love getting out and exploring the United State’s only living coral reef.

Your captain will take you through the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, as well as John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which has some of the largest coral reefs in the world.

You’ll have a guide on the boat that can help you learn about the marine life and coral reefs that you see during your trip, as well as answer questions you may have.

 

What’s Included With This Tour?

  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Bottled water
  • Snorkel vest
  • Reef-safe sunscreen

Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:

Great chance to be out in the water! We did two snorkeling stops; saw shipwrecks and beautiful coral and sea life. Our captain was excellent- knowledgeable, helpful, fun, and first mate Dana was incredible as well! We loved every minute.

Cindy_S 

 

 

This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 75 reviews!

 

Tour length- Approximately 3.5 hours

 

This great snorkel tour in Key Largo allows you to hop aboard a brand new 45-foot snorkeling boat as you make your way through the Key Largo Marine Sanctuary.

During your nearly half day on the boat, you’ll get to experience some of the best places for snorkeling in the Florida Keys.

You’ll visit famous sites such as Christ of the Abyss. This is a submerged statue located in Dry Rocks, that is the third of its kind.

You’ll also have the chance to see other world famous locations including Grecian Rocks and Elbow Rocks.

Highly experienced divers will accompany you on your trip and are there to help with anything that you need.

During the tour, you have the chance of spotting amazing marine life such as sea turtles, sharks, lobster, eels, and more.

 

What’s Included With This Tour?

  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • 3.5 hours of snorkeling

Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:

Captains friendly/ helpful. Boat was large/ clean and comfortable. All staff very helpful, great customer service. Equipment seemed new, well maintained.

Kathy_C 

 

 

If you’re looking to spend a bit of time away from the crowds, then check out this small group private snorkeling trip.

This company is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 35 reviews!

 

Tour length- Approximately 3 hours, 15 minutes

 

If you’re looking to spend a bit of time away from the crowds, then check out this small group private snorkeling trip. 

You’ll head into John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and get to explore with just your group of up to 11 people.

Spend time with the friendly crew and jump into the water at two different locations along the reef.

The guides will help ensure that you have a wonderful time with just your group, and that even beginner snorkelers have fun.

While you’re in the water, search for marine life such as sea turtles, moray eels, and a variety of the over 500 species of fish that call this underwater world home.

 

What’s Included With This Tour?

  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Private snorkeling tour
  • Ice water

Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:

I had the best snorkeling experience of my life with Island Ventures. Having a private boat is worth it, I was able to feel comfortable and to be able to follow our snorkeling person to the reefs and coral life. An excellent 2 hour adventure, swimming with a turtle and the various sealife. A big thank to captain Ed and Willie. From veena

Veena_ 

 

 

If you have little ones with you or someone that has never been snorkeling before, then this family-friendly guided tour will be perfect for you.

This company is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 530 reviews!

 

Tour length- Approximately 2.5 Hours

 

If you have little ones with you or someone that has never been snorkeling before, then this family-friendly guided tour will be perfect for you.

The only requirement is that you’re able to swim, and the friendly tour guides will help ensure that you are educated from there.

Set sail into the turquoise waters of the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary and enjoy the fantastic views that you’ll have before you even get in the water.

Once you’ve arrived at the reef, jump in and explore the shallow water.

While you’re underwater, search for some of the species of fish that call the reef home and keep an eye out for others including turtles and eels.

The snorkel itself isn’t included in the price of the tour, but there are affordable options for sale at the check-in desk.

 

What’s Included With This Tour?

  • Fins/flippers
  • Snorkel vest
  • Snorkel mask
  • 2.5 hour tour

Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:

Great experience and a fantastic staff! From beginning to end, the friendly staff of the tour made this a safe and exciting experience for 1st timers, and experienced snorkelers alike. The boat and equipment was neat, clean, and sanitized, and my guest and I felt safe and confident the entire trip!! I’ll be back again!!

Steve_P 

 

 

 

Dive into a few of the best snorkeling areas in the Key Largo area on this tour, which includes everything that you’ll need to have a fun time underwater.

This tour is rated 4.5 Stars On Viator With Over 75 Reviews!

 

Tour length- Approximately 4 Hours

 

Dive into a few of the best snorkeling areas in the Key Largo area on this tour, which includes everything that you’ll need to have a fun time underwater.

Head out into the water with experienced diving professionals who are there to help you along the entire way.

You’ll get to experience two of the best areas for snorkeling in the Keys including places such as Christ of the Abyss and City of Washington.

Search for colorful and unique marine life as you explore the clear water and experience an opportunity that you’ll surely never forget!

 

What’s Included With This Tour?

  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Snacks
  • Ride on large boat

Here is what a past guest said about this tour:

Sammy and Captain Rob were great host. This was my husband’s and I first time snorkeling and Key Largo did not disappoint. It was a cloudy day when we headed out but skilled Captain Rob found a great spot where it was very sunny. We saw coral, tons of fish, turtles, sting rays and a barracuda!! The highlight for me was seeing the Christ of Abyss. Boat ride was pleasant and they had snacks and drink on board. We highly recommend this tour when in Key Largo!!

EdwardG_A 

 

 

Explore areas of America’s first undersea park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which are some of the best snorkeling locations.

This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 30 reviews! 

 

Tour length- Approximately 2.5 Hours

 

If you’d prefer to spend a bit more time with your own family rather than explore with a larger group, then book this tour where you’ll board a private charter with up to 6 people.

You’ll spend just under 3 hours on the water with a boat captain and friendly staff who are there to ensure that you have the best time.

Explore areas of America’s first undersea park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which are some of the best snorkeling locations.

Your guides will teach you about the area and educate you on what type of marine life you might see underwater on your tour.

While you’re on board, you can also enjoy the provided snacks and drinks as you sail off into the beautiful Florida waters.

 

What’s Included With This Tour?

  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Soda and bottled water
  • Snacks
  • Reef-safe sunscreen 
  • Snorkel vest

Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:

Captain Bob was a great guide! He was friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. Our family had a great boat ride to the Grecian Reef, enjoyed snorkeling the reef, and the hospitality on the ride back (drinks and snacks) was very welcomed! My seven year old was a bit apprehensive, but once he got the hang of the snorkel and mask, he decided he couldn’t wait to go again in the future! Great experience!

Heather_K 

 

 

Enjoy a private snorkel tour of Key Largo and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for just your group of family and friends, without the hassle of waiting in line or dealing with other parties.

This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 40 reviews! 

 

Tour length- Approximately 3 Hours

 

Enjoy a private snorkel tour of Key Largo and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for just your group of family and friends, without the hassle of waiting in line or dealing with other parties.

You’ll board the boat and embark on a snorkeling adventure with your trained guide, who comes into the water with you.

The guide will help show you where to best see the 1,400+ species of coral, tropical plants, and fish that call this coral reef home.

Spend about 3 hours out on the water, getting to know the beautiful underwater world that makes Florida such a special place.

 

What’s Included With This Tour?

  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Trained swim guide
  • Bottled water
  • Towels

Here’s what a past guest had to say about this tour:

I would highly recommend this for anyone who is looking to go snorkeling in key largo, especially if you have little to no experience snorkeling or being in the ocean. Captain Stewy and his wife are genuinely compassionate people. It is obvious that they host these charters because they truly enjoy being able to show the magic of the ocean to anyone interested. Both have great communication skills and made sure everyone was as comfortable as possible the entire trip. It was truly a unique experience and I believe having this private charter vs. one of the many large group charters offered in the area made a significant difference in the quality of the experience. Thank you Captain Stewy’s Charters for a great time.

Justin_V 

 

 

 

Gather just your group of up to 6 people, and enjoy just under 4 hours of time spent out on the water, exploring the area around John Pennekamp State Park.

This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 25 reviews! 

 

Tour length- Approximately 3.5 Hours

 

This is another great private tour that takes you out into the Atlantic Ocean for some exploring of the marine life that is under the water.

Gather just your group of up to 6 people, and enjoy just under 4 hours of time spent out on the water, exploring the area around John Pennekamp State Park.

Enjoy snacks, soda, and bottled water as your guides teach you about the area and the marine life that you may spot during your time.

You may see fish, as well as other wildlife such as stingrays.

 

What’s Included With This Tour?

  • Soda, water, and snacks
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Photo package

Here’s what a past guest had to say about this tour:

We had a great experience with Captain Bob and Captain Tommy. They were very knowledgeable and took us to two great spots away from the crowds. They were very friendly and we would highly recommend snorkeling with them. You will be happy you did 🙂

Evan_S 

 

 

 

Photo Credit- Amoray Dive Center

This half-day tour will have you exploring the Atlantic Ocean on a large catamaran, leaving from the Key Largo area.

This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 14 reviews! 

 

Tour length- Approximately 4 Hours

 

This half-day tour will have you exploring the Atlantic Ocean on a large catamaran, leaving from the Key Largo area.

Head into the third largest coral reef in the world and explore the beautiful sea life that lives under the surface.

Depending on the weather conditions, your guide will bring you to the best location, to ensure that you have a fantastic trip.

You also may enjoy a few light snacks and ice water as you cruise around the water, in search of great snorkeling locations.

 

What’s Included With This Tour?

  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Snacks and ice water
  • Half-day tour

Here’s what a past guest had to say about this tour:

The trip, the Captain and first mate were exceptional . Our experience was everything we hoped for and more. I will definitely use amoray divers on our next trip!

Kirk_R 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you’re looking for the best snorkeling conditions, book one of these Key Largo snorkeling tours between the months of April and August.

Best Time To Snorkel In Key Largo

If you’re looking for the best snorkeling conditions, book one of these Key Largo snorkeling tours between the months of April and August.

This is when the weather is the warmest and the marine life is more active. To avoid some of the crowds, book your trip closer to April and May.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Snorkeling In Key Largo Worth It?

Yes, you will get to experience some of the most fantastic snorkeling in Florida when in Key Largo. 

This includes getting to see the United State’s only living coral reef.

Is Snorkeling Better In Key West or Key Largo?

Key Largo is typically ranked as the better place for snorkeling because you have the opportunity to see so many beautiful coral reefs.

Key West is typically better known for its diving.

Where Can I Snorkel From Shore In Key Largo?

The only place for shore snorkeling in Key Largo is at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Although you can snorkel here, it isn’t great, and it’s recommended to book a tour.

 

 

What Should I Bring On A Key Largo Snorkeling Tour?

All of the tours on this list will provide almost everything you need for snorkeling, but there are a few additional things to pack.

Always remember your sunscreen to help protect your skin from the hot Florida sun.

On top of the sunscreen, you’ll also want sunglasses and a sun hat to keep the sun out of your face.  Lastly, bring a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated throughout the tour.

Here are more essentials for your trip!

 

Never hit the water without your sunscreen.  You’ll want at least SPF 30 to protect from the Florida sun.

 

 

Sun Bum Sun Screen 


If you’re planning a boat cruise, quick drying beach towels are an essential item to pack.  Unlike regular towels, quick drying beach towels are made from materials that dry quickly, meaning you won’t have to worry about them getting wet and heavy as the day goes on.

 Quick Drying Beach Towel

 

 

Bring back memories from your underwater adventure with this waterproof camera!

Waterproof Camera

Keep your phone dry and take beautiful pictures under water with a waterproof phone case. 

Waterproof Phone Case 

Final Thoughts: Key Largo Snorkeling Tours

With so many fantastic views, marine life, and coral reefs to see, booking a Key Largo snorkeling tour is a no-brainer!

Next time you visit the Florida Keys, use this list of the best tours to plan your epic day out on the water.

 

 

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Booking a last-minute trip to Key Largo?  

If so, we have you covered.  Here are some top recommended hotels and accommodations!

Top Hotels In Key Largo

Atlantic Bay Resort (High-Rated Beach Front Resort)

Seafarer Key Largo Resort And Beach – (Budget Hotel Nearby Beach)

Coconut Palm Inn – (Easy Access To Different Water Activities)

Azul Del Mar – (Top-Rated Beachfront Boutique Hotel)

 Looking To Get Around In Key Largo?

Check out rental car rates here! 🚗

 

 

 

Travel Resources

 

Book Your Next Trip!  For Accommodations and short-term rentals, I recommend Booking.com as they are the best in the business when it comes to rates and places to stay.

To Book Activities- For activities, I suggest booking with Viator, they have thousands of 5-star activities to choose from!

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