Last Updated on January 27, 2023
Always On The Shore contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase, we make a small commission at no cost to you. For more information, please read the disclaimer page.
Are you looking to get into the water and experience some of the best snorkeling in the United States?
Well, look no further, because these Key West snorkeling tours will provide you with some unforgettable experiences and showcase what Florida really has to offer.
With vibrant coral reefs, hundreds of varieties of fish and marine life, and warm weather year-round, this tropical paradise is the perfect place to strap on a snorkel and dive under the water.
Continue reading for some of the top-rated tours to take during your Key West vacation!
Key West Snorkeling Tours-
12 Best In 2023!
This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 640 reviews!
Tour length- Be advised that this tour is approximately 15 hours
Start in Miami and embark on this full-day tour of some of the most beautiful places in Key West.
The day starts with a drive through 34 different islands as you make your way south, with a narrated tour of Florida’s history, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge.
Once you’ve arrived, you’ll get to spend about 6 full hours in Key West, exploring the island on your own.
When booking this tour, you can choose to add on a snorkeling tour, which will allow you about 3 hours to experience the well-known reefs found in Key West.
Or, book a tour on a glass-bottom boat or a hop-on, hop-off trolley.
The choice is up to you what you do with your full day spent in beautiful Key West.
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Transportation from Miami to Key West
- 6 hours of time in Key West
- Option to add snorkeling or other tours
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
The tour guide, Bus driver, Key West’s scenery all are wonderful. I will definitely recommend these to my friends and if possible I will come back again.
Pingzhou_L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 1,000 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 3 hours
Spend half of your day under the sunny Florida sky as you snorkel through the largest living coral reef system in the continental US.
You’ll start your day by hopping aboard a large catamaran and cruising out into the crystal-clear water as you get ready to dive on in.
Then, prepare yourself for some of the most beautiful views you’ll ever see. Colorful reefs, unique fish, and fascinating marine life are just a few of the things that call this underwater paradise home.
You’ll have the chance at spotting sea turtles, lobsters, stingrays, and even the possibility of meeting a pod of dolphins.
This tropical Key West snorkeling tour will have you wanting to go back for more the second you step on land!
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Required snorkeling equipment
- Complimentary beer, water, and soft drinks
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
The crew was very helpful and extremely friendly. The reef was as promised and saw lots of fish. The trip home was so much fun when drinks were provided. Will do it again!
John_G ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This company is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 760 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 3 hours
What could possibly be better than meeting a friendly pod of dolphins, just before you jump into the teal Florida waters to try out snorkeling?
On this cruise, you’ll get to experience both of these, in just 3 hours.
Journey across the tropical water into a well-known spot for seeing dolphins in their natural habitat. Watch them as they jump, splash, and play in the water.
Then, head into the Key West National Wildlife Refuge before you jump on into the ocean for what will become an unforgettable experience.
Watch out for colorful fish and vibrant coral. And once you’re ready to relax, spend some time above the water on the shaded catamaran while sipping on a complimentary soft drink, beer, or glass of wine.
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Unlimited soft drinks
- Snorkel equipment
- Complimentary beer or wine
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
Wonderful experience – staff was excellent. Highly recommend! We saw many dolphins and enjoyed our snorkeling trip!! Learned a lot about dolphins!
Laura_K ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This company is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 960 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 4.5 Hours
This unique tour allows you to experience a few of Florida’s best excursions with just one day trip from Key West.
Your knowledgeable guide will teach you all about the mangrove ecosystem as you kayak through them and watch for different tropical birds, fish, stingrays, and even sharks.
This tour is even perfect for beginners, as the kayaks are very stable and your guide will provide you with some tips on how to stay steady during your ride.
After a bit of kayaking, jump into the teal water and get to know the colorful coral reefs below you, where you’ll have even more chances of spotting unique and vibrant marine life.
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Snorkeling equipment
- Wetsuits for colder months
- Unlimited draft beer, wine, and soft drinks
- Light snacks
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
This trip was truly spectacular! Captain Mary and mate Jack were amazing guides. The kayaking was incredible- we saw a sea turtle, interesting fish and birds, and horseshoe crabs in a mangrove tunnel. The snorkeling was good- no wetsuit needed at all, because the water was so warm. Superb visibility for the snorkeling. They even had a prescription snorkel mask so my husband could see better!
Susan_P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Sunset Watersports
This tour is rated 4.5 Stars On Viator With Over 160 Reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 3 Hours
Get a head start on your day with a morning snorkeling tour from Key West, which includes your breakfast! This tour includes one of the newest and fastest catamarans in the area, so your time spent in the water will be maximized!
Hop aboard the catamaran as you embark into the calm morning waters of the Gulf of Mexico, searching for the best locations to snorkel.
Enjoy swimming amongst sea turtles and plenty of tropical fish as you venture into the fantastic wonder of the ocean.
After you’ve snorkeled to your heart’s content, enjoy a fresh breakfast of muffins, cereal, fruit, and more. Plus, you can enjoy unlimited beer and mimosas as you cruise back to shore.
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Breakfast
- Unlimited mimosas and beer
- Snorkeling equipment
Here is what a past guest said about this tour:
My camera did not take the best photos but the underwear sites were AMAZING. Beautiful fish and we even saw a small shark. No worries tho…. It swam away fast. The captain and mate’s we super friendly. And did I mention there were Free unlimited mimosa’s!!!!
Sabrina_B ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 225 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 3 Hours
If you’re a lover of sunsets, snorkeling, and spending time in a tropical paradise, then this fantastic snorkeling trip from Key West will be perfect for you.
Set sail into the bright and crystal-clear Florida waters for a night out that you’ll never forget.
Enjoy some time snorkeling in the water at America’s one and only living coral reef, which is home to hundreds of fish and bright-colored coral.
When you climb back onto the boat, listen to Reggae beats as you watch the sun set beyond the ocean and make your way back to shore.
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Snorkeling equipment
- Complimentary alcoholic beverages
Here’s what a past guest said about this tour:
The crew started off by teaching us safety with a sprinkle of comedy. Then we loaded quick, set sail quick, & once we reached the reef we jumped in and explored! Once we were done, everyone dried off, drinks were served and we were happily sailing back to shore with a beautiful sunset! Can’t complain for a first time snorkeling experience!
Spencer_P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This tour is rated 4..5 Stars on Viator with over 125 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 3 Hours
This combination tour allows you to experience three of Key West’s top attractions; watching dolphins, marveling at the famous Key West sunset, and snorkeling in the barrier reef.
If you’re short on time but still want to experience all that Florida has to offer, this is the perfect tour for you.
Start by visiting dolphins in their natural habitat in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, before heading into the clear water for some snorkeling.
Watch for the colorful fish and coral, and end the day by taking in the marvelous view of the sun setting behind the ocean.
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Snorkeling equipment
- Complimentary alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Here’s what a past guest had to say about this tour:
Captain Adam, JC, and his other crewman were amazing. We got to see many dolphins and Had a great time snorkeling. My oldest (8) was on the deck with the Captain and he offered to let her drive. She has gone on and on about how much fun she had. Thank you for an amazing experience!
Jonathan_P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 430 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 4.5 Hours
Head out into the Florida waters off of the coast of Key West to a location that won’t be packed with tourists, as mostly only locals know of it.
Spend time relaxing on the sandbar, paddleboard, or kayak in the ocean, or head out for some snorkeling in the shallow water.
Your guides will help point you in the direction of the best snorkeling, and will even help those beginners.
Before heading back to shore, enjoy a light meal, depending on the time of your tour, and soak in the sunny skies and tranquil feeling of being at sea.
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Snorkeling equipment
- Light breakfast and lunch
- Complimentary water, soda, and alcoholic beverages
Here’s what a past guest had to say about this tour:
Captain Stevie and Brooke (lifeguard/bartender/first mate) made the trip memorable. Lots of good info about local wildlife and other Key West info! Excellent snorkeling and a interesting kayak tour, not to mention the beverages on the way home!
Benjamin_R ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Dolphin Echo
This tour is rated 4.5 Stars on Viator with over 285 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 4 Hours
Embark from the coast of Key West to spend a half day out on the water in search of beautiful reefs and playful dolphins.
This will surely be quite the adventure, and a day you’ll remember for a long time. Watch for dolphins jumping alongside the catamaran, hop into the water for some easy snorkeling, and just enjoy the day under the warm Florida sun.
On this tour, you’ll even have the chance of seeing a shipwreck, as well as a sponge garden, which are both home to large varieties of marine life.
Even beginner snorkelers will enjoy this snorkeling trip from Key West, as it takes place in shallow water.
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Drinks and light snacks
- Snorkeling equipment
- Alcoholic beverages
Here’s what a past guest had to say about this tour:
We saw about 5 dolphins who were very active jumping in the water. We snorkeled where the sponges were. Saw lobsters, variety of fish, and a nurse shark! Joe and Justin were the crew and they were very informative and laid back. Highly recommend!
Stacey_V ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Danger Charters
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 330 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 6.5 Hours
There’s nothing better than an all-inclusive tour, where everything you could desire is included in your day!
If you have a full day to spend out in the beautiful Florida Keys, this is the best tour for you!
Spend time exploring the reefs, searching for rainbow-colored fish and vibrant coral, and enjoying a buffet lunch.
This all-inclusive tour allows you to explore the Key West National Wildlife Refuge, snorkel, and kayak across the calm water.
And when you get hungry, hop on board to enjoy a delicious lunch and unlimited drinks.
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Kayaking and snorkeling equipment
- Lunch buffet
- Unlimited soft drinks, beer, and wine
Here’s what a past guest had to say about this tour:
We’ve been on a week long trip to Disney, South Beach Miami, and now Key West. Danger Excursion has been the highlight of the trip for both my husband and I and our two kids (ages 9 and 17). Service was phenomenal and the Activites were so incredible. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!
Traci_P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Floridays
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 65 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 3 Hours
On this Key West snorkeling tour, you’ll get to experience the water with a smaller group and avoid the crowds.
Your captain will ensure that you are taken to the best snorkeling location for that day, and then you’ll get to dive into the clear water and see what life underwater is like.
Keep an eye out for eels, dolphins, colorful fish, turtles, and more. It also isn’t uncommon to see some of these marine creatures on your boat ride to the reef!
On your way back to shore, relax on the large sailboat and enjoy the cool ocean breeze on your face.
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Snorkeling equipment
- Soda, water, alcoholic drinks
Here’s what a past guest had to say about this tour:
Fabulous crew and boat! They made sure we were all comfortable and not thirsty the entire time. We saw so many fish snorkeling at the gorgeous reef! Highly recommend this local crew!
Jeff_B ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit- Fury Key West Snorkeling
This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with over 20 reviews!
Tour length- Approximately 4 Hours
Do you have kiddos that are tagging along on your snorkeling adventure? Then this all-inclusive tour with a waterslide is perfect for you.
Start by snorkeling at some of Florida’s reefs, and then enjoy some time wandering around the nearby sandbar.
Fly down the 25-foot inflatable waterslide, which your kids will have a blast on! Or enjoy floating around on a swimming noodle or boogie board.
Since it’s all-inclusive you’ll have access to breakfast, lunch, snacks, drinks, and more during your tour.
What’s Included With This Tour:
- Breakfast, lunch, and snacks
- Soda, coffee, and bottled water
- Snorkeling equipment
Here’s what a past guest had to say about this tour:
This excursion was an amazing- great food and friendly knowledgeable and accommodating captains and crew. The Captains and crew went above and beyond to make trip excellent in the face of uncooperative weather (windy) finding a great spot for us to snorkel and pointing out all the different types of fish. The winds died down just enough to allow them to put out the awesome slide which was a huge hit with my 9 year old daughter. Can’t recommend this enough.
amanda_s ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Key West Snorkeling- FAQ’s
Does Key West Have Good Snorkeling?
Yes, Key West has fantastic snorkeling, and is in fact one of the most well-known and well-loved destinations for snorkelers in the country!
Being home to the only living barrier reef in the country makes Key West a prime location for snorkeling.
Can You Snorkel in Key West Without a Tour?
Yes, you can snorkel in Key West without booking a tour, but you, unfortunately, won’t get the same experience as you would with one.
To reach America’s only living coral reef, which offers some of the best snorkeling, you’ll need a tour.
What’s the Best Time to Snorkel in Key West?
The best months for snorkeling in Key West are between December and May. This is because the weather is typically calmer, it’s out of hurricane season, and the crowds are less.
Can You Snorkel Anywhere in Key West?
Yes, you can snorkel from any of Key West’s public beaches, although to experience the best snorkeling, it’s best to get out on a boat via a tour.
There is only so much you can see from the shore.
What Should I Bring On A Key West 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
Keep your phone dry and take beautiful pictures under water with a waterproof phone case.
Waterproof Phone Case
Final Thoughts: Key West Snorkeling Tours
While all of Florida is known for its serene beauty and tropical paradise, Key West is especially recognized for its coral reefs and great snorkeling.
Each of these Key West snorkeling tours will provide you with a one-of-a-kind opportunity to go under the surface and experience life underwater during your Florida vacation!
You may be interested in these related posts:
10 Best Beaches In Marathon, FL (And Nearby)!
5 Places For Key West Jet Ski Rentals
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!
Looking To Start Your Own Travel Blog Or Take Yours To The Next Level?
Check Out This Free Workshop!– I personally joined Scale Your Travel Blog in 2021 and my website has grown exponentially.
