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 is the weather cancellation policy?
If the Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option must be canceled due to bad weather, and you cannot go on another day, you will be issued a full refund by Key West Scuba Diving.
Where is the meeting point for this activity?
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 final confirmation email from Key West Scuba Diving. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes it way to you!
Do you provide wetsuits?
Yes, upon request.
How long do I get to snorkel?
Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option includes 60 minutes of snorkeling.
Where can I park my car?
Detailed parking instructions for Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option will be included in your confirmation email.
Do you provide a shuttle to the Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option?
Currently, Key West Scuba Diving does not provide transportation to the Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option.
What do I need to show at check-in?
Key West Scuba Diving activities accept both printed and electronic vouchers (e-vouchers). You can either print the voucher and present a paper copy on the day of travel. Or, if you travel with a mobile device, simply show your Photo ID and present your voucher on your Smartphone or tablet on the day of travel.
I am unable to locate the check-in. What should I do?
If you arrive for your activity start point and you are unable to locate the check-in location, we first recommend calling the local contact phone number found on your confirmation email. If you are unable to reach the local contact, we will be more than happy to help you out.
Can I book this activity when I get there?
Key West Scuba Diving activities can only be booked online. It is recommended you pre-book your travel service to avoid disappointment as many of our tours and products are popular and can be sold out early. Therefore, visitors are encouraged to pre-book to ensure a satisfying, worry-free vacation.
Are my credit card details safe?
Your info’s safe with Key West Scuba Diving. We take data protection very seriously and have a 100% secure checkout for all transactions.
1) We use SSL to encrypt all data on the website and use a tokenized processing system from Stripe.
2) Stripe has been audited by a PCI-certified auditor and is certified to PCI Service Provider Level 1.
3) Our servers are monitored 24/7 for malicious activity and unauthorized access attempts.
Are gratuities (tip) included in the price?
No. On most Key West Scuba Diving tours and activities with guides, mates, captains, and assistance, tips are not included. Our general recommendation is 18-20% when you enjoy a quality service experience.
Can I book an activity and leave it open dated?
The majority of travel services provided by Key West Scuba Diving must have a pre-booked date designated in order for the activity to cater for passengers. Exceptions to this are attraction passes, hop on/hop off buses and trolley tours.
Will I get seasick on Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option?
If 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.
Is sea kayaking a safe activity?
Your safety is Key West Scuba Diving‘s number one concern. Our guides are the best trained professionals and will be constantly watching out for your safety. In general, sea kayaking is safer than most other outdoor pursuits – even bicycling!
Do I need kayaking experience or will you teach me?
No 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.
How stable are the kayaks and do they ever tip over?
The tandem kayaks Key West Scuba Diving uses on Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option use comfortably hold two paddlers and are extremely stable, much more than solo kayaks. Its actually quite difficult to tip a tandem kayak over. Capsizes happen to fewer than 1 out of 1000 our of participants. Nearly all capsizes are a result of water fights and other sorts of goofing around.
Are there any weight restrictions for kayaking?
The maximum capacity for kayak Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option is 340 lbs.
Can I go snorkeling if I cannot swim?
Yes, this is possible, as long as you are comfortable going into the water. All Key West Scuba Diving 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:
1) You will be wearing a flotation device at all times.
2) On many tours, there is a stairway from the boat into the water.
3) At all times there is 2 staff in water, 2 watching from the boat.
For these reasons, we believe that even non-swimmers can have a wonderful time on our snorkeling trips.
I've never snorkeled before, will I be OK?
First-time snorkelers can be assured of one-on-one instruction and assistance. We find introducing folks to our world very rewarding!
What are the age limits for snorkeling?
There 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.
Can we use our own snorkeling gear?
The snorkel gear we use on Key West Scuba Diving 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.
When do I need to arrive for check-in?
Unless otherwise noted, please arrive for check-in 30 minutes before your Key West Sail, Snorkel, Kayak with Sunset Option begins. The exact start time may be based on your chosen options and will be noted on the confirmation you receive after booking.
