1.5 Hour (20 miles) Waverunner Tour. See Mangrove Tunnels, 20 Islands & SandBar

Explore Islamorada’s Waterways on a 1.5-Hour WaveRunner Tour for $259

This 1.5-hour WaveRunner tour in Islamorada, Florida, covers 20 miles of stunning waterways, including mangrove tunnels, islands, and the famous sandbar. Priced at $259 per person, it offers a thrilling way to see the area’s natural beauty and marine life in a relatively short time. The tour is popular enough to be booked 18 days in advance on average, making it a well-loved activity for visitors seeking an active, outdoor experience in the Keys.

The tour starts at 82749 Overseas Hwy in Islamorada and is operated by Florida Keys Watersports. With a maximum of 7 travelers per group, it maintains a personal feel, whether you’re riding solo or with friends. The mobile ticket system provides a seamless check-in process, and life vests, lockers, and showers are included for your convenience. Keep in mind, gratuity is not included but is typically around $25 per jetski.

While this tour offers plenty of fun riding through open water and mangrove passages, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention a slightly rushed experience or large groups that could impact the flow. Still, the majority praise its spectacular scenery and knowledgeable guides, making it a rewarding adventure for those who want a quick yet comprehensive water tour.

Key Points

• Duration and Distance: 1.5 hours covering 20 miles through Islamorada’s waters
• Price Point: $259 per person, booking about 18 days ahead on average
• Highlights: Ride Yamaha WaveRunners through mangrove tunnels, islands, reefs, and visit the famous Sand Bar
• Marine Encounters: Opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and birdlife along the route
• Included Amenities: Life vests, lockers, and showers are provided
• Group Size: Limited to 7 travelers for a more intimate experience

Easy Access from Islamorada’s Main Meeting Point

The tour departs from 82749 Overseas Hwy, a central location in Islamorada. This spot is accessible near public transportation, allowing visitors to join the adventure with minimal fuss. The activity ends back at the same starting point, making it straightforward to plan your day around this water excursion.

Riding Yamaha WaveRunners in the Florida Keys

Participants get to drive Yamaha WaveRunners, which are praised for their top-notch quality and ease of handling. No prior experience is necessary, and guides are available to help newcomers get comfortable. The balance of open water riding and tranquil mangrove cruising offers a mix of thrills and scenic relaxation.

Marine Life and Sightseeing Along the Route

The tour’s route provides chances to spot dolphins and manatees in their natural environment. During the ride, guide Sharkey has been noted for taking several pictures, including shots of a mother dolphin and her calf that approached the jet skis. Along the way, you also see giant tarpon, impressive homes, and sunken sailboats, adding interest to the water-based sightseeing.

Visits to the Islamorada Sand Bar and Islands

A key feature of this tour is a stop at the world-famous Islamorada Sand Bar, a lively spot where you can walk around and soak up the sun. The sandbar is known for its vibe with locals, and the views from here are often highlighted as a highlight. The tour also explores various islands, reefs, and mangrove tunnels, offering a diverse look at the area’s geography.

Pacing, Experience, and Group Dynamics

The majority of reviews emphasize that the tour duration is just right, giving enough time for speeding through open water and cruising through mangroves without feeling rushed. Guides like Janette and Sharkey are praised for their friendly demeanor and helpfulness. Some reviews mention that the large group size can lead to the Sand Bar being skipped if the group is too big, which is worth considering if visiting that stop is your priority.

Practical Tips for Participants

Travelers should arrive early to complete a boater safety course online before the tour. This is required to participate and ensures smooth boarding. Be prepared for warm weather and bring along personal items to store in the provided lockers. Since gratuity is optional, a tip of around $25 per jet ski is customary if you enjoy the experience.

Strengths and Areas for Improvement

The strengths of this tour include its scenic views, marine life sightings, knowledgeable guides, and well-maintained equipment. Many reviews call it a “great value” for a thrilling and scenic experience in Islamorada.

An occasional criticism is that the tour can feel rushed, especially if the group size affects the itinerary. Some guests express disappointment if the Sand Bar or other stops are skipped due to large groups, so booking early or in smaller groups can enhance the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity suits adventurers of all skill levels eager to speed across the water or gently cruise through mangroves. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a fun, active day on the water. The inclusive amenities and marine sightings make it especially appealing for nature lovers and first-time jet ski riders.

Final Thoughts on the Islamorada WaveRunner Tour

For $259, this tour delivers a balanced mix of excitement and sightseeing in Islamorada’s beautiful waters. Its small group size, quality equipment, and knowledgeable guides make it a trustworthy choice. While some may find the itinerary slightly rushed or large groups less ideal, the majority will appreciate the scenery, marine encounters, and fun riding experience.

If you’re looking for a short, active adventure that showcases the key highlights of the area, this WaveRunner tour offers a thrilling and scenic journey in the Florida Keys.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Yamaha WaveRunners are easy to handle, and guides assist newcomers to feel comfortable riding.

What is included in the price?
The price covers WaveRunners/Jetskis, life vests, lockers, and showers.

Can I see marine animals during the tour?
Yes, the route offers opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and birds.

What should I bring?
Bring personal items for storage in lockers; wear appropriate warm-weather clothing and sunscreen.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs and ends at 82749 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included; around $25 per jet ski is suggested.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. Canceled tours due to weather are fully refunded or rescheduled.

Are there any group size restrictions?
Yes, a maximum of 7 travelers per group helps keep experiences personal.

How do I book this tour?
Advance booking is recommended, and the activity is available through online platforms like Viator for easy reservations.