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Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Experience a fully customizable private boat tour in Key West with a local captain. Enjoy snorkeling, sandbars, dolphin watching, or sunset cruises for $250 per person.

For those seeking a personalized boating adventure, the Custom Charters with a Local Captain in Key West offers an exceptional experience. Priced at $250 per person and lasting approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, this private tour provides a flexible way to explore the waters surrounding Key West without the hassle of renting a boat yourself. The tour departs from 711 Eisenhower Drive and is fully customizable to match your group’s interests, making it ideal for families or small groups of up to six passengers.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to select from a variety of activities such as sandbar visits, snorkeling, dolphin watching, or even a sunset cruise. The tour is led by Vaughn Willis, a seventh-generation local captain, renowned for his friendliness and extensive knowledge of the area. The experience is designed to be flexible, with tour times that can be adjusted to fit your schedule, ensuring a relaxed and personalized adventure on the water.

Planning more time in Key West? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
This tour departs from 711 Eisenhower Drive in Key West and offers a completely custom experience tailored to your preferences. You can choose to relax on a sandbar, go island hopping, or enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters. The tour offers the chance to spot dolphins and enjoy beautiful sunsets, with options to combine multiple activities within the 3.5-hour window.
The capacity for up to six passengers ensures a personalized and intimate outing, avoiding crowded boat tours. The tour’s flexible timing makes it easy to align with your plans, whether you want a daytime adventure, an afternoon relaxation, or a sunset cruise. The meeting point is conveniently located, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Vaughn Willis leads these tours, bringing decades of local knowledge and a friendly, engaging style. Reviews praise Captain Vaughn as informative, easy to work with, and entertaining, making the journey both educational and fun. His familiarity with the area guarantees that guests are taken to the most amazing spots and hidden gems that only a local would know.
Guests consistently mention that Vaughn’s personalized approach and ability to tailor the day make the experience memorable. His knowledge of the waters and wildlife enhances dolphin watching and snorkeling opportunities, ensuring a rich and enjoyable adventure.

The main stop for this tour is Key West, but the highlight is the customized itinerary. Guests often enjoy visits to sandbars, which are perfect for relaxing, taking photos, or paddling. Snorkeling is available in areas known for crystal-clear waters and marine life, while dolphin watching adds an exciting chance to see these intelligent creatures in their natural environment.
Another favored activity is a sunset cruise, where travelers witness the stunning Key West sunset over picturesque islands. Since the tour is flexible, it can combine multiple activities or focus solely on one, depending on your interests.

The tour begins at 711 Eisenhower Drive in Key West. The mobile ticket makes access straightforward, and the activity is near public transportation for ease of reaching the meeting point. The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, fostering a relaxed atmosphere.
The experience requires good weather, and in case of poor weather conditions, you are offered a full refund or alternative date. The confirmation is immediate upon booking, and service animals are allowed.

At approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, this tour strikes a balance between comprehensive exploration and relaxed pace. The itinerary is not rushed, allowing ample time for enjoying each activity and soaking in the scenery. The flexible schedule ensures you can spend more time on your preferred activities, whether snorkeling, dolphin watching, or enjoying a serene sunset.

While the $250 per person price might seem higher than some group tours, the personalized nature and tailored itinerary justify the cost. Guests get exclusive access to beautiful spots and the guidance of a local expert, creating a more intimate and memorable experience. The small group size also enhances comfort and allows Vaughn to focus on your group’s specific interests.

This tour appeals most to travelers seeking flexibility and a personalized experience. It suits families, small groups, or anyone who wants to enjoy the waters around Key West without the crowds. The ability to combine activities like snorkeling, sandbars, and sunset viewing makes this trip versatile and engaging.
Captain Vaughn’s reputation for being knowledgeable, friendly, and easy to work with makes an already excellent tour even better. The positive reviews highlight the stunning views and entertaining commentary, elevating the experience beyond merely a boat ride.
The Custom Charters with a Local Captain offer an excellent way to explore Key West’s waters on a tailor-made basis. The $250 per person fee includes a half-day, private experience guided by an enthusiastic local with deep area knowledge. The customizable itinerary ensures that your day can be spent relaxing on a sandbar, snorkeling, dolphin spotting, or watching a sunset.
This tour is best suited for those who value flexibility and personalized service, and who want to avoid crowded group tours. The small group size and private setting foster a comfortable and engaging experience, making it a highlight for many visitors.
While the price point may be a consideration for budget travelers, the quality of the experience and the expert guidance offered by Vaughn Willis create a compelling value. For an authentic, relaxed, and tailor-made adventure on the waters of Key West, this private charter stands out.
“Captain Vaughn was amazing and so informative. The trip was not rushed and he took us to the most amazing spots. We will definitely be booking him …”
What activities can I include in the tour?
You can customize your experience to include sandbar visits, snorkeling, dolphin watching, or a sunset cruise. The tour is designed to match your interests.
How many people can join this private tour?
The boat can accommodate up to six passengers, providing an intimate and personalized outing.
What is the cost per person?
The tour costs $250 per person, covering approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes of private boating.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.
Is this tour suitable for children or service animals?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed during the tour.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 711 Eisenhower Drive in Key West, making logistics straightforward.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you are offered a full refund or an alternative date.