A Snorkel Tour with a Twist of History, Marathon, Florida Keys

Discover the Unique Snorkel and Historic Tour in Marathon, Florida Keys

The Snorkel Tour with a Twist of History offers a captivating way to experience the Florida Keys. Priced at $70 per person and lasting roughly 3 hours, this excursion departs from the Skipjack Resort & Marina in Marathon. It combines vibrant reef exploration with engaging stories about the area’s past, making it ideal for those who want more than just underwater scenery. The tour takes place aboard the IslandPearl, a 50-foot vessel with a colorful past—once serving as the liberty boat for the USS Roosevelt. This blend of history and marine adventure appeals to a broad range of visitors, including those who prefer to stay dry or have family members with different interests.

A notable feature of this tour is the pickup service, providing added convenience. The tour’s design emphasizes a relaxed atmosphere, with opportunities to see iconic landmarks along Marathon and explore vibrant reefs packed with marine life. With a maximum of 30 travelers, it maintains an intimate feel, ideal for those wanting a personalized experience. The tour’s flexibility, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, further enhances its attractiveness for travelers seeking a reliable, well-rounded day in the Keys.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $70 per person and lasts about 3 hours.
• Historic Significance: The vessel IslandPearl has a storied past as a liberty boat for the USS Roosevelt.
• Stops and Highlights: Includes visits to the other side of the Seven Mile Bridge, Henry Flagler’s workcamp, and vibrant reefs teeming with marine life.
• Meeting Point: Starting from Skipjack Resort & Marina in Marathon, with pickup offered.
• Group Size: Limited to a maximum of 30 travelers for a comfortable experience.
• Booking Flexibility: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

The Starting Point in Marathon: Easy Access and Convenience

The tour begins at 19 Sombrero Blvd, Marathon, FL 33050, at the Skipjack Resort & Marina. This central location makes it straightforward for visitors to reach, whether they are staying locally or arriving via public transportation. The inclusion of pickup adds convenience, especially for those preferring to avoid the hassle of arranging transport. The mobile ticket system allows for a smooth check-in process, helping you start your adventure without delay.

The IslandPearl: A Vessel with a Colorful Past

Travelers will board the IslandPearl, a vessel notable for its classic 50-foot design combined with modern comforts. Its history as a liberty boat for the USS Roosevelt adds a special touch to the trip, connecting guests with a piece of maritime history. The vessel’s size ensures enough space for comfort while maintaining a manageable group size, capped at 30 participants. This setup promotes a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention from the crew.

Exploring Marathon’s Iconic Landmarks from the Water

One of the tour’s highlights is viewing Marathon’s iconic landmarks during the scenic cruise. Passengers get to see the other side of the Seven Mile Bridge, a famous structure symbolizing the Keys’ engineering feats. The guide shares engaging stories about the area’s historic landmarks and the construction of the railway bridge, thanks to Henry Flagler’s workcamp. These stories provide context and deepen the experience for history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

Stop at Henry Flagler’s Workcamp: A Glimpse into the Past

The tour includes a stop at Henry Flagler’s workcamp, where travelers learn about the construction of the railway bridge. This historic site offers insights into the Keys’ development during the early 20th century. The story of Flagler’s workcamp highlights the significant efforts that shaped the region, connecting the scenic views to the area’s industrial and transportation history.

Visiting the Reefs and Marine Life Abundance

After exploring the land-based landmarks, the tour ventures to vibrant reefs teeming with marine life. Passengers can snorkel in these clear waters, experiencing an underwater world filled with colorful fish and coral formations. Even for those less inclined to get wet, the water views and chance to relax on the boat make this segment enjoyable. The reef visit offers a visual feast and an opportunity to connect with the natural beauty of the Keys.

Relaxing on the Water and Taking in the Views

For guests who prefer to stay dry, the scenic cruising along Marathon provides plenty of chances to enjoy the water’s serenity. The vessel’s comfortable setup allows for spectacular views of the coastline, bridges, and island scenery. The guide’s narration enhances the experience by pointing out notable landmarks and sharing stories, making this a well-rounded journey.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour’s confirmation is received at the time of booking, ensuring immediate clarity on your reservation. It operates under flexible cancellation policies, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. This flexibility offers peace of mind in case of unexpected changes or weather issues, as the tour requires good weather for optimal experience. If canceled due to poor weather, travelers are offered a reschedule or full refund.

What Sets This Tour Apart in the Keys

This snorkel tour combines marine exploration with historic storytelling, providing a more comprehensive experience than typical snorkeling trips. The vessel’s historic background and the landmark stops create a unique narrative thread that enriches the entire trip. Its small group size maintains a personalized atmosphere, perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a memorable day.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is ideal for those seeking a mix of scenery, history, and marine life in a relaxed setting. It suits less adventurous guests who prefer to stay dry or are interested in local stories, as well as family groups with varied interests. The price point and 3-hour duration make it accessible for many visitors looking for an engaging yet manageable excursion.

Final Thoughts on the Marathon Snorkel and History Tour

The A Snorkel Tour with a Twist of History offers a rich combination of underwater adventure and cultural storytelling. The historic vessel, scenic landmarks, and vibrant reefs deliver a well-rounded Keys experience. Its flexible booking options, small group size, and inclusive stops ensure a comfortable, engaging day for all types of travelers.

While it’s not an all-day extravaganza, this tour provides a meaningful taste of what the Florida Keys have to offer, perfect for those wanting a short but meaningful adventure. Visitors who appreciate history, scenery, and marine life will find this trip a rewarding addition to their Keys itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $70 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from 19 Sombrero Blvd, Marathon, FL 33050 at the Skipjack Resort & Marina.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered for added convenience.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include the other side of the Seven Mile Bridge, Henry Flagler’s workcamp, and the reef for snorkeling.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
The tour offers reef exploration, suitable for most participants, but specific skill levels are not detailed.

What should I bring?
While not specified, it’s advisable to bring essentials like sunscreen, a towel, and waterproof gear if snorkeling.

Is the vessel accessible for everyone?
No specific accessibility information is provided, but the vessel’s size and comfort suggest a generally accommodating setup.

What makes this tour unique?
Its blend of marine adventure and historic storytelling, along with the vessel’s historic significance, set it apart from standard snorkeling outings.