Full-Day Key West Tour and Coral Reef Snorkeling with Open Bar

The Full-Day Key West Tour and Coral Reef Snorkeling with Open Bar offers an appealing combination of land and water adventures, all starting from Miami for just $99 per person. With an estimated 15-hour duration, this tour includes round-trip bus transportation, independent exploration time in Key West, and a luxurious snorkeling cruise. The tour is ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, self-guided city exploring, and relaxing boat trips with unlimited drinks.

While reviews highlight excellent guides and great snorkeling when conditions permit, some travelers note long travel times and variability in snorkeling experiences. The tour’s flexible design and open bar make it a popular choice for travelers seeking a full day of leisure and adventure in the Florida Keys.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $99 includes transportation, snorkeling gear, and unlimited drinks.
• Pickup options are available at two convenient Miami locations, with a typical departure around 7:15 am.
• Self-guided exploration gives travelers around 6.5 hours to enjoy Key West at their own pace.
• Snorkeling is scheduled for 1 pm, with free gear and a catamaran cruise to a reef area, though weather can affect the experience.
• The open bar serves beer, sodas, water and alcoholic drinks after snorkeling, adding to the relaxed vibe.
• Tour reviews note mixed snorkeling quality, especially when jellyfish are present, and some express disappointment in the reef sighting.

Departure and Meeting Arrangements in Miami

The tour starts at 340 Biscayne Blvd, Miami at a time shortly after 7:15 am. Travelers can opt for pickup at their Miami hotel or meet directly at the Holiday Inn in downtown Miami. The local operator confirms pickup times closer to the tour date, typically around 7:15 am. Parking is available at the meeting point, with fees applicable. The tour ends back at the starting location around 9-10 pm after the return from Key West.

Scenic Drive on the Overseas Highway to Key West

The journey involves a long scenic bus ride along the Overseas Highway, renowned for its ocean views and bridges connecting the Florida Keys. The drive, which departs early, is a chance to relax and enjoy the views with insider tips provided by the driver. Some reviews mention the bus being very cold, so bringing a jacket is advised. The duration of the ride emphasizes the importance of patience, especially for travelers who prefer shorter trips.

Free Time in Key West for Personal Exploration

Once in Key West, the tour offers approximately 6.5 hours for independent exploration. The stop at Mallory Square allows for about 6 hours of sightseeing, beach lounging, or visiting local shops and restaurants. The schedule is flexible, so travelers can wander at their own pace before boarding the catamaran for the snorkeling trip at 1 pm.

Key West is known for its colorful streets, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife, making the free time highly valuable. The guide is expected to offer insider recommendations, helping travelers find favorite spots for food and drinks.

Snorkeling on the Catamaran at the Coral Reef

The highlight for many is the snorkeling cruise onboard a luxury catamaran, which includes unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The snorkeling gear is sanitized and provided onboard, with the captain choosing the reef location based on weather conditions. Common snorkel sites include Sand Key Lighthouse and Rock Key, though visibility and marine life can vary.

However, the reviews reveal a mixed picture. Some travelers enjoy seeing tropical fish and appreciate the relaxed atmosphere with the open bar. Others find the water conditions challenging, especially if jellyfish are present, which can diminish the snorkeling experience. The life vests provided are standard, but review comments suggest improvements could be made to equipment.

The Atmosphere on the Catamaran

The catamaran cruise is described as luxurious, with free-flowing drinks creating a festive, laid-back mood. The open bar includes beer, sodas, and water, with alcoholic drinks served after snorkeling. This feature is consistently praised, enhancing the overall relaxation and enjoyment of the trip.

The crew, including Captain Steve and others praised in reviews, are noted for being friendly and helpful. The onboard environment fosters a feeling of leisure, making the cruise a perfect way to unwind after exploring Key West.

Exploring Key West Independently

Once ashore, the self-guided aspect allows travelers to explore at their own pace. Some spend their time relaxing on the beach, visiting local bars and restaurants, or wandering the colorful streets. The insider tips from the driver help pinpoint popular spots for food, drinks, or sightseeing.

Key West’s attractions include its pastel houses, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife. With around 6 hours of free time, visitors can comfortably visit local landmarks or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of this famed island.

Return Trip and End of the Tour

The bus departs Key West around 6 pm, heading back to Miami. The journey lasts until approximately 9-10 pm, concluding the tour at the original meeting point in Miami. The return ride provides another opportunity to relax or reflect on the day’s highlights.

Pricing, Inclusions, and What Not to Expect

The tour costs $99 per person, covering round-trip transportation, snorkeling gear, and unlimited drinks onboard the catamaran. The stop for breakfast en route is at your own expense. Food and towels are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

While the open bar is a major feature, some reviews point out discrepancies in what drinks are offered—with some noting no unlimited drinks onboard the boat at certain times. The tour does not include a guided tour of Key West itself; instead, it emphasizes self-exploring.

Weather and Snorkeling Conditions

The snorkeling experience is weather-dependent. If sea conditions are not safe, the snorkel portion may be canceled, and a full refund for that part is issued. This variability means that marine visibility and marine life sightings can be unpredictable. Some reviews mention poor water clarity and the presence of jellyfish, which can diminish the quality of the snorkeling.

Accessibility and Participation

The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including those not experienced in snorkeling. Life jackets are provided, and swimming is not required if participants prefer to stay onboard or just enjoy the cruise. The bus has restrooms and stops for breaks during the journey.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Details

Reservations can be canceled for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refunds available if canceled early. The tour requires good weather, and in case of cancellations due to weather, travelers are offered alternative dates or full refunds. The group size is limited to 55 travelers to ensure a comfortable experience.

The Full-Day Key West Tour and Coral Reef Snorkeling with Open Bar provides a cost-effective way to enjoy the Florida Keys’ scenery, local culture, and marine life. Its self-guided format and relaxed cruise atmosphere appeal most to those who value independent exploration paired with leisurely boat rides. However, snorkeling conditions can vary, and some may find the long drive a bit tiring. Overall, it offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, suited to fun-loving travelers ready for a full day of sun, sea, and city sights.