Key West: Full Day Tour of Key West National Wildlife Refuge

Discover the lush ecosystems of the Key West National Wildlife Refuge during this full-day tour that combines sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling. For $120 per person, you get five hours of immersive activities, starting from the Historic Seaport in Key West. The tour is perfect for those eager to explore uninhabited mangrove islands, spot dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays, and enjoy a delicious all-you-can-eat buffet onboard. The sail on a tall ship adds a charming touch, making this experience both scenic and educational. While the tour offers plenty of wildlife viewing and water-based fun, it involves some physical activity like kayaking, which is suitable for most but may require a moderate level of mobility.

This tour is especially appealing to nature lovers and adventure seekers who want a comprehensive day of exploring the natural beauty surrounding Key West. It offers a balanced mix of sailing, paddling, snorkeling, and relaxing with refreshing drinks and hearty food. Keep in mind that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you will need to arrive at the designated check-in point, about 30 minutes before departure.

Key Points

• Price: $120 per person for a full five-hour experience.
• Start Location: Meets at the check-in booth at William Street in Key West.
• Activities: Sailing on a tall ship, guided kayaking or snorkeling in backcountry reefs, wildlife watching.
• Wildlife: Look out for dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays, and various bird species such as ospreys and blue herons.
• Food & Drinks: Enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring fried chicken, shrimp, deli meats, cheese, and bread, plus soft drinks, homemade sangria, beer, and wine.
• Duration: The tour lasts 5 hours, usually available in the morning.
• Restrictions: No luggage or large bags allowed; all guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
• What to Bring: Passport or ID, sunscreen, hat, swimwear, camera, and sunglasses.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day at the Historic Seaport

The adventure begins at the William Street check-in booth, located just past the Western Union sign and near the Schooner Wharf Bar. Arriving 30 minutes early is essential to sign waivers and receive your boarding pass. The sailing on the tall ship Appledore sets the tone for the day, offering scenic views of the ocean as you head toward the wildlife refuge. This departure point provides easy access for visitors staying near Elizabeth Street or the The Marker Resort.

The sailing experience on the schooner is a highlight, providing an authentic and relaxing way to start the day. The crew is friendly and professional, making sure everyone feels comfortable aboard. As the boat glides over the water, the gentle breeze and panoramic vistas set a peaceful mood before you arrive at the islands.

Exploring Uninhabited Mangrove Islands

Once reaching the Key West Wildlife Refuge, the focus shifts to discovering the mangrove islands. These uninhabited patches are teeming with marine life and are vital nurseries for many species. The guides are knowledgeable, offering insights into how mangroves survive in saltwater and their importance to the local ecosystem.

You are invited to choose between guided kayaking or snorkeling. The kayaking takes place in calm, shallow waters sheltered by the mangroves, making it ideal for paddlers of all levels. Paddling through the mangrove tunnels is a peaceful experience, with opportunities to spot tropical fish, stingrays, and sea turtles. Birdwatchers can look out for ospreys, frigates, blue herons, bald eagles, and roseate spoonbills.

The snorkeling offers a chance to witness colorful marine life over sponge gardens, with guides providing instruction suitable for beginners. Swimmers can admire the vivid fish and coral formations, or simply relax on the surface with a noodle and enjoy the sun.

Wildlife Encounters in the Refuge

The refuge is known for its vibrant wildlife. During the tour, expect to see dolphins playing nearby, and keep an eye out for sea turtles and manta rays gliding through the waters. The birdwatching component adds a layer of excitement, with the chance to observe bald eagles and roseate spoonbills in their natural habitat.

While wildlife sightings are common, they are not guaranteed due to the nature of the environment. The guides are experienced at spotting animals and will do their best to point out the most interesting sights. The ecosystem’s diversity makes this part of the tour particularly engaging, especially for those interested in marine and bird life.

Snorkeling and Kayaking Equipment

Guided snorkeling includes all necessary equipment, and the guides are happy to assist beginners. Whether floating over the backcountry reefs or paddling in the mangrove waters, the focus is on safety and enjoyment. Swimmers can explore sponge gardens and coral formations, while paddlers experience the tranquility of the sheltered waters.

For those who prefer not to swim or paddle, the deck offers plenty of space to relax and watch the activity below. The guides provide a relaxed atmosphere, ensuring everyone feels comfortable regardless of skill level.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch, Drinks, and Onboard Relaxation

After the water activities, it’s time to enjoy the all-you-can-eat buffet onboard. The feast includes fried chicken, shrimp, deli meats, cheeses, and bread, served fresh and plentiful. The buffet provides enough fuel for the rest of the day, complemented by soft drinks, filtered water, and homemade sangria.

The bar offers premium beer, wine, and chilled soda, allowing guests to unwind after their aquatic adventures. The deck becomes a social space where everyone can relax, share stories, or simply soak in the beautiful scenery while enjoying snacks like chocolate chip cookies or chips and dip.

Sailing Back to Key West

As the afternoon approaches, the sailboat raises anchor, leaving the islands behind. The return journey offers more chances to enjoy the ocean breeze and panoramic views, with drinks and snacks available to enhance the experience. The sailing provides a peaceful conclusion to the day’s activities, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on the wildlife and ecosystems explored.

The duration of the tour allows for a relaxed pace, with plenty of time for wildlife spotting and photo opportunities. The live guide ensures that every aspect of the day runs smoothly, adding context and answering questions along the way.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so travelers should plan to arrive at William Street at least 30 minutes before departure. Bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, swimwear, and a camera is recommended for comfort and capturing memories. Large luggage or unaccompanied minors are not permitted onboard, aligning with safety regulations.

The full five-hour experience typically runs in the morning, providing an ideal opportunity for those who want a lively start to their day. Guests should be prepared for moderate physical activity—kayaking and snorkeling—and should feel comfortable in the water.

Overall Value and Suitability

This full-day tour offers an engaging mix of sailing, wildlife viewing, water sports, and hearty food, making it a well-rounded option for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts. The price of $120 is reasonable given the scope of activities, included meals, and expert guides.

While wildlife sightings are probable, they are not guaranteed, and some guests may find the snorkeling not as colorful as hoped. Still, the scenic sailing, educational content, and relaxed vibe make this experience worthwhile for those seeking a comprehensive day in Key West’s natural environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Guests need to meet at the William Street check-in booth.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 5 hours, usually scheduled in the morning.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, sunscreen, hat, swimwear, camera, and sunglasses.

Can I participate if I don’t swim?
Yes, but snorkelers should be comfortable in shallow water. There is no indication that the tour is unsuitable for non-swimmers, and flotation devices are available.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays, and various bird species such as bald eagles and roseate spoonbills.

Is the food suitable for all diets?
The buffet includes fried chicken, shrimp, deli meats, and bread. Specific dietary restrictions are not mentioned, so it’s best to inquire if needed.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, homemade sangria, beer, and wine are offered after snorkeling, along with soft drinks.

Are there age restrictions?
Guests under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
There is no information about accessibility; physical activity is involved, so check in advance for specific needs.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby