Miami: Key West Boat Tour w/ Optional Snorkeling & Open Bar

The Miami: Key West Boat Tour with Optional Snorkeling and Open Bar offers a budget-friendly adventure that combines scenic cruising, marine exploration, and lively drinks. Priced at just $18 per person, this 18-hour tour from Miami Beach is designed for those who want a straightforward way to visit Key West with minimal fuss and maximum enjoyment. The tour includes round-trip transportation, a boat ride, and the chance to snorkel in the largest coral ecosystem in the mainland US, making it a compelling option for travelers seeking both relaxation and marine adventure. However, it’s worth noting that the overall rating of 3.6 out of 5 reflects some mixed reviews, mainly about the comfort on the bus and communication issues with staff.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate value for money, don’t mind a long day, and are looking for a hassle-free trip with some snorkeling and beverage options. The optional snorkeling adds an exciting element, but it’s not included if you choose the base package. The meeting point is conveniently located at Collins Avenue in South Beach, with early departure at 6:30 AM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day.

Key Points

• Affordable price: Only $18 per person for an 18-hour trip from Miami to Key West.
• Includes round-trip transportation and optional boat tour and snorkeling.
• Snorkeling takes place in the largest coral ecosystem in the mainland US, where vibrant marine life like Barracudas, sea turtles, and colorful fish can be seen.
• An open bar is available if the upgrade option is selected, enhancing the cruising experience.
• The tour departs early from South Beach at 6:30 AM, with a full day of activities and travel.
• Mixed reviews highlight excellent guides and stunning views, but some issues with bus comfort and communication.

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Pickup and Departure from South Beach

The tour begins at the bus stop on Collins Avenue, directly in front of the Claremont Hotel in South Beach. Travelers should arrive by 6:30 AM to check in and board the vehicle. The transportation is air-conditioned, and the long drive to Key West is part of the experience, giving travelers a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery en route. This early start allows the rest of the day to be spent exploring and enjoying the water-based activities.

Scenic Drive to Key West by Bus

Once onboard, travelers sit back and enjoy the air-conditioned bus ride to Key West. The journey includes stops in Key West where the group boards the boat. While the bus ride is straightforward, some reviews mention the air conditioning can be too cold and the lack of WiFi might be a downside for some. The duration of the drive supports a leisurely transition from city to island life.

Boarding the Key West Boat and Coastal Views

Upon arrival in Key West, the boat is ready for the main part of the tour. As the boat sets off from the shore, travelers are treated to beautiful coastal views along the Florida Keys. The boat provides a fun, lively atmosphere with music and the open bar if selected, making the cruise a highlight for many. The vessel offers safety equipment and marina fees are included if the snorkeling option is chosen.

Snorkeling in the Largest Coral Ecosystem

The core activity of this tour is snorkeling at the largest coral ecosystem in the mainland US. Travelers swim through crystal-clear waters to see an array of marine life including parrotfish, damselfish, Barracudas, loggerhead sea turtles, and yellowtail snapper. The landscape of coral reefs is described as breathtaking and colorful, offering a memorable underwater experience. The snorkeling is optional and requires the additional fee for the equipment and fees.

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Marine Life and Reef Ecosystem Highlights

The coral reefs teem with vibrant fish and marine creatures, making it an appealing experience for nature lovers and aquarium enthusiasts. The guides are praised for being knowledgeable and helpful, ensuring participants feel comfortable and informed while exploring the underwater landscape. Finding sea turtles, Barracudas, and other marine species can be a highlight of this trip.

Drinks, Music, and Relaxation on the Boat

A key feature of this tour is the open bar, which is available if this option is selected. Travelers can enjoy refreshing drinks as they cruise toward the snorkeling site, complemented by music that adds to the festive atmosphere. The relaxed vibe makes the boat ride itself a enjoyable part of the experience, especially for those who appreciate socializing and sunny views.

Returning to Miami Beach

After the snorkeling adventure, the boat heads back toward Miami. The return journey allows participants to unwind and take in the coastal scenery once more. The full-day trip wraps up with the bus transfer back to the original meeting point in South Beach, usually late in the evening. The long day means travelers should be prepared for a full schedule and a late return.

What the Reviews Reveal

While the majority of reviews highlight fantastic guides like Tamara, who is described as genuinely nice and informative, there are some criticisms to consider. Some mention discomfort on the bus, especially with air conditioning being too cold, and frustrations with staff communication—particularly for non-English speakers. On the positive side, stunning scenery, good value, and helpful guides stand out. Many express a desire to return, citing the snorkeling and coastal views as particularly worthwhile.

Accessibility and Group Size

The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers small group options, making it suitable for travelers with specific needs or those who prefer a more intimate experience. The language options include English and Spanish, accommodating a broader range of participants.

Final Thoughts on the Miami to Key West Experience

This tour offers an affordable, full-day escape from Miami Beach with a mix of scenic cruises and marine exploration. It excels in viewing marine life, especially sea turtles and Barracudas, and the open bar adds a lively touch. The long drive and mixed reviews about comfort suggest it’s best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a long day and are willing to overlook some logistical flaws.

Overall, this $18 trip provides a cost-effective way to experience Key West’s coastline and underwater world with convenient transportation and friendly guides. It’s a good fit for those seeking marine activities, relaxing boat rides, and scenic views—as long as expectations are aligned with some of the logistical challenges noted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is snorkeling included in the tour?
Snorkeling is optional and requires an additional fee. If selected, it includes snorkeling equipment and fees.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour meets at the bus stop on Collins Avenue in front of the Claremont Hotel in South Beach.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts approximately 18 hours, starting early at 6:30 AM and returning late in the evening.

Is the transportation comfortable?
The air-conditioned bus provides a comfortable ride, but some reviews mention the air conditioning can be too cold and WiFi is not available.

What marine animals might I see while snorkeling?
Common sightings include parrotfish, damselfish, Barracudas, loggerhead sea turtles, and yellowtail snapper.

Can the tour accommodate non-English speakers?
Yes, the guide speaks English and Spanish, and the tour is wheelchair accessible with small group options.

This tour from Big Dave Tours offers a practical and budget-friendly way to explore Key West via scenic boat cruise and marine exploration. While it may have some logistical limitations, it remains a solid option for those eager to enjoy coastal views and underwater wildlife without breaking the bank.

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