Key West: Eco Safari Sandbar Tour With Snorkeling

The Key West Eco Safari Sandbar Tour promises an exhilarating day on the water. Guests pilot their own small speedboats through the stunning Florida Keys, exploring mangroves and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. With opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, this guided experience ensures a memorable adventure. Whether you’re seeking thrills or relaxation, the Mud Key sandbar offers both – a chance to learn about the natural beauty of this unique destination.

This experience made our article of 16 Top Snorkeling Experiences In Key West (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• This 2.5-hour tour in the Florida Keys offers a small-group eco-safari experience with activities like driving a speedboat, exploring mangroves, and snorkeling.
• The tour includes guided wildlife spotting, snorkeling gear, food, drinks, and gratuities for a starting price of $160.20 for up to 2 participants.
• Guests can explore the unique mangrove ecosystem, spotting birds, manatees, and other marine life, before relaxing on the Mud Key sandbar.
• A valid driver’s license is required to operate the personal speedboat, and the Florida Boater and Water Safety Test is needed for certain participants.
• The tour is highly rated at 4.6/5 from 23 reviews and offers flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Key West: Eco Safari Sandbar Tour with Snorkeling is a 2.5-hour experience that allows participants to explore the scenic waterways of the Florida Keys.

This small group tour, limited to 2 participants, is conducted in English and has earned a 4.6/5 rating based on 23 reviews.

Activities include driving your own small speedboat, exploring mangroves, snorkeling, and relaxing on the Mud Key sandbar.

Participants may spot wildlife such as ospreys, manatees, sharks, and pelicans during the tour.

Pricing and Booking

The Key West: Eco Safari Sandbar Tour with Snorkeling is priced from $178.00, now $160.20 per group up to 2 participants.

The Key West: Eco Safari Sandbar Tour with Snorkeling is now priced at $160.20 per group up to 2 participants, down from $178.00.

Travelers can enjoy:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

2. Flexible booking with the option to reserve now and pay later.

3. No upfront payment required to secure the tour.

Plus, the tour includes a guided experience, snorkeling gear, food, drinks, and gratuities.

With a 4.6/5 rating based on 23 reviews, this eco-adventure is a must-do activity for those visiting Key West.

Experience Details

Situated at Cow Key Marina, 5001 5th Avenue on Stock Island, the Key West: Eco Safari Sandbar Tour with Snorkeling offers an immersive experience for participants.

During the 2.5-hour adventure, guests drive their own small speedboat and explore the surrounding mangroves. The tour includes the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, such as ospreys, manatees, sharks, and pelicans.

After the boat ride, guests can relax on the Mud Key sandbar and enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters. The tour includes all necessary equipment, including snorkeling gear, as well as food and drinks.

Explore the Mangroves

After exploring the waterways around Cow Key Marina, guests steer their boats into the lush mangrove forests that line the coast.

The tour guides provide valuable insights, pointing out the unique ecosystems thriving within these tangled roots.

Guests can:

1. Spot birds nesting in the branches, like the iconic osprey.

2. Look for signs of manatees and other marine life in the shallow channels.

3. Photograph the dramatic, twisted trunks and branches that create a natural, labyrinthine environment.

The mangrove exploration offers a chance to take in Key West’s vibrant natural world.

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Snorkeling Adventure

Once the mangrove exploration is complete, guests head out to the designated snorkeling spot near Mud Key.

They don the provided snorkeling gear and jump into the crystal-clear waters, eager to discover the vibrant underwater world. Beneath the surface, a kaleidoscope of marine life comes into view – schools of tropical fish, swaying coral, and the occasional curious shark or ray.

The tranquil environment allows guests to fully enjoy the experience, exploring the seabed and marveling at the diverse ecosystem.

After the snorkel, guests can relax on the serene sandbar, soaking up the sun and taking in the natural beauty.

Mud Key Sandbar Relaxation

Having explored the mangroves and witnessed the marine life up close, guests then make their way to the tranquil Mud Key sandbar.

On the sandbar, they can:

1. Relax on the soft sand and soak up the sun.

2. Swim and wade in the shallow, crystal-clear waters.

3. Enjoy the provided food and drinks while taking in the breathtaking views.

This peaceful interlude offers a chance to unwind and recharge before heading back.

The Mud Key sandbar experience completes the Eco Safari tour, leaving guests with a newfound appreciation for the natural wonders of Key West.

Wildlife Sightings

As guests depart the serene Mud Key sandbar, they keep their eyes peeled for the diverse array of wildlife that call the mangrove-lined waterways home.

Guests depart the serene Mud Key sandbar, keeping their eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife in the mangrove-lined waterways.

Keen-eyed participants may spot the graceful osprey soaring overhead, hunting for fish. With luck, they might even catch a glimpse of the elusive manatee, gently gliding through the clear waters.

Occasionally, the tour guide points out a curious shark patrolling the shallows. Pelicans, a quintessential sight in the Florida Keys, dive-bomb the surface, showcasing their impressive hunting skills.

This eco-safari offers a unique opportunity to observe the delicate balance of nature in action.

Important Information

To participate in this eco-safari tour, guests must bring a valid driver’s license. This requirement ensures guests can legally operate the personal speedboat during the tour.

Plus, guests should bring a towel to use after snorkeling. Safety is a top priority, so participants born on or after January 1, 1988 must have completed the Florida Boater and Water Safety Test prior to the tour. This test covers important boating regulations and responsible water practices, enabling guests to navigate the waterways safely.

1. Bring a valid driver’s license

2. Pack a towel

3. Complete the Florida Boater and Water Safety Test (if applicable)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Non-Swimmers?

The tour may be suitable for non-swimmers, as it includes snorkeling. However, participants are required to take a boating safety test, suggesting some level of water competency is needed. Consulting the tour provider is recommended to determine if it’s appropriate for non-swimmers.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour includes food and drinks, but bringing additional personal items is allowed. It’s a good idea to pack any desired refreshments or snacks for the excursion.

Are Life Jackets Provided During the Boat Ride?

Yes, life jackets are provided during the boat ride. The tour operator ensures the safety of participants by providing the necessary safety equipment, including life jackets, for the duration of the excursion.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Last-Minute Changes?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexibility in last-minute changes. Participants can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Requirement for Participants?

There is a safety requirement that participants born on or after January 1, 1988 must take the Florida Boater and Water Safety Test. However, there appears to be no stated age limit or minimum requirement for participation in this tour.

The Sum Up

The Key West Eco Safari Sandbar Tour offers an unforgettable adventure, combining thrilling activities like exploring mangroves and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. With the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife and relax on the Mud Key sandbar, this guided experience ensures a day filled with natural beauty and excitement. It’s an ideal way to take in the stunning Florida Keys waterways.

You can check availability for your dates here: