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

Planning a day trip from Miami to Key West that combines the thrill of snorkeling, scenic cruising, and a lively open bar sounds enticing, but how well does this tour deliver? While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, a thorough look at what it offers sheds light on its strengths and some considerations.

This tour stands out because of its affordable price point, the chance to explore the largest coral reef in the mainland US, and the relaxing vibe of cruising with drinks and music. We love that it provides a smooth transfer from Miami, eliminating the hassle of planning your own transportation, and the opportunity to see the coastlines and marine life in one day.

However, some reviews point to potential drawbacks, like indifference from boat staff towards non-English speakers and long bus rides with limited comforts. This tour is best suited for those seeking a full-day adventure with scenic views and snorkeling, especially if they enjoy a lively onboard atmosphere and value convenience.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines transport, scenery, snorkeling, and drinks in a single day.
• Affordable Price: At $18 per person, it’s quite budget-friendly for a full-day trip.
• Hassle-Free: Round-trip transportation from Miami makes logistics simpler.
• Marine Encounters: Chance to see Barracudas, sea turtles, and tropical fishes.
• Scenic Cruising: Enjoy stunning coastal views and sunshine en route to Key West.
• Mixed Reviews: Highlights include friendly guides but some criticisms regarding staff communication and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour kicks off early in the morning at 1700 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, with a pick-up at 6:30 AM. The journey by bus or coach takes about 4 hours to reach the vibrant island of Key West. The long drive might seem daunting, but it’s designed to maximize your time on the island, and the scenic views along the way help pass the time.

Once in Key West, you’ll have a short one-hour free period—enough to snap a few photos or grab a quick coffee before heading to the boat. The boat itself, operated by Big Dave Tours, features an open bar and music, setting a relaxed, party-like atmosphere.

The main highlight is getting to the best snorkeling spot in the coral reef system. You’re provided with safety equipment and marina fees—meaning you can focus on the fun without worrying about added costs. As you glide through the water, you’ll be on the lookout for marine life such as parrotfish, damselfish, Barracudas, loggerhead sea turtles, and yellowtail snapper.

After snorkeling, the boat cruise continues with scenic coastal views, giving you plenty of opportunities to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy a refreshing drink from the open bar. The return journey mirrors the initial trip, with another 4-hour bus ride back to Miami, ending at the same spot by Collins Avenue.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Scenic Coastal Views and Marine Life: The highlight here is the chance to swim among coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and possibly spot larger marine creatures like turtles and Barracudas. Reviewers mention the breathtaking underwater landscapes and the satisfaction of seeing vibrant fish in their natural habitat.

Convenience and Cost: For just $18, you get transportation, snorkeling, and a lively onboard atmosphere, making it a solid value for a full day of adventure. The inclusion of marina fees and safety equipment further enhances the value, as these are often additional costs elsewhere.

Lively Atmosphere: The open bar and music help set a fun, party vibe on the boat. If you’re looking to unwind with drinks and good tunes while cruising along the coast, this tour delivers in spades.

Guides and Staff: Positive feedback about the friendly guides and crew suggest that the tour operators are usually accommodating and knowledgeable, although some reviews highlight issues like staff indifference or communication barriers, especially for non-English speakers.

The Not-So-Perfect Aspects

Long Transit Time: The 4-hour bus rides each way are a significant chunk of your day, which might be tiring, especially for those expecting a shorter trip. Some travelers mention the bus’s air conditioning being too cold and the lack of Wi-Fi, which could make the journey less comfortable.

Limited Free Time in Key West: With only about an hour to explore the town, some might feel rushed and prefer more time to wander or enjoy local eateries. Also, the stop in Key West is quite brief considering the long travel hours.

Boat Experience: While some rave about the boat’s lively environment, reviews also highlight that staff’s indifference to non-English speakers can dampen the experience. One reviewer mentioned feeling ignored during safety briefings, which is a crucial point for safety and overall enjoyment.

Food and Additional Costs: The tour does not include food, so travelers should budget for meals if they get hungry. Also, snorkeling is optional, and fees may apply if not included in the selected package.

Describing the Experience

Imagine waking early in Miami Beach, boarding a coach with air conditioning that some find a bit too cold, and setting off on a scenic drive through Florida’s coastal landscape. The anticipation builds as the water gets closer, and finally, you arrive in the bustling streets of Key West, famous for its vibrant colors and laid-back vibe.

Climbing aboard the boat, you’re greeted with music and the open bar—a perfect way to kick off your day at sea. As the boat departs, you’ll marvel at the coastline and the shimmering water, a scene that invites relaxation and excitement in equal measure.

The snorkeling spot is typically the highlight, with clear waters revealing a bustling reef filled with multicolored coral and tropical fish. You might swim alongside parrotfish, damselfish, and perhaps catch a glimpse of a sea turtle or a Barracuda. The experience can be invigorating and fun, especially for those new to snorkeling or marine life.

Back on board, the cruise continues with a scenic ride along the coast, giving you time to soak up the sun and sip your drink. The lively atmosphere, with music and chatter, makes it feel like a floating party. The return trip offers more views of the coast, but some travelers mention the long bus ride back feels lengthy, especially if the weather isn’t ideal.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a full-day adventure without breaking the bank. It’s ideal if you enjoy social environments with music and drinks, and don’t mind long transit times.

Snorkelers will appreciate the opportunity to explore the coral reefs, especially since equipment and fees are included, adding to the value. Those who prefer guided, organized trips with logistical convenience will find this a practical choice.

However, if you prefer more free time in Key West or a more relaxed pace, this might feel a tad rushed. Also, travelers sensitive to language barriers or seeking a more curated, calm experience should weigh these factors.

Final Thoughts

The Miami to Key West boat tour with snorkeling and open bar offers a fun, affordable, and scenic way to experience one of Florida’s most iconic destinations. You’ll love the chance to see vibrant marine life, cruise along stunning coastlines, and enjoy a lively onboard vibe.

While the long bus rides and the possibility of inconsistent staff interactions are points to consider, many travelers find the overall experience a good value for a full day of adventure. It’s best for those who want a straightforward, upbeat trip with plenty of opportunities to relax and socialize.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to explore Key West, with snorkeling, scenic views, and a party atmosphere, this tour could be your perfect fit. Just remember to bring your patience for the long journey and maybe some extra snacks for the ride!

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is transportation from Miami included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Miami Beach to Key West is included, starting from 1700 Collins Ave.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 18 hours, including the bus rides and time in Key West.

Can I snorkel without paying extra?
Yes, snorkeling and the marina fees are included if you select the option with snorkeling. Additional charges may apply if you opt out of these.

Is there a time limit in Key West?
Yes, you’ll have around one hour of free time in Key West before heading to the boat, and another hour for sightseeing or relaxing.

Are drinks included?
Yes, if you select the open bar option, you can enjoy drinks during the cruise.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible.

Will I understand the safety instructions?
Some reviews indicate that staff can be quick to speak and may not always cater well to non-English speakers, so make sure to communicate your needs.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera for capturing underwater moments.

Is food provided?
No, food is not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the free time in Key West.

This tour offers a lively, cost-effective way to experience Key West’s beauty and marine life, perfect for travelers seeking adventure, social fun, and a taste of the Florida Keys.

You can check availability for your dates here: