Shallow Water Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching in Key West

Key West , United States

Shallow Water Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching in Key West

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(461 reviews)

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About this experience

All while avoiding the crowded big boats, spend part of your Florida vacation day out on the tropical waters of Key West on Catamaran Echo - making vacation memories since 1991.
Enjoy a premium shallow snorkeling and dolphin-watching sailing excursion. Cruise on a roomy catamaran that books only to half their passenger limit for quality control.
Be ready to spot wild dolphins being WILD - hunting, playing, teaching their babies how to hunt, feed and socialize with their dolphin friends. Then to a shallow water snorkel stop at coral reefs, wrecks or the wildlife refuge - wherever the best conditions are from Mother Nature that day. The spacious catamaran offers plenty of room to relax in comfortable seats, and on a soft trampoline sundeck forward. Feel the sea breeze in your hair, and enjoy light snacks and premium drinks, all while having fun on the sparkling waters of Key West.

Available options

Start Time

What's included

Soft refreshments and a variety of snacks and fresh tropical fruit tray

Snorkel equipment and snorkeling instruction

Wild dolphin, sailing and snorkeling tour on the Echo

Local taxes

Drinks including premium beers and wines

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

140 reviews

5★

105

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

321 reviews

5★

275

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Guests should bring a towel, sunscreen (no oil), hat, camera, sunglasses, dry bag for personal belongings, and a jacket in fall, winter, spring.

Exclusive seating limited to about 14 passengers on this sailing catamaran, about half full! NOT for travelers under 5 years old.

Cancellations due to weather: You will have a chance to reschedule or be issued a full refund in the event that the Captain decides to cancel your tour due to weather.

Passenger waivers must be completed online in advance to board. If a waiver is NOT completed for any passenger, boarding is NOT permitted and no refund is available. A LINK for online Waivers, 1 for each person, is emailed along with your reservation confirmation email.

NO boarding allowed or refunds available for passengers who show up intoxicated or with children under 5 years old, or who cause a disturbance.

2 week cancelation policy from vender

Meeting point

Drop off at 201 William St. - located Dock D-30. At the Water, go up the steps, proceed to the Waterfront Brewery, Boat House at Turtle Kraals area. See Catamaran Echo dock sign across the water. Check-in at the boat 15 minutes before departure. Email info@dolphinecho.com for complete information.

Important notes

• Important - Please contact the Catamaran Echo office at info@dolphinecho.com or 305-292-5044 before the trip to reconfirm your attendance and conditions, and receive custom directions / information.
• On your trip bring: Sunscreen pre-applied, sunglasses (polarized best), hat, camera and a jacket in fall, winter, spring. Passengers will be asked to safely leave their shoes behind for a barefoot cruise, but if you need shoes onboard for health reasons please make them clean, soft soles.

About Key West

Key West is a vibrant island city known for its tropical climate, rich history, and laid-back atmosphere. As the southernmost city in the continental U.S., it offers a unique blend of Caribbean and American cultures, stunning beaches, and a thriving arts scene.

Top Attractions

Duval Street

The heart of Key West's nightlife and shopping, Duval Street stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, offering a mix of bars, restaurants, shops, and galleries.

Entertainment Half day to full day Free to explore, costs vary for attractions and dining

Dry Tortugas National Park

A remote and pristine national park accessible only by boat or seaplane, featuring Fort Jefferson and stunning coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.

Nature Full day trip Ferry: $185-$220, Seaplane: $300-$350, Park entry: $15 per person

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

A lush tropical garden filled with free-flying butterflies, birds, and other wildlife, offering a serene and educational experience.

Nature 1-2 hours $22 for adults, $12 for children (6-17)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Key Lime Pie

A tangy and sweet pie made with key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk, topped with whipped cream or meringue.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, can be made gluten-free

Conch Fritters

Deep-fried fritters made with conch meat, vegetables, and spices, served with a dipping sauce.

Appetizer Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free

Grouper Sandwich

A sandwich featuring fresh local grouper, often blackened or fried, served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and tangy sauce.

Lunch Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Diving Kayaking Paddleboarding Fishing Beach lounging Spa treatments Sunset cruises

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the most popular time to visit Key West, with pleasant weather and lower humidity. It's ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

21-28°C 70-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

U.S. Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) (UTC-5:00, UTC-4:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Key West is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in tourist areas. Exercise caution and common sense to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable establishments
• Be cautious when using public transportation or taxis, and always use licensed services

Getting there

By air

Key West International Airport • 4 miles from downtown

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient, with multiple routes serving popular destinations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town New Town

Day trips

Dry Tortugas National Park

70 miles by ferry or 30 minutes by seaplane • Full day

A remote and pristine national park featuring Fort Jefferson and stunning coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.

Big Pine Key

30 miles north of Key West • Half day to full day

A scenic island known for its pine rocklands, wildlife, and the famous Key deer.

Looe Key Reef

5 miles west of Big Pine Key • Half day to full day

A popular snorkeling and diving spot featuring a vibrant coral reef and diverse marine life.

Festivals

Fantasy Fest • Late October Key West Food and Wine Festival • Early November Key West Highlight Film Festival • Early November

Pro tips

Visit Mallory Square for the famous sunset celebrations, which feature street performers, local vendors, and stunning views of the sunset.
Explore the island by bike or scooter, as it's a great way to get around and see the sights.
Try key lime pie, a local specialty made with fresh key limes and sweetened condensed milk.
Visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, a lush tropical garden filled with free-flying butterflies, birds, and other wildlife.
Take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, a remote and pristine island featuring Fort Jefferson and stunning coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.