Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco Tour Sail Snorkel and Kayak

Key West , United States

Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco Tour Sail Snorkel and Kayak

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(86 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Departing from Key West’s Historic Seaport, the Appledore Star’s sails are raised for an authentic sail experience on the way to Key West’s backcountry.

Your day is spent exploring Key West’s uninhabited mangrove islands in the Key West National Wildlife Refuge. Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays and many other wildlife that call the Refuge home. Your captain knows where dolphins are frequently seen and will let you know if he spots any.

Upon reaching the mangrove islands, the schooner anchors and your exploration begins. Your day is divided between guided kayaking tours and guided snorkeling tours. The warm, shallow water is calm, sheltered by the uninhabited mangroves, making kayaking a breeze.

After your tours, come back aboard and wash off with our fresh water rinse, and relax on deck. Choose from plenty of complimentary cold drinks – frosty cold beer, wine, homemade sangria, chilled sodas and filtered water. This is the best of laid-back island living.

Available options

Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco Tour Sail Snorkel and Kayak

What's included

Unlimited beer and wine, for guests >21 years of age

Filtered Water

Soda/Pop

Snacks

Premium snorkeling equipment

Professional Guide

Gourmet lunch made by our own in-house catering team

Detailed itinerary

The Key West National Wildlife Refuge, located at the southernmost tip of the United States in the Florida Keys, is a sanctuary of natural beauty and biodiversity. Spanning over 200,000 acres, this refuge comprises a mosaic of habitats including mangrove islands, seagrass beds, and coral reefs, making it a vital haven for a diverse array of wildlife.

Stop 2 Pass by

The Key West Historic Seaport is a vibrant hub of maritime history, culture, and activity nestled in the heart of Old Town Key West. Steeped in tradition and charm, this historic seaport offers a captivating glimpse into the island's seafaring past while providing a lively atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

What's not included

Gratuity

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

81 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Vegetarian option is available. Must notify operator 72 hours prior ro departure.

Please advise of any specific dietary requirements 72 hours prior to departure.

Total trip time is 5 hours; time at each location is dependant on weather, refuge conditions and Captain's discretion.

To re-board the schooner after snorkeling and kayaking, you are required to climb aboard a platform secured to the boat just below the waterline, from there you climb a ladder back aboard the schooner.

Meeting point

Check-in is located at the far end of William Street, just to the right of the Western Union sign. From Elizabeth Street, keep the water on your left and follow Lazy Way Lane past the shops. The Marker Resort on your right, and the Schooner Wharf Bar on your left. The booth will be on your left.

Important notes

Please present your ticket at the departure point.

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.