Frequently Asked Questions
-
Yes! We will go 4-6 miles into the Atlantic Ocean off the coast. The ocean will have many different variables, such as waves and currents. If you can not comfortably swim in a pool, the sea is not the best place to try and learn.
Guests must be five or older and know how to swim and snorkel; if not, they can stay on the boat with an adult.
-
Your tour starts at the time of departure. While we can offer some flexibility, we encourage you to be at the marina 30 minutes early for snorkeling and 15 minutes for eco and sunset tours. Having the boat waiver completed will also save time.
-
If you wish to see the Christ of the Abyss statue, will do our best to see the underwater statue. Several factors come into play, such as weather conditions, wind and waves, water visibility, water currents, jellyfish, and overcrowding. So we can never guarantee that we will be able to see the statue, but if we need to go to another location, we will see plenty of marine life and the coral reef. Please let your captain know if this is a priority for you so we can plan.
-
There is always the possibility of seeing sharks, rays, eels, barracudas and other larger wildlife because we are adventuring into their natural environment. However, there is nothing to worry about! No animals in the ocean view humans as a food source. Sharks are a sign of a healthy ecosystem and are truly spectacular.
-
There is always the possibility of getting seasick, especially if prone to motion sickness. If you think you might get seasick, over-the-counter motion sickness medications can be purchased at any pharmacy. Taking the medication before bed and again an hour before your tour is best.
-
You will need to bring sunglasses and towels, and wearing flip-flops or sandals is preferred; shoes and socks will get wet. We provide free coral-safe sunscreen on board. We will also have plenty of drinking water, sports drinks, soft drinks, and chips for snacks. However, feel free to bring any additional beverages or snacks on board. We have a large cooler filled with ice for your personal drinks. We ask that you not bring glass, Styrofoam, or plastic bags on the boat. You may bring alcohol, but once you pop the top, you will not be able to enter the water.
-
Safety is our #1 priority, and we will never put any of our customers in a dangerous situation. Unfortunately, many of our trips can be dictated by the weather. If there are thunderstorms, rough seas, or high winds, we cannot snorkel on the reefs safely. However, we can do Eco-tours & mangrove snorkel trips when the ocean conditions are too rough. We will always strive to make your experience with Snorkel the Keys as fun and memorable as possible.
-
Yes. Please let me know 24 hours in advance or the day before your trip if you need to cancel or change your reservation. We will always do our best to accommodate you. However, we cannot resell the tour if you don’t show up for your reservation. Therefore, there will be a complete trip charge for no-shows or cancellations within our 24-hour cancellation period. (Certain emergencies would prompt a full refund f under 24 hours)
You will receive a full refund if we cancel due to weather, rough seas, poor visibility, or rain. -
Unfortunately, the United States Coast Guard limits the amount to 6 paying customers, regardless of age.
-
Yes, or at least have one person aboard who can interpret for the guests. All guests will need to know the safety procedures for the boat and understand the briefing for snorkeling and the reef.
-
Smoking or vaping is not allowed on the boat. If any illegal contraband is brought on the boat, your tour will be immediately terminated, and no refund will be given.
-
Guests are not permitted to drink alcoholic beverages before snorkeling. Any guest who arrives intoxicated or has been drinking will not be allowed to snorkel, and the captain can cancel the trip without a refund. Adult beverages can be consumed after snorkeling or by guests staying on the boat.
-
You can discuss with the captain if he desires to be an in-water guide for you. It is only possible if your entire group is snorkeling (no one remaining on the boat).
-
Yes, pool noodles are available for snorkeling or lounging in the water by the boat. They are not a replacement for safety devices and should not be your sole flotation source if you are new to snorkeling or not a strong swimmer.
-
Yes! We can customize trips for advanced snorkelers to see a variety of deeper reefs, local shipwrecks and more challenging locations we do not normally take snorkelers to.
-
Yes, our services, like most of the hospitality and tour services in the Keys, are designed around gratuities for staff. We encourage you to tip your captain if you received great service. You can tip your captain with cash, Venmo and Zelle.
-
If you have a larger group, you may be able to book multiple boats or refer you to a trusted partner.

