This Key West boat-driving shore excursion takes you through the Florida Marine Sanctuary. Snorkel, swim, and explore this mangrove island, known for its crystal clear waters and abundant wildlife.
For this excursion, you will meet the staff of Sunset Watersports just a short 15-20 min taxi ride away from your cruise ship terminal, where they will be waiting to check you in. The staff and guides will provide some basic information on boating and then you'll head out to Florida's backcountry waters on a self-drive mini speedboat.
Please note that Florida Law requires everyone born after Jan 1, 1988, to take a boater safety test to drive a boat. Each driver must present a passed boaters safety test prior to departure, click here to start the test.
You will follow your expert shore excursion guide over 25 miles through scenic mangroves to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. This marine sanctuary is one of 14 protected areas that make up the National Marine Sanctuary System. It protects an impressive 2,900 square nautical miles of water surrounding the Florida Keys.
The sanctuary offers a range of habitats, providing homes to a wide variety of animals. The approximately 1,700 mangrove-fringed islands of the Keys provide essential habitats for different fish species, and also above-water nesting grounds for beautiful, colorful bird populations. The seagrass meadows support a wide variety of marine life. The sanctuary also includes the world's third-largest barrier reef, which provides homes to fish and countless other marine life.
Enjoy snorkeling and exploring some of the most beautiful waters, beaches, and islands in the rarely navigated backcountry of the Florida Keys. This is one of Key West's best-kept secrets and you definitely won't want to miss out!
The mini speed boats are custom 2-person pistol boats. A third (very small) person can be added to the boat if they are under 40 lbs.
At the end of your Key West Speedboat Excursion, the boat will take you back to the original meeting location where you will catch a taxi back to your Key West cruise ship pier.
