Half-Day Snorkel Trip to Key Largo Reefs — Pennekamp & Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable floating and basic swimming ability recommended for snorkeling.
Overview
Head offshore from Key Largo for a 3.5‑hour snorkel aboard a small charter that visits two reef sites in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Expect turtles, eagle rays and coral gardens — plus a backup mangrove snorkel if conditions turn.
Half-Day Snorkel Trip to Key Largo Reefs — Pennekamp & Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary
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The diesel hum of the skiff slows as the island silhouette of Key Largo recedes and the water changes color — from steel gray to a clean, luminous blue. On a half-day snorkel trip out of the Reefhouse Resort & Marina, the captain ties off and the ocean exhales: the current eases, the reef slopes beckon, and the crew points toward two diveable patches of coral where green sea turtles and spotted eagle rays patrol like slow-moving kings.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive early for check-in
AM check-in is 8:30 a.m. (departure ~9:00) and PM check-in 1:00 p.m. (departure ~1:30); arriving 15 minutes early avoids last-minute rushes and ensures your gear is ready.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Apply a mineral-based sunscreen before boarding and reapply as instructed — the operator encourages reusable bottles and supplies refillable water.
Bring a reusable water bottle
Boats carry water coolers and refillable cups; a refillable bottle keeps you hydrated and reduces plastic waste in the sanctuary.
Minors need signed waivers
All minors must have a parent or legal guardian sign the liability waiver in advance or at check-in; friends and relatives cannot sign on their behalf.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtles
- Spotted eagle rays
History
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was established in the 1960s as the nation’s first underwater park to protect the coral ecosystems of the Keys.
Conservation
These reefs face warming and disease pressures; operators encourage reef‑safe sunscreen, no‑touch policies and limiting single‑use plastics to reduce impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Key Largo
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the reef — mineral formulas are preferred by operators.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Keep hydrated; boats provide refill stations to reduce single‑use plastic.
Lightweight rashguard
Provides sun protection and a thin layer for cooler breezes on the boat.
summer specific
Personal mask and snorkel
Provided equipment is fine, but a well-fitting mask improves visibility and comfort.