Key West Boat Adventures with Laid Back Key West
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for participants with basic mobility; minimal physical exertion required beyond swimming or light snorkeling.
Overview
Set sail with Laid Back Key West for private boat tours that reveal Florida’s southernmost marine treasures—from sandbars and snorkeling spots to historic Dry Tortugas. Comfortable, customized, and guided by local captains, these trips offer something for families, anglers, and adventurers alike.
Details
Off the southern tip of Florida, Key West offers a coastal playground rich with vibrant reefs, historic landmarks, and unspoiled marine habitats. Laid Back Key West specializes in private boat tours that showcase the best of this subtropical maritime environment. Anchored by knowledgeable captains like Eric, these customizable adventures cater to families, anglers, and anyone craving direct access to the turquoise waters and hidden gems around the island.
Among their standout offerings is the private sandbar tour—a chance to anchor on a shifting natural platform surrounded by crystalline shallows. Guests can snorkel near shipwrecks teeming with marine life or unwind on beanbag seats while the captain spins an eclectic playlist. The experience balances laid-back comfort with opportunities to observe dolphins, sharks, or sea turtles in the wild.
For history enthusiasts and day-trippers, the Dry Tortugas trip transports you 70 miles west to a remote cluster of islands featuring Fort Jefferson and some of the clearest snorkeling waters in Florida. This federally protected park is accessible only by boat or seaplane, making the journey itself an immersive part of the adventure.
Seasonal highlights include Key West's Lobster Mini Season and a festive July 4th Fireworks Sunset Cruise, both offering unique ways to celebrate the island’s distinct vibe on and off the water. The crew's in-depth local knowledge and commitment to small-group, customized trips make every outing personalized and memorable.
Whether you’re after a tranquil day on the water, an active fishing excursion, or a scenic sunset cruise, Laid Back Key West delivers an authentic maritime experience beyond the typical tourist route. Their patient and personable captains ensure those new to the area—or novices on a boat—can comfortably connect with the vibrant ecosystem and culture surrounding Key West’s coral reefs and coastal flats.
Adventure Tips
Book tours early
Secure your preferred date in advance, especially during peak season or special events like Lobster Mini Season.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and local coral reefs by choosing environmentally friendly sunscreen products.
Wear water shoes for sandbar stops
Sandbars may have sharp shells and coral fragments, so sturdy shoes make walking safer and more comfortable.
Hydrate and bring snacks
Although some tours provide lunch, it’s wise to carry water and light snacks, especially on longer trips like Dry Tortugas.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Shipwreck snorkeling sites near the sandbars
- Secluded mangrove inlets spotted during custom tours
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins
- Green sea turtles
History
The Dry Tortugas feature Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century coastal fortress still largely intact and accessible only by boat or plane.
Conservation
Laid Back Key West emphasizes reef-safe practices and follows guidelines to minimize disturbance to marine ecosystems during their tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- From the sandbar at low tide
- aboard the boat near shipwreck snorkeling spots
- Dry Tortugas Fort Jefferson ramparts
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin without damaging fragile marine ecosystems.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during long hours on the boat.
Water shoes
Protect your feet on rocky or shell-strewn sandbars and shallow reefs.
Lightweight windbreaker
Offers warmth during cooler early mornings or evening cruises.
winter specific