Experience the excitement of Florida's Lobster Mini Season in Key West! Catch lobsters early in the season and enjoy an exclusive boat tour that combines adventure and local insight.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable spending several hours on a boat and able to swim or snorkel in ocean conditions.
Wildlife
History
Key West has a rich maritime history tied to fishing, with lobster harvesting playing a vital role in local culture for generations.
Conservation
Strict regulations during Mini Season protect lobster populations and support sustainable fishing practices in the Florida Keys.
Laid Back Key West
Experience the excitement of Florida's Lobster Mini Season in Key West! Catch lobsters early in the season and enjoy an exclusive boat tour that combines adventure and local insight.
Laid Back Key West operates out of Key West, Florida, offering private boat experiences focused on personalized, small-group outings. The company’s trip roster includes a three-hour Fireworks on America's Birthday Sunset Cruise held on July 4th, a customizable four-hour Key West Fishing excursion, a Lobster Mini Season trip on the last Wednesday and Thursday of July, a private sandbar tour for you and up to five friends with cooler space for food and drinks, and a 10-hour Dry Tortugas adventure visiting historic Fort Jefferson with lunch and options to snorkel or fish.
Captain Eric leads the private sandbar tour and is described as a seasoned local who provides guided, personalized time on the water. Trips are tailored to participant preferences where noted: fishing excursions are customizable to preferred styles, and the Dry Tortugas outing offers optional snorkeling or fishing. The Lobster Mini Season trip takes place before commercial season opens and is known for plentiful local lobster populations during that short annual window. Laid Back Key West emphasizes small private groups and bespoke itineraries by offering singular private bookings such as sandbar outings and full-day Dry Tortugas trips accessible only by private boat. The July 4th sunset cruise culminates in a fireworks display after dusk, creating a family-friendly evening on the water. All trip summaries and schedules are available through the operator for booking details and specific timing.
Interested guests should consult Laid Back Key West for current availability, exact pricing, gear requirements, and safety information. Seasonal dates may vary.
Location
Key West, FL
Operating from Key West harbor
Tours Offered
5 Trips
Five private charter experiences
Private Groups
Up to 6
You plus up to five friends
Local Captain
Captain Eric
Seasoned Key West local
Check availability for holiday cruises and seasonal Lobster Mini Season dates — secure a private sandbar, fishing, or Dry Tortugas excursion from Key West now.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and the delicate marine environment by using reef-safe sunscreen throughout the trip.
Stay Hydrated
Florida’s summer heat can be intense; bring plenty of water to stay refreshed onboard the boat.
Wear Water Shoes
Water shoes help protect your feet from sharp coral and rocky surfaces when diving or wading.
Follow Local Regulations
Abide by size limits and catch quotas to support sustainable lobster harvesting and legal compliance.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin while preserving the marine environment.
summer
Snorkeling Gear
Enables close-up exploration of reefs and lobster habitats.
summer|null
Water Shoes
Protects feet from sharp coral and rough surfaces.
summer|null
Lightweight, Quick-Dry Clothing
Keeps you comfortable and dry during water activities.
summer