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Cruise from Islamorada to the Alligator Reef Lighthouse for guided snorkeling among coral gardens, sea turtles, and dolphins—snorkel gear and cold beverages included in this family-ready, four-hour Upper Keys charter.
Cruise from Islamorada to the Alligator Reef Lighthouse for guided snorkeling among coral gardens, sea turtles, and dolphins—snorkel gear and cold beverages included in this family-ready, four-hour Upper Keys charter.
Book with Upper Keys Cruises and Charters
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Upper Keys Cruises and Charters · Islamorada, Florida
Alligator Reef Snorkel & Sunset departs from 90611 Old Overseas Hwy in Islamorada, Florida, offering a four-hour Upper Keys cruise to the coral gardens surrounding the Alligator Reef Lighthouse. On this trip, experienced crew from Upper Keys Cruises and Charters guide families and small groups to a shallow, living reef where stony corals, seagrass flats, and spur-and-groove formations host schooling tropical fish. The itinerary is straightforward: a roughly 45-minute run to the reef, about two hours of guided snorkeling, then a 45-minute return, giving you plenty of surface time for dolphins to play or for roll-on sunset light to sharpen the lighthouse silhouette. What makes this charter special is the pairing of a classic light station—Alligator Reef’s iron-skeleton tower—with a healthy nearshore coral community that supports sea turtles, spotted rays, and frequent bottlenose dolphin encounters. Guides provide all snorkel gear, USCG-required safety equipment, and cold beverages, so you can focus on the water: tracing parrotfish grazing scars, peering into nooks where juvenile snapper hide, and watching hawksbill and green turtles cruise the flats. This is a family-friendly outing with a maximum of 22 passengers and a practical minimum of 10 to run the trip. The crew emphasizes safety and reef stewardship; they brief guests on reef-safe sunscreen and proper finning to avoid contact with corals. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The booking includes snorkel gear and drinks; guests are encouraged to bring reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof camera, snacks, and electrolytes. Timing matters. Calm mornings or late afternoons reduce surface chop and improve visibility; evening light adds dramatic contrast to the lighthouse. Because weather drives operations, the operator requires a 72-hour cancellation window for full refunds, though trip protection is available for last-minute changes. For visitors who want an efficient, memorable marine experience in the Upper Keys, this charter delivers vivid snorkeling and the rare chance to experience a historic offshore marker up close. It’s an accessible way to sample the Florida Keys’ coral ecosystems without a full scuba certification, and because the trip blends cruising, snorkeling, and sunset watching, it suits mixed-ability groups. Arrive about 15 minutes early at 90611 Old Overseas Hwy to check in and get fitted with gear. With experienced crew, a compact group size, and the lighthouse as a backdrop, Alligator Reef Snorkel & Sunset is an ideal half-day escape for families and small adventure groups exploring Islamorada. Bring a small dry bag to keep phones and snacks protected and consider motion-sickness remedies if you are sensitive; the crew is practiced at accommodating mixed comfort levels and will suggest the calmest side of the boat for snorkeling entries. Book early—space fills for sunset runs during high season. Pack reef-safe sunscreen and water.
moderate.
4 hours.
Basic swimming ability and moderate mobility for boarding and snorkeling; comfortable for most families.
Pets are allowed only on private charters to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests.
Yes—cold sodas and water are provided aboard the boat.
The charter accommodates up to 22 passengers; there is a 10-person minimum for departure.
Weather determines operations; the team will contact you about cancellations or reschedules and the cancellation policy requires 72 hours for full refunds.
Yes—guides provide briefings and assistance; basic swimming ability and comfort in shallow water are recommended.
Wetsuits are not listed as included; water in the Keys is often warm, but bring a rashguard or your own wetsuit if you prefer extra warmth.
Alligator Reef Lighthouse is a historic offshore light station that marks a hazardous reef and doubles as a dramatic focal point for snorkel trips.
The operator emphasizes reef stewardship—guests are briefed to avoid touching coral and to use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize environmental impact.
Upper Keys Cruises and Charters operates specialized small-group cruises and private charters. The company offers a range of experiences including the Sunset Cruise, Sandbar Cruise, Private Charter With Captain, and Snorkel Only Cruise. Trips accommodate groups seeking social sailing, snorkeling, sandbar stops, and private events such as bachelor or bachelorette parties, weddings, and birthdays. Several shared trips require a minimum of ten participants; when minimums are not met, the company assists with rescheduling or refunds. Private charters with a captain are available for customized itineraries, including snorkeling and sandbar visits; guests are encouraged to call for availability if preferred times are sold out. Safety and experienced captains are central to each outing, and each cruise focuses on delivering memorable time on the water with clear expectations about group size and booking policies. Shared cruises emphasize group camaraderie and open-water sailing, while private charters provide a more customized experience for special occasions. Booking details and exact departure locations are provided at the time of reservation. Upper Keys Cruises and Charters is featured on The Adventure Collective, allowing potential guests to find the operator's listing and trip summaries. All descriptions and trip options reflect the experiences currently offered by the operator, and policies such as minimum participant requirements and assistance with rescheduling or refunds are part of advertised trip conditions. Guests are encouraged to call for availability when preferred times are sold out; several shared cruises require a ten-person minimum and the operator will assist with rescheduling or refunds, as stated.
Book with Upper Keys Cruises and Charters