Glide over shallow reefs, concrete cannons and anchors on Fort Lauderdale’s Jean Cousteau Shipwreck Trail. This 90-minute snorkel mixes easy swimming with rich marine life and a history of local reef restoration.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push off from a sandy rip-rap, the Atlantic morning pressing cool against your arms as guides point the group toward a shallow line of broken coral and concrete relics bobbing under a flat blue surface. The trail—laid out as a shipwreck tableau—sits in waist-to-chest-deep water for much of the route, letting swimmers glide above anchors, ballast piles and replica cannons while schools of reef fish scroll by.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; must be able to swim and snorkel continuously for the tour length
Wildlife
History
The trail was developed in the late 1990s and dedicated by Jean-Michel Cousteau in 2002 as part of local reef-awareness and early coral restoration efforts.
Conservation
The site is sensitive; guests are asked not to touch coral or feed fish. Operators support local cleanup and coral-project initiatives to reduce debris and encourage regrowth.
Reserve your spot on the Snorkel Fort Lauderdale Jean Cousteaus Reef and Snorkel Trail today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Call the guide 24 hours ahead
Operators require a verbal check-in to confirm ocean conditions, shoe sizes and parking — don’t skip this step.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen
Protect skin and the reef by choosing biodegradable, non-oxybenzone sun protection and reapplying before entry.
Mask fit and anti-fog
Use a well-fitted mask and anti-fog solution or saliva technique to keep visibility clear during the 90-minute tour.
Practice buoyancy and sightlines
Keep slow, controlled kicks and maintain distance from coral and wreck replicas to avoid accidental contact.
Snorkel mask (personal fit)
A well-fitted mask improves comfort and visibility and reduces water leaks.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin without harming coral and marine life.
summer
Rash guard or wetskin
Provides sun protection and light thermal insulation in breezy or cooler mornings.
spring
Water shoes or reef booties
Protect feet during beach entries and on rocky shore approaches.