2 ½ – Hour Guided Snorkel Tour of Phil Foster Park, Free Videos!

If you’re dreaming of glimpsing colorful fish, graceful rays, and curious octopi without spending hours searching for the best spots, then the guided snorkel tour at Phil Foster Park might just be your perfect escape. This experience, offered by UnSeen Snorkeling, promises a lively two-and-a-half hours exploring the Blue Heron Bridge’s renowned underwater ecosystem, guided by a local passionate about sharing the area’s marine treasures. With a solid reputation backed by over 300 glowing reviews and a perfect rating of 5.0, this tour is highly recommended for travelers seeking an authentic and engaging snorkeling adventure.

We love how this tour emphasizes education and genuine wildlife encounters—your guide is a native who knows the best hiding spots and can tell you all about the behavior and biology of the creatures you’ll see. Plus, it’s great to know that children and first-time snorkelers are warmly welcomed, making this suitable for family outings or anyone new to snorkeling. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour size is limited to 12 people, which helps keep the experience personal and manageable. If you’re looking for a fun, informative, and accessible underwater outing, this tour hits many marks.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent, so poor conditions might mean rescheduling or cancellation. Also, while the price of $60 per person offers good value given the guide’s expertise and the intimate group size, some might consider the additional $10 wetsuit fee if they need extra warmth. Still, for the chance to see some of Florida’s most impressive marine life up close, many find this tour well worth the investment.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love a mix of education and adventure, those curious about marine ecosystems, or families with kids looking for an engaging outdoor activity. It’s equally suitable for snorkelers at all experience levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned swimmers wanting to add some new stories to their collection.

Key Points

• Guided by a local expert passionate about marine life and the Blue Heron Bridge ecosystem.
• Offers a balance of education, adventure, and personal attention in a small group setting.
• Suitable for first-time snorkelers and children, with wetsuit options available.
• Expect to see rays, starfish, octopi, moray eels, and possibly sea turtles.
• Tour is weather-dependent, with a full refund or rescheduling option.
• The experience tends to be booked about a week in advance, making early planning wise.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The tour begins at Phil Foster Park, conveniently located at 900 Blue Heron Blvd in Riviera Beach. The start point is accessible by public transportation and easy to find, which is a relief for travelers not wanting to fuss over complicated logistics. Once you gather with your small group—capped at 12 participants—you’ll meet your guide, Westin, whose local roots and marine enthusiasm shine through immediately.

The itinerary and what you can expect:
Your guide will take you to some of the best spots around the Blue Heron Bridge, a site famous among snorkelers for its clear waters and abundance of marine life. Unlike typical tourist-heavy snorkel tours, this experience emphasizes exploring hidden underwater areas and learning about the ecosystem. Westin’s extensive knowledge means you’ll not only see the creatures but learn fascinating facts about their behaviors and habitats.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, providing plenty of time to see a variety of sea life without feeling rushed. You might find yourself hovering over a curious octopus or watching rays glide by, just inches beneath the surface. Many reviews mention how attentive the guide is—making sure everyone is comfortable, explaining what’s happening, and even bringing interesting sea creatures up to surface level for all to see.

What about the gear?
The tour usually includes snorkel equipment, but for those who prefer wetsuits, an additional $10 fee is available. Many reviewers appreciated this option, especially on cooler days, as it helps extend comfort and enjoyment. The guide is also attentive to beginners, offering clear instructions and reassurance, which is key for those new to snorkeling or unsure about their abilities.

Authentic underwater encounters:
It’s the personal touches that set this tour apart. Several guests praised Westin for pointing out diverse creatures—fish, sea turtles, even sharks—and for sharing stories that deepen your appreciation of the local marine environment. One guest noted, “He was very knowledgeable and considerate of the group we had. He brought stuff up to the surface so everyone could see it, and made sure everyone stayed together to get the best experience.”

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing everyone to get closer to the action and ask questions. This intimacy also means less crowding and a more relaxed atmosphere—good news for families with kids or first-timers.

The reviews provide a clear picture:
– “This was an amazing experience, and Westin was a professional, passionate, and experienced guide,” shares Mercedes.
– “Had so much fun! 100% recommend!” exclaims Monica, emphasizing Westin’s ability to make everyone feel comfortable and engaged.
– “Westin was fantastic—took the instructions slow and made sure everyone was comfortable throughout,” notes another guest, highlighting the guide’s considerate approach.

Making the Most of Your Snorkeling Adventure

While the core of this tour is the underwater exploration, a few practical tips can help enhance your experience. First, consider the weather forecast—poor weather can lead to cancellation with a full refund. Arriving with a positive attitude and a sense of curiosity will really let you get the most out of the guided commentary and wildlife sightings.

Bring your own sunscreen, especially reef-safe types, and consider water shoes if you’re sensitive about walking on rocky surfaces. If you’re prone to feeling chilly, the wetsuit option is a wise choice. The tour fee includes your snorkel gear, making it straightforward to join, but confirm your booking in advance to secure your spot during peak times.

The tour’s timing means you’ll likely be snorkeling during daytime hours, perfect for clear water and seeing the vibrant marine life. Since most travelers book about 8 days in advance, planning ahead is a good idea, especially during peak seasons or weekends.

Pricing and Value

At $60 per person, this tour offers good value when you consider the expertise of your guide, the small-group setting, and the chance to see some of Florida’s most interesting sea creatures. The additional wetsuit fee is optional but can significantly improve comfort, especially for those sensitive to cooler waters. The inclusion of free videos after the tour is a bonus—these provide lasting memories and a chance to re-experience the underwater sights.

Given the reviews, many guests feel they received more than their money’s worth—learning about marine life, seeing animals up close, and enjoying a relaxed, friendly environment. For families, the approachable guide and manageable group size make it a memorable outing for children and adults alike.

The Sum Up

This guided snorkel tour at Phil Foster Park is a prime example of how a well-run, intimate experience can turn an ordinary day into a memorable adventure. With a local guide who’s passionate about marine life, you’re not just watching fish—you’re learning, touching, and truly appreciating Florida’s underwater beauty.

The small group size, flexible options (like wetsuits), and educational focus make it ideal for beginners, families, and anyone eager to see marine creatures in their natural habitat. The tour’s emphasis on authenticity and personal connection means guests often leave with new knowledge and a sense of wonder.

While weather can be a factor, the flexible policy and overall high reviews suggest that most participants walk away delighted. This tour offers genuine value—combining expert guidance, accessible fun, and a chance to see some of the most fascinating creatures in Florida’s waters—making it a recommended pick for your next aquatic adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The guided snorkeling experience takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, providing plenty of time to explore and learn about marine life.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Phil Foster Park, located at 900 Blue Heron Blvd in Riviera Beach. It’s accessible by public transportation and easy to find.

Is this suitable for children or first-time snorkelers?
Yes, the tour is designed to be inclusive, welcoming children and first-time snorkelers. The guide is attentive and provides clear instructions, making everyone feel comfortable.

What is included in the price?
The tour costs $60 per person and includes snorkel equipment. Wetsuit rentals are available for an additional $10. Free videos of your underwater experience are also provided afterward.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund. The tour confirmation is immediate, and updates are communicated clearly.

How many people are in each tour?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized and relaxed experience.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations are not eligible for refunds, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on marine life education suggests an appreciation for protecting the ecosystem. Remember to use reef-safe sunscreen and follow guide instructions to minimize your impact.

This detailed tour review hopefully helps you decide if it’s the right fit for your Florida trip—an authentic, fun, and educational snorkeling experience that’s likely to leave you with plenty of stories and perhaps a new appreciation for the ocean’s wonders.