Marathon Coffins Patch Reef Snorkel & Sandbar Tour

Taking a boat trip in Key West’s surrounding waters is nearly obligatory—and this Coffins Patch and Sandbar Tour from Solé Watersports manages to pack a lot into just a few hours. For those who love exploring vibrant coral reefs and relaxing on white sandy bottoms, this trip promises a mix of snorkeling adventure and laid-back fun—perfect for families, couples, or anyone craving a refreshing sea escape.

What we really appreciate about this outing is how it balances nature encounters with pure relaxation. The highlight is the reefs of Coffins Patch, a protected sanctuary with remnants of a Spanish galleon and the chance to see a variety of sea life. Then, there’s the Grassy Key Sandbar, where floating mats and shallow waters make for a perfect chill zone. Just keep in mind that you need to be a confident swimmer to enjoy the snorkeling, especially given the variable conditions that can make the water a little rough at times.

All in all, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a manageable, family-friendly adventure with a good mix of underwater exploration and sunshine. If your idea of a good time involves seeing marine life up close and lounging in warm shallow waters, this could be just the ticket. But if you’re expecting lengthy deep dives or more adventurous waters, you might find this experience a bit tame.

Key Points

• Balanced experience of reef snorkeling and relaxing at a sandbar
• All necessary gear and floats included, making it easy to just show up and enjoy
• Weather conditions can vary, so be prepared for possible rougher water
• Suitable for proficient swimmers comfortable with shallow reef environments
• About 3.5 hours total, with ample time for each stop
• Family-friendly overall, but physical fitness is recommended

An In-depth Look at the Marathon Coffins Patch Snorkel & Sandbar Tour

If you’re considering booking this tour, it’s worth understanding what each part entails—and what you can expect along the way.

Starting Point and Duration

The trip kicks off at Marathon’s Tarpon Creek Marina, located at 13205 Overseas Hwy, at 10:00am. The entire experience lasts roughly 3 hours 30 minutes, which makes it a quick but satisfying escape from the crowds or your hotel. As a mobile-ticket experience, it’s straightforward—simply show your confirmation and hop aboard.

The First Stop: Coffins Patch Reef Snorkeling

A little under four nautical miles off Key Colony Beach, the Coffins Patch Sanctuary offers some of the most accessible, shallow reef snorkeling in the Middle Keys. The reefs sit at 8 to 15 feet, making them suitable for snorkelers who are comfortable in water, and is perfect for seeing colorful tropical fish, coral formations, and the remains of a Spanish Galleon wreckage from around 1733.

People love the abundance of sea life here. Reviewers have noted seeing dolphins, which adds a bonus to the underwater scenery. One reviewer mentioned that, despite a day with rougher conditions, the crew expertly managed the situation and kept everyone safe and comfortable. This shows that the crew is not only knowledgeable but attentive, especially when the water gets choppy.

However, the weather can influence snorkeling quality. Some reviewers found that waves and currents fluctuate, impacting visibility and comfort. For those prone to seasickness or less confident swimmers, it’s wise to bring a wetsuit or ask the crew in advance. The tour provides all snorkel gear, noodles, and balls, so you won’t need to worry about equipment.

The Second Stop: Grassy Key Sandbar

After about an hour spent exploring the reef, the boat cruises to the Grassy Key Sandbar—a shallow, white sandy bottom area just 0-4 feet deep. This spot is all about relaxation and fun in the sun. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike, thanks to its warm, bath-like waters and fun floating amenities.

Here, you’ll find a giant floating mat, noodles, and coolers with water—all included. The sandbar offers plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, floating, or just watching the clouds drift by. It’s a great chance to soak up some Florida sunshine or try a bit of shallow snorkeling with conchs, starfish, horseshoe crabs, and maybe even a turtle or two. Many reviewers remarked on how relaxing and enjoyable this part was, with one calling it the “perfect way to end the trip.”

Keep in mind that conditions at the sandbar can vary, but generally, it’s a shallow, safe spot to unwind. The shallow depths (just a few feet) make it ideal for families or anyone who wants a break from more active water sports.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour covers all snorkel gear, noodles, floating mats, and water—a real plus for travelers who prefer convenience. Restrooms are available on the boat, and beverages/snacks can be purchased at the marina if you want more variety.

Beverages and snacks are not included in the price but can be bought separately; this allows flexibility for those with specific preferences or dietary needs. The tour does not include any other food, so bringing a small snack might be a good idea if you tend to get hungry.

The Experience and Crew

The reviews repeatedly praise the friendly, knowledgeable crew. Many mention crew members like Chelsea, Jody, Lauren, Jenn, and Captain Greg as being attentive, fun, and professional. Travelers frequently highlight how the crew makes the experience special—sharing interesting facts, helping less confident swimmers, or just keeping the mood light and relaxed.

For instance, one review states, “Captain Craig and Sam were excellent with kids and grandkids. They loved every minute.” Another reviewer appreciated the crew’s effort to get everyone out snorkeling despite tricky weather conditions.

The boat itself is described as clean and well-organized, with a size that comfortably accommodates up to 40 travelers. This isn’t a crowded, noisy tour—more like a friendly, guided outing where you can feel safe and well attended.

The Weather Factor

Weather is always a wild card in outdoor water trips. Several reviews mention challenging conditions like wind and waves, which can impact snorkeling quality. Still, the crew’s responsiveness and care often shine through, offering alternatives or extra gear (like wetsuits) when available.

Price and Value

At $139 per person, this tour offers good value, especially when considering all gear, floats, and the unique experience of snorkeling and relaxing on a sandbar. Comparing to other tours, the inclusion of the floating mats and the chance to see shipwreck remains and tropical fish makes this a compelling choice for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and leisure.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those comfortable in water and eager to see marine life firsthand. It’s especially suited for families with kids, couples, or groups looking for a relaxed day on the water. If you enjoy snorkeling, floating, and soaking up sunshine, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, because conditions can vary, proficient swimmers will get the most out of the reef stop. It’s not a deep-sea adventure, but rather a shallow, accessible reef perfect for observing coral and tropical fish. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer calmer waters, it might be worth asking about wetsuits or checking weather forecasts beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This Coffins Patch and Sandbar Tour from Solé Watersports offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience for anyone wanting a taste of the Keys’ marine beauty and sunshine. The trip’s highlights—snorkeling over colorful reefs with remnants of history and relaxing on a white sandbar with floats and snacks—are both engaging and restorative.

The friendly crew and well-organized boat keep the experience smooth, even on days with less-than-ideal weather. While you should be comfortable in water, the shallow reef and floating amenities make this accessible for most moderately confident swimmers.

If your goal is to explore marine life, enjoy easygoing water fun, and soak up the Florida sunshine, this tour delivers a lot of value in just a few hours. It’s a perfect choice for travelers seeking a family-friendly, relaxed, and visually stunning adventure in the Keys.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours 30 minutes, with roughly an hour spent at each stop.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Marathon’s Tarpon Creek Marina at 13205 Overseas Hwy in Marathon.

What should I bring?
While the tour provides all snorkel gear and floats, bringing sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera will help you enjoy and remember the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It can be, but participants should be proficient swimmers and comfortable in shallow water. Always check the weather and sea conditions before booking with kids.

What’s included in the price?
Inclusive of snorkel gear, noodles, floating mats, water, and restroom access on the boat. Snacks and additional drinks can be purchased at the marina.

Are wetsuits available?
Not explicitly, but some reviews suggest bringing or requesting wetsuits if conditions are rough or water is cold.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people can join?
The maximum group size is 40 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience without feeling crowded.

Is this a good value?
Considering the all-included gear, the boat ride, and the unique stops, many find this tour to be worth the price—especially when comparing it to other local options.

Can I see marine life like dolphins or turtles?
While dolphins have been seen on some trips, the main focus is reef snorkeling and relaxing at the sandbar. Marine life sightings are common but not guaranteed.

In the end, the Marathon Coffins Patch Snorkel & Sandbar Tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience some of the best shallow reef environments and beaches in the Keys. With friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and plenty of opportunities to relax or explore, it’s a trip well suited for those who want a taste of tropical waters without a lengthy or overly challenging adventure.