Key West Sail and Snorkel Day Trip from Fort Lauderdale

Traveling from Fort Lauderdale to Key West on a single day might seem ambitious, but this tour promises a combination of scenic sailing, underwater exploration, and some free time in the lively streets of Key West. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it offers a compelling option for those wanting a taste of the Keys with minimal fuss.

What we especially like about this trip is the chance to sail aboard a 50-foot catamaran, which suggests a comfortable and stable experience on the water, and the opportunity to snorkel in tropical waters teeming with marine life. These are genuine highlights that can turn an ordinary day into a memorable adventure.

However, a potential drawback is the long travel time—about 10 hours on the bus round-trip—which could be tiring, especially for those who prefer more relaxed pace or shorter excursions. This trip suits travelers who are eager to experience the Keys’ beauty in a single day and don’t mind the lengthy coach journey.

Key Points

• Comfortable sailing on a 50-foot catamaran with professional guides.
• Underwater discovery of coral reefs and tropical fish.
• Vibrant Key West exploration with free time to enjoy local sights.
• Long but scenic journey through Miami and the Florida Keys.
• Weather-dependent snorkeling means timing and conditions matter.
• Value for money includes transportation, boat cruise, snorkeling, and drinks.

This tour is designed for travelers who want a full day escape from Fort Lauderdale, crossing scenic waterways and visiting the iconic Key West. The day begins early, with a pickup from the Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport, setting the tone for a well-organized adventure.

You’ll hop onto a coach that takes you down through scenic South Florida, passing 32 islands and crossing 42 bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge. This in itself is a sightseeing highlight, with views that are worth the early start. The coach ride may be lengthy—about 4 to 4.5 hours each way—but it’s part of the experience, offering glimpses of the tropical landscape and a chance to relax and socialize.

The journey to Key West

Once you arrive in Key West, the real fun begins. The town’s atmosphere is unmistakably Caribbean—bright colors, lively streets, and a laid-back vibe. Notable sights include Mallory Square and the Hemingway House, making for a quick cultural and historic intro before heading to the harbor.

One thing to note based on reviews: some travelers felt the schedule was tight, with little time for breakfast or lunch before heading to the boat. So, bringing snacks or planning to eat quickly might be wise. The highlight here is the 50-foot catamaran, which hosts the snorkeling portion and a scenic cruise.

The sailing experience

Boarding the Aquaworld catamaran, you’ll be treated to a 2-hour cruise—a perfect way to soak in the ocean breeze and enjoy views of the islands. The crew is often praised for being friendly and knowledgeable, making everyone feel comfortable and well-informed.

This vessel is a comfortable platform for sailing and offers generous space to relax, chat, and enjoy the scenery. The boat also serves complimentary margaritas, beer, and wine after snorkeling, which many reviews note as a fun, relaxing way to unwind.

Snorkeling in tropical waters

The snorkel portion lasts approximately an hour, during which the crew provides safety instructions and gear. The water is described as warm and inviting, home to beautiful coral reefs and an abundance of fish and marine animals, including possibly manta rays.

A common theme from reviewers is the quality of the snorkeling experience—many say it exceeded expectations, with colorful fish and coral formations. One traveler noted, “The snorkeling part was good,” emphasizing that the reef was vibrant and teeming with life.

However, it’s important to remember that the snorkeling experience is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t safe, the activity might be canceled or shortened, and you will be refunded for that portion, according to the tour operator.

Free time in Key West

After the boat trip, you’ll have a couple of hours to stroll the town, visit shops, or grab a meal. Many visitors appreciate this part, as it offers a chance to soak in the lively atmosphere or snap photos of the colorful architecture. Some reviews mention the delicious local food and charming shops, making the stop worthwhile even if it’s brief.

Return journey and overall value

The trip back leaves Key West around 5:45 pm, arriving back in Fort Lauderdale late in the evening. The coach ride is long but is generally considered comfortable enough, with some travelers noting that the trip is tiring but rewarding.

All costs are included in the package, from transportation to boat cruise, snorkeling gear, and drinks. This makes the trip a good deal for those seeking a comprehensive day trip—but keep in mind that the long hours on the bus might not suit everyone.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable crew and the stunning views as high points. One said, “The crew was friendly and welcoming,” and appreciated the “amazing area” visited. Others praised the value for money, considering the full spectrum of activities included.

On the downside, some mention organizational hiccups or long travel times. One reviewer pointed out, “We spent almost 10 hours traveling,” which can be a lot for a single day. A few also expressed disappointment about lack of time for meals or felt the schedule was rushed.

A notable negative experience involved customer service issues, with at least one traveler reporting problems with booking and communication. This serves as a reminder to double-check your reservations and be prepared for possible delays or changes.

In terms of value, this trip bundles transportation, a scenic sail, snorkeling, and a chance to explore Key West—all for $149. For travelers eager to tick off a visit to the Keys but pressed for time, it packs a lot into one day.

If you love sailing and marine life, and are okay with the lengthy coach ride, you’ll likely find the experience worthwhile. The boat ride alone offers a relaxing environment and the opportunity to see the Florida Keys from a different perspective.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or shorter travel days, this might not be the best fit. The lengthy bus ride can be draining, and the tight schedule leaves little room for extended exploration or meals.

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a quick but immersive Keys experience. It’s ideal for those who enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and sightseeing in one package, and don’t mind long hours on a bus. It’s also a good pick if you’re on a budget, as it offers a comprehensive experience for around $150.

Likewise, if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy water activities and vibrant town atmospheres, this trip provides a lively, fun-filled day. Conversely, those seeking luxury, comfort, or a slow-paced exploration might prefer more relaxed, dedicated tours.

This Key West sail and snorkel day trip offers a balanced mix of scenic sailing, marine discovery, and culture. The inclusion of professional guides, comfortable boat, and drinks makes it feel like good value for the price. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to experience the Florida Keys’ beauty in a single day, with the caveat that the long bus ride is part of the overall experience.

While the schedule can feel rushed and the journey lengthy, the stunning views and vibrant marine life are well worth the effort for those eager to explore the Keys without spending multiple days or breaking the bank.

If you’re a water enthusiast, a fan of island towns, or simply want an adventure-packed day, this tour provides a solid option, provided you’re prepared for the travel time and weather uncertainties.

What is the departure point for the Key West Sail and Snorkel Day Trip from Fort Lauderdale?
The trip begins with pickup from the Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport at 1900 Stirling Rd, Dania Beach, FL.

At what times does the tour arrive and depart Key West?
You’ll arrive in Key West around 11:30 am and depart at 5:45 pm, giving you approximately 6 hours to explore the town.

What should I bring with me on this trip?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a bathing suit with a towel. These essentials will help you enjoy the day comfortably.

Are there stops along the way?
Yes, there is one rest stop during the drive to Key West, perfect for using the facilities or stretching.

How long is the snorkeling portion?
The snorkeling lasts about an hour, with the boat crew providing safety instructions and gear.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to swim?
All participants are required to be able to swim, so this experience isn’t suitable for non-swimmers.

This detailed review should help you weigh the benefits and considerations of this trip, giving you a clearer picture of whether it fits your travel style. The combination of scenic sailing, marine life, and Key West’s charm offers a memorable day for the right traveler, but be prepared for the long coach ride and weather-dependent activities.