Key West: Smathers Beach & activities with a Sunset Catamaran & Open Bar

Planning a day in Key West that combines fun in the sun with breathtaking sunset views? This tour offers precisely that—starting with a lively day at Smathers Beach, followed by a luxurious sunset sail on a spacious catamaran, complete with an open bar. It’s a versatile experience that caters to both water lovers and those looking to unwind in style.

What we particularly like about this tour is its flexibility—you can indulge in as many water activities as you like or simply lounge and soak up the Florida sunshine. The highlight, definitely, is the sunset cruise, which features live music and unlimited well drinks, making it a memorable finale. The one consideration? The tour’s price of $229.99 per person might seem steep for some, but when you factor in the all-day access to water sports, round-trip transportation, and the premium sunset experience, it offers good value.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a full-day adventure with a mix of active water activities and relaxing scenic cruising. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, it promises a versatile day out that appeals to a wide range of interests.

Key Points

• Multiple Water Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, parasailing, and more are included, offering plenty of ways to stay active.
• Convenient Transportation: Round-trip transfers from Miami make the day hassle-free.
• All-Day Flexibility: You can arrive at Smathers Beach anytime after 9 am and enjoy the water activities at your own pace.
• Sunset Experience: A 2-hour cruise aboard a luxury catamaran with live music and unlimited well drinks.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with plenty of space and safety equipment.
• Good Value: Combines multiple activities into one ticket, saving time and money.

A Deep Dive into the Day: What to Expect

Starting Your Day at Smathers Beach

Your adventure begins at Smathers Beach, one of Key West’s most iconic stretches of sand. Located at 2601 S Roosevelt Blvd, the beach is known for its soft white sands and clear waters—perfect for a day of water-based fun. The tour offers unlimited water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, parasailing, and even banana boat rides. Whether you’re an experienced water sports enthusiast or a first-timer, all equipment is provided, and safety is a priority with crew members actively watching guests during watersports.

Travelers mention that you can arrive anytime after 9 am, and you’re free to stay until the tour’s end. Some reviewers appreciated the flexibility, noting that they enjoyed a relaxing morning lounging in a beach chair with an umbrella, while others took advantage of the water activities right away. A typical day here allows for a balance of active pursuits and downtime.

The Water Sports: Fun, Variety, and Safety

The inclusion of snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing means you get a taste of everything. We loved the way the tour caters to different energy levels—those craving adventure can go parasailing or explore the reefs, while others might prefer leisurely paddling or just soaking in the sun.

One reviewer shared that the water trampoline and inflatable slides added an extra layer of fun for kids and families, making it an ideal spot for a family day out. The equipment is modern and well-maintained, and the crew is friendly, offering tips and assistance when needed.

Lunch and Snacks: Light Bites and Refreshments

While the tour doesn’t include a full meal at the beach, there are plenty of options for snacks and drinks. According to reviews, the focus is on refreshing beverages and light finger foods, which prepare you for the sunset sail. Many travelers mention bringing their own snacks or pre-packed meals to extend their enjoyment.

Transition to the Sunset Cruise

At 4:15 pm, you’ll check in for the sunset catamaran cruise at 201 Wiliam Street, with the sail scheduled to depart at 5 pm. The ship is a luxury 65-foot Gold Coast yacht, boasting two decks, an air-conditioned interior, multiple restrooms, and a spacious sun deck. This setup ensures everyone can find a comfortable spot to watch the sunset.

The Sunset Sail: Scenic, Musical, and Social

The 2-hour cruise sets the stage for a truly memorable evening. The boat features live music—an eclectic mix of songs and styles—that complements the stunning views. As the boat gently glides by landmarks like Mallory Square and Sunset Key, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap photos or just soak in the breathtaking vistas.

The highlight, of course, is the sunset itself—a vibrant display of colors melting into the horizon. Reviewers consistently mentioned the spectacular views, describing the scene as “majestic,” “peaceful,” and “romantic.” The crew offers complimentary reef-safe sunscreen during the cruise, and you’re encouraged to bring your camera and ID.

Drinks, Food, and Atmosphere

An open bar is included, offering unlimited well drinks, rum-runners, margaritas, draft beer, wine, and champagne. For those wanting a little extra, premium drinks and bottled beer can be purchased separately. Many guests appreciated the quality of the drinks and the relaxed atmosphere created by the live music.

A selection of finger foods is served—think Jamaican jerk chicken sliders, BBQ meatballs, veggie trays, and cheeses. While not a full dinner, the snacks are flavorful and satisfying, perfect for pairing with your drinks as you enjoy the sunset.

Final Notes on the Experience

The entire cruise is family-friendly and accommodating, with multiple decks and plenty of space to enjoy the views. The crew is attentive and ensures safety amid a lively, upbeat environment. Reviewers have expressed appreciation for the professionalism of the staff, with some mentioning the captain’s skill in navigating the best routes for sunset views based on weather conditions.

Analyzing the Value

For $229.99, this tour offers a full day of diverse activities. The combination of water sports, transportation, and a scenic sunset cruise makes it a convenient and cost-effective choice for travelers who want the most out of their day in Key West. When compared to booking separate activities, this package not only saves time but also offers a seamless experience that caters to different interests.

Some travelers noted that the all-day access to water sports is especially valuable, giving flexibility to spend as much or as little time as you like in each activity. The round-trip transfer from Miami is a bonus, particularly for visitors staying there and looking for a hassle-free day trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy water sports and scenic views in one package. It’s great for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a mix of active fun and relaxed scenery.

If you love spectacular sunsets, good music, and unlimited drinks, this tour ticks those boxes. Conversely, if you’re more interested in a full sit-down dinner or specific high-end drinks, you might find the open bar and snack options a bit limited.

Ultimately, it’s a well-rounded, engaging day that balances action with relaxation, making it a strong choice for those seeking a fun and memorable day in Key West.

FAQ

Where is the meeting location for the Smathers Beach with Sunset Catamaran?
You can head straight to Smathers Beach at 2601 S Roosevelt Blvd to enjoy the day, and your catamaran tickets will be emailed with exact meeting instructions. For transportation from Miami, contact the operator directly after booking.

Is parking available near the meeting point?
Yes, street parking is available for $5 per hour Monday through Saturday, with pay kiosks along the sidewalk.

How early should I arrive for the sunset cruise?
Check-in for the cruise is at 4:15 pm at 201 Wiliam Street. Arriving early ensures smooth boarding and plenty of time to settle in before the 5 pm departure.

What water activities are included?
You can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, parasailing, banana boat rides, and water trampoline—everything is included as part of the day’s fun.

What kind of boat is used for the sunset sail?
The cruise is aboard a luxury 65-foot Gold Coast yacht with two decks, an air-conditioned interior, multiple restrooms, and a large sun deck for viewing.

Are there options for full meal onboard?
No full dinner is served, but a delicious selection of finger foods—including jerk chicken sliders, BBQ meatballs, and veggie trays—is available.

What drinks are included?
The open well bar offers unlimited rum-runners, margaritas, well mixed drinks, draft beer, wine, and champagne. Premium drinks can be purchased separately or upgraded upon arrival.

Can I upgrade my drinks?
Yes, for an additional $19, you can upgrade to include unlimited top-shelf frozen and mixed drinks.

Do I need swimming skills?
While knowing how to swim is advisable, the crew provides life vests and inflatable rafts, and actively watches guests during water activities.

What if the weather is bad?
The captain will assess weather conditions and may postpone or cancel the tour for safety reasons. In such cases, rescheduling or refunds are offered.

Final Thoughts

This Key West combo tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. The variety of water activities ensures there’s something for all, whether you want to splash around or just lounge with a drink in hand. The sunset cruise adds a touch of elegance and tranquility, with live music and unlimited well drinks creating a perfect backdrop.

For travelers who value convenience and variety, this experience delivers a full day packed with memorable moments. The combination of flexible timing, quality equipment, and scenic cruising makes it a standout choice for those seeking a fun, authentic Key West experience.

If you’re after a well-rounded day filled with active water fun and spectacular views, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, good drinks, and breathtaking scenery—all in one package.

Whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or seeking adventure, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to make the most of your time in Key West.