Key West Schooner Appledore Backcountry Eco-Tour: Sail, Snorkel & Kayak

214 Reviews4.87 out of 5 stars Based on 214 traveler reviews collected by Key West Water Sports and TripAdvisor |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Key West

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5 hours
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Instant Confirmation

Overview

Set sail from Historic Seaport on the Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco-Tour adventure!

Highlights

  • Enjoy sailing, snorkeling and kayaking
  • Buffet lunch, snacks, and refreshments

Description

Set sail aboard our classically styled schooner as she departs Key West's Historic Seaport for a full day of sailing and exploration through the pristine waters of the Gulf of Mexico.  Observe complex ecosystems and flourishing marine life as you snorkel the backcountry's own unique patch reef and kayak through centuries-old, uninhabited mangrove islands.  Enjoy our ample and diverse buffet lunch, snacks, and refreshments throughout the duration of your trip.  Adults are welcome to indulge in bottomless beer and wine on our leisurely sail back towards the harbor.

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What's Included

  • Professional guide
  • All equipment
  • Full buffet lunch and afternoon snacks
  • Gratuity
  • Hotel pickup not offered
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Additional Info

  • Spaces are extremely limited this time of year, so book early to get the date you want.
  • This tour accepts both printed and electronic vouchers (e-vouchers).
  • Complete operator information, including local telephone number, will be included on your Confirmation Voucher.

Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ

The answers provided below are based on answers previously given to travelers by the Key West Water Sports customer support team.

Is kayaking a safe activity?

Your safety is Key West Water Sports‘s number one concern. In general, sea kayaking is safer than most other outdoor pursuits, even bicycling.

How stable are the kayaks and do they ever tip over?

The tandem kayaks Key West Water Sports used on Key West Schooner Appledore Backcountry Eco-Tour: Sail, Snorkel & Kayak comfortably hold two paddlers and are extremely stable, much more than solo kayaks. It’s actually quite difficult to tip a tandem kayak over. Capsizes happen to fewer than 1 out of 100 participants. Nearly all capsizes are a result of water fights and other sorts of goofing around.

Are there any weight restrictions for kayaking?

The maximum capacity for kayaking on Key West Schooner Appledore Backcountry Eco-Tour: Sail, Snorkel & Kayak is 340 lbs.

Can I go snorkeling if I cannot swim?

Yes, this is possible, as long as you are comfortable going into the water. All Key West Water Sports snorkeling tours adhere to strict safety regulations and have been designed to be enjoyed by all.

Your safety is our #1 priority, which is why:

  1. You will be wearing a flotation device at all times.
  2. On many tours, there is a stairway from the boat into the water so you won’t have to “jump” in!
  3. There are trained staff in the water and watching from the boat at all times.

For these reasons, we believe that even non-swimmers can have a wonderful time on our snorkeling trips, however, the final judgment call is yours to make. Please note we do not give refunds if you decide not to snorkel on the trip.

Can we use our own snorkeling gear?

The snorkel gear we use on Key West Water Sports tours is high quality and for your protection, the equipment is sanitized after each use. However, if you feel more comfortable using your own snorkeling equipment, feel free to bring it on the tour. Please note, there is no discount for providing your own equipment and we can’t be responsible for any lost or damaged items.

Do I need kayaking experience or will you teach me?

No experience is necessary! Beginners are welcome on all of our kayak tours. Most of our guests have never been in a sea kayak before. Anyone in average physical condition may join a kayak tour. If you can hike or bike, you can paddle our sea kayaks. You do not need any swimming skills either.

The only prerequisite is a healthy spirit of curiosity and adventure.

Regardless of age or skill level you will find that our expeditions offer enough flexibility to make your experience with us safe and rewarding. We will show you proper sea kayaking technique and water safety before leaving the beach. And your expert guides will be with you throughout the adventure to give you pointers and improve your skills.

I've never snorkeled before, will I be OK?

First-time snorkelers can be assured of one-on-one instruction and assistance. We find introducing folks to our world very rewarding!

What is the age limit for snorkeling?

There are no legal age limits for snorkeling. We have found that age 5 or 6 is a good age to learn the basics of snorkeling, however, it’s entirely up to individuals to make the best choice for their family.

Will I get seasick on Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco-Tour?

If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.

What is the weather cancellation policy?

If the Key West Schooner Appledore Backcountry Eco-Tour: Sail, Snorkel & Kayak must be canceled due to bad weather, and you cannot go on another day or time, you will be issued a refund by Key West Water Sports.

Where can I park my car?

If required, parking instructions for the Key West Schooner Appledore Backcountry Eco-Tour: Sail, Snorkel & Kayak will be included in your confirmation email.

Where is the meeting point for this activity?

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Key West Schooner Appledore Backcountry Eco-Tour: Sail, Snorkel & Kayak will be included in your confirmation email from Key West Water Sports. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We’re here to help.
Live Chat, Text, Call, or Email our friendly customer support with your questions.

Activity code: C-286167

Reviews

4.87
214 reviews

Average 4.87 out of 5 stars based on 214 traveler reviews collected by Key West Water Sports and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
194
4 stars
12
3 stars
8
2 stars
0
1 star
0

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