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Key West Backcountry Safari

2,254 Reviews 4.93 out of 5 stars Based on 2,254 traveler reviews collected by Tours of Key West and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 99% of travelers |
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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On average, this is booked 40 (21.19) days in advance.

4.5 or 6.5 hours (approx.)
2 blocks from cruise ship port
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Overview

Spend an unforgettable day sailing emerald waters, kayaking mangrove-shaded channels and snorkeling coral gardens in an unspoiled marine wilderness.

Highlights

  • Voyage into the Backcountry under sail on a traditional 65ft Skipjack schooner.
  • Listen to a historical chart talk and learn about Key West maritime history.
  • Paddle a kayak on a guided tour through the mangrove island ecosystem.
  • Snorkel unspoiled waters to encounter tropical fish and exotic marine life.
  • Enjoy beverages, snacks and a delicious picnic lunch afloat.
  • Relax on a deserted island beach or remote sandbar.
  • Celebrate happy hour in paradise with cold beer, wine and sodas.

Description

The inhabited islands of the Florida Keys are just one small part of a 100-mile-long strip of shallow water flats, tangled channels and wild mangrove islands separating the Atlantic Ocean from the Gulf of Mexico. Much of this vast area is untouched marine wilderness preserved as the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and in several wildlife refuges and national parks that lie within the Sanctuary. This is the Florida Keys Backcountry – the last remaining example of wild, untouched Florida and one of North America’s premiere ecotourism destinations. This nearly pristine environment is notable not only for its incredible variety of marine and bird life but also for the ease of access offered by its proximity to the bustling resort island of Key West. Key West visitors who love unspoiled nature will want to take advantage of the opportunity to explore the world of primal beauty and natural serenity that awaits just a short sail offshore.

Our Key West Backcountry Safari is the perfect way to do just that. You will board a custom-designed replica of a 19th century Skipjack schooner and set sail out into the Key West National Wildlife Refuge to spend a day kayaking and snorkeling in a wonderland of clear water flats, coral patch reefs and mangrove islands. The marine topography of the Backcountry makes an ideal setting for this type of expedition as it is nearly always possible to find the calm, sheltered waters and good visibility that are perfect for kayaking and snorkeling. With the schooner moored off a choice mangrove island, you will be free to paddle through the shaded channels with an expert guide, don mask and snorkel to explore patch reefs and sponge gardens or simply relax and take in the sun, scenery and silence.

Simple to use even for total novices, the modern sea kayak is perfect for poking around the shallow water domains of mangrove-canopied islands. Agile and silent, the kayak will let you approach and observe the wildlife that lives both in and above the water. Spot exotic birds both migrant and resident, small invertebrates, tropical fish, rays, sharks, sport fish and maybe even a sea turtle. If it is your first time in a kayak, a few minutes of instruction from your guide will have you paddling like an old hand. The same goes for beginner snorkelers - a bit of friendly expert help and you will be ready to enjoy this exciting yet incredibly relaxing water sport. A few flips of your fins will let you glide effortlessly through the amazing underwater world of beautiful corals, lush sponge gardens, colorful tropical fish and incredible marine life of all varieties.

After a morning in and on the water, the crew will set sail again and a delicious picnic lunch will be laid out to tempt you with artisanal breads, deli meats and cheeses, curried chicken, tuna, and pasta salads, tropical fruit and beverages including soda, wine and beer. Eat lunch on deck, and if the weather holds, your captain will take you to a deserted island beach or sugar-white sand bar where you can celebrate the day with a cold beverage and some more exploration or just pure relaxation.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the wild side of Key West and a day full of fun on the water. Take an eco-tour into a marine environment that is world-renowned for its natural beauty and variety of life yet so easy to reach with a simple day trip. Everything is included – all you need is your swimsuit, beach bag and camera. Make your reservations now and plan an unforgettable Backcountry Safari into your Key West itinerary.

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What's Included

  • Snacks
  • Buffet lunch (on full day trip)
  • All Equipment and Instruction
  • Gratuities
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What To Expect

Get ready to make unforgettable memories aboard this stunning sailing boat—yes, it even has a bathroom for maximum comfort! Explore the best of Key West’s natural beauty, from breathtaking views above the waves to hidden wonders below. Whether you join us for a morning or afternoon ½ day escape or treat yourself to a full-day adventure with a delicious buffet lunch, one thing’s for sure—you’re in for an incredible time!

5-Star Resort (check-in)

After a quick and easy check-in, you’ll embark on your beautiful schooner boat.

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15 Minutes (approx.) • Instruction Included • Equipment Included

Sailing

It's time to hit the pristine waters of Key West. Our shallow-draft schooners can reach places other boats can’t—and that’s exactly where we’ll take you. As we sail through the stunning waters of Key West, kick back or sunbathe under our canopy and enjoy the views. The beauty of the Florida Keys will surround you, and you might even spot a dolphin or two along the way!

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45 Minutes (approx.)

Key West National Wildlife Refuge

The Key West National Wildlife Refuge – known to locals as the Backcountry – was among the first refuges established in North America and, sadly, is the last remaining example of an untouched marine ecosystem in Florida. Accessible only by boat, we carefully treat the vital Backcountry with the utmost respect and take great pride in educating our guests about the area. Our schooners can navigate through shallow water flats and sandbars, winding channels, and mangrove islands, providing you with world-class experiences without causing distress to the ecosystem.

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Kayaking

The stealth and agility of the kayak will allow you to spot exotic birds, small invertebrates, tropical fish, rays, sharks, sport fish, and maybe even a sea turtle. Later, put on your mask and snorkel to explore the amazing underwater world of beautiful corals, lush sponge gardens, colorful tropical fish, and incredible marine life of all varieties.

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60 Minutes (approx.) • Instruction & Equipment Included • No Experience Necessary

Key West Sunset at Sea

Exclusive to the afternoon trip, see the beautiful Key West sunset from the water. It’s truly a spectacular way to end the day.

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30 Minutes (approx.) • Perfect Photo Opportunity

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Sample Menu

FULL-DAY TRIP Buffet lunch, snacks and beverages

  • Make your own sandwiches Assorted breads, deli meats, cheese, and condiments
  • Pasta salad & tuna salad
  • The crew's signature curried chicken salad
  • Peanut butter & jelly
  • Crudités with hummus
  • Fresh fruit
  • Chips & salsa
  • Potato chips
  • Cookies
  • Beer, wine, soft drinks and bottled water Alcohol served after water activities (must be 21)

•—•

HALF DAY TRIP Snacks and beverages

  • Crudités with hummus
  • Chips & salsa
  • Fresh fruit
  • Cookies
  • Beer, wine, soft drinks and bottled water Alcohol served after water activities (must be 21)

•—•

If you have any specific dietary restrictions or follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, please inform us by mentioning it in the "booking notes" section when making your reservation. The crew will do their best to provide suitable alternatives whenever possible. You are also welcome to bring your own food aboard.

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • This activity is 2 blocks from the cruise ship port
  • Alcohol will be served after activities are complete
  • Travelers should be comfortable in water with a life jacket
  • Vessel has a toilet
  • Not wheelchair accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

(25)

Q: Is there a weight limit for kayaking?

A: Our tandem kayaks have a combined weight limit of 500 pounds. We encourage guests to consider their abilities when planning their kayaking adventures. Our crew can assist guests with loading into the kayaks, but some physical fitness is required.  Read more May 2024

Cancellation Policy

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

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-277557

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.93
2,254 reviews

Average 4.93 out of 5 stars based on 2,254 traveler reviews collected by Tours of Key West and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
2,118
4 stars
109
3 stars
27
2 stars
0
1 star
0

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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 40 (21.19) days in advance.

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Cancellation Policy

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100% refund
No refund

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

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the activity start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the activity start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the activity local time (EDT).
  • This activity requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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