Key West Dolphin & Snorkel Sunset Cruise

Most Key West visitors have to choose between a dolphin trip, a snorkel trip and a sunset cruise. This one covers all three in a single afternoon. It works especially well for families, couples on a short stay, and first-time snorkelers who want a gentle introduction rather than a long day at sea.

After leaving the historic seaport, your guide gives a quick rundown of the route and points out sights along the way. The boat then heads to the dolphins' regular feeding and play areas. The local bottlenose dolphins stay in these waters year-round, and the crew knows where they usually gather. You may see a pod cruising together, a mother and calf surfacing side by side, or a curious dolphin riding the boat's wake. The boat keeps a respectful distance and lets the dolphins decide how close they come.

Next, you'll cruise out to a string of small islands west of Key West, inside a protected marine area where the water is often calm, clear and shallow. The crew hands out new snorkel gear and life jackets, explains how everything works and stays nearby while you're in the water. Under the surface, look for brain and star coral, sea fans, parrotfish, sergeant majors and snapper. If you're lucky, you might spot a green sea turtle grazing or a spotted eagle ray gliding across the sand.

Once everyone is back on board, the drinks start flowing: draft beer and wine for guests 21 and over, and soft drinks for everyone. As the boat turns back toward the island, the sun drops toward the horizon and the sky shifts through orange, pink and purple. It's an easy, unhurried end to an active afternoon.

• Most parking near the seaport is in paid lots, garages or metered street spaces, and it fills up in the late afternoon.
• This tour isn't suitable for everyone. It isn't wheelchair accessible and isn't recommended for guests with limited mobility. Guests with heart problems or other serious medical conditions shouldn't snorkel.
• Bring a passport or government-issued photo ID. You'll need it at check-in and to be served alcohol.
• Dolphin sightings are likely but not guaranteed. These are wild animals, and the crew finds them by knowing their habits, not by feeding or attracting them.
• Conditions vary. Wind, tides and clouds affect water clarity and the sunset view, and the snorkel site depends on the captain's judgment on the day.
• Pack smart. Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, a hat, reef-safe sunscreen and dry clothes. The breeze on the ride home can feel cool once you're wet.
• Sunset times shift by season. In Key West, sunset ranges from roughly 5:45 p.m. in late fall to about 8:20 p.m. in early summer, so departure times change with it.
• Plan ahead if you get seasick. Take medication before you board, and keep your eyes on the horizon during the ride.
• Defog your mask. If you're new to snorkeling, rub a drop of defog solution or baby shampoo inside your mask before getting in. It's the simplest way to see clearly underwater.