Private John Pennekamp State Park Snorkel Tour

No, 6 is the maximum (regardless of age, size or weight).

Unlike large tour operators, you won't be sharing your trip with strangers. When you charter our boat, it is reserved just for you and those in your party in addition to your licensed captain.

Yes. All guests who are entering the water do need to know how to swim.

All trips include a spacious cooler with ice & bottled water. Complimentary reef-safe sunscreen & towels. 

*A personal swim guide will enter the water and lead your tour if you wish.

We supply all snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins and flotation devices).

Yes. We have a very spacious built-in cooler. If you bring alcoholic beverages, for your safety we allow these to be consumed after snorkeling activities are complete. We appreciate guests not bringing red wine aboard as it has a tendency to stain the interior of the boat.

Our boat is strategically located only a short distance from the reef. This allows our guests adequate time to truly experience the reef with approximately 1.5 hours of actual time in the water.

Yes. All crew have been vaccinated.

All gear is sanitized before each trip.

No. However, there are restroom facilities available to use at our marina.

We love "furry" friends! For their safety, we do not allow animals nor service animals on our vessel. Zoomies Pet Villas in Key Largo has very reasonable rates.

When snorkeling at Key Largo’s reefs, you can expect to see an incredible variety of marine life in the clear, warm waters of the Florida Keys. Common sightings include:

• Colorful Reef Fish: Sergeant majors, parrotfish, damselfish, wrasses, and angelfish swim among the coral heads.
• Tropical Species: Blue tangs, grunts, squirrelfish, and butterflyfish are abundant, especially around coral formations.
• Coral Formations: Stunning brain coral, elkhorn coral, and staghorn coral provide shelter for countless species.
• Crustaceans: Lobsters, crabs, and shrimp hide in crevices, especially in quieter reef areas.
• Sea Turtles: Green and loggerhead turtles occasionally glide through shallow reef areas or feed on sea grass nearby.
• Small Rays: Southern stingrays and spotted eagle rays can sometimes be seen gliding along sandy bottoms.
• Moray Eels: Often spotted peeking from coral crevices, these eels are shy but fascinating.
• Occasional Larger Species: Nurse sharks and tarpon are sometimes visible in deeper areas or near reef drop-offs.

Key Largo is part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, so the reefs are protected, making them vibrant and full of life—perfect for snorkelers of all experience levels.

Common sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs, as the particles are small enough to be absorbed by corals, causing toxicity and coral bleaching. Reef-friendly sunscreens are formulated without these harmful chemicals. Reef-SAFE sunscreens go a step further by using non-nano particles, which are too large for corals to ingest, helping to preserve marine ecosystems. 

Please avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Consider wearing sun-protective clothing, like long-sleeve rash guards, as an alternative to sunscreen. If you choose a mineral-based sunscreen, ensure it is labeled ‘non-nano.’

You can snorkel with a beard or mustache but it can prevent a tight seal between the mask and your face, which may cause water to leak in. It is often recommended to shave at least your mustache before diving. If you’d prefer not to shave your mustache, please bring petroleum jelly or chapstick with you. If you coat your mustache in that chapstick or jelly, it may be able to seal and prevent water from getting in.

Glasses cannot be worn while snorkeling, but contacts are perfectly fine and recommended for the best experience. Prescription masks are not available for rent, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Additionally, there is an automatic correction effect that occurs underwater due to light refraction, making things appear clearer, but contacts or a personal prescription mask will provide the best visibility.

TripOutside recommends knowing how to swim before snorkeling, but participation is ultimately up to you and the tour operator's discretion.

• Check ocean conditions and only snorkel at lifeguarded beaches. The chance of rescue is much higher with trained lifeguards present.
• Never snorkel alone. Always bring a buddy. Beginners should consider booking a guided tour.
• Rest after flying. Flying can dehydrate and exhaust you—give your body at least a day to acclimate before snorkeling.
• Test your gear on land or in a pool first. Make sure your mask fits snugly, you can breathe through the snorkel, and you know how to clear water if needed.
• Practice with fins. You should be able to scissor kick while swimming. Avoid doggie paddling—it won’t get you far.
• Don’t wear fins on land. Walk into the water, get past the waves, then put your fins on. Remove them before exiting.
• Take it slow. Breathe calmly, relax, and avoid overexertion to keep your heart rate low.
• Know your limits. If you’re feeling tired, anxious, or unsure about conditions, skip the snorkel session. Panic in the water is dangerous.
• Stay aware of currents and tides. Even experienced swimmers can get pulled out. Know how to identify rip currents and how to escape them (swim parallel to shore).