Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Half-Day Snorkel Trip on Reefs in the Florida Keys

• Half-Day Trip from Key West with Kayaking, Snorkeling & Sunset

• Key Largo Two Reef Snorkel Tour—All Snorkel Equipment Included

• Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Tour—Eco Adventure

• Key West Full-Day Ocean Adventure: Kayak, Snorkel, Sail

There’s no entrance fee to visit the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, but many visitors choose to explore the vast outdoor area on a tour. Small-group boat tours are usually upwards of US$60, whereas half-day snorkeling adventures start at around US$75, and dolphin-watching trips cost from US$65.

Yes, it's absolutely worth visiting the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. This protected marine area is known for clear water, coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it one of the best spots in the Florida Keys for diving, snorkeling, or wildlife spotting. Since the sanctuary spans a long stretch of the coastline, guided boat tours and snorkeling trips are a great shortcut to the best areas to visit, and you can also learn about local marine life from your guide.

Per one customer who booked the Half-Day Trip from Key West with Kayaking, Snorkeling & Sunset, "We had an amazing half-day adventure on the water with Captain Mary and Bible! From sailing to snorkeling to kayaking, every moment was packed with fun, relaxation, and just the right amount of adventure. What really made the experience special was how much we learned along the way—everything from sailing to the history of Key West, plus insights into the stunning natural habitats we explored. It felt like the perfect mix of education and enjoyment. If you're looking to get out on the water and make unforgettable memories, don't miss a trip with Danger Charters—you'll be so glad you did!"

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary has no physical address, as it’s entirely off-land. It is one of 15 marine protected areas under NOAA’s protection and includes all of the water south of Miami, which ends at Dry Tortugas National Park. Once you enter the Florida Keys, the water is the marine sanctuary.

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is home to hundreds of different fish species, birds, reptiles, and mammals. The most common jellyfish species include cannonball jelly and Portuguese man o’ war. Seven species of sea turtles, manatees, dolphins, sharks, and the invasive lionfish are also found there.

You can boat privately into the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary or hire a boat charter to take you through the waters. The Marine Sanctuary does not provide guided tours; however, you can take a self-guided tour of the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center and ask the staff questions.

Yes, there are designated areas where swimming and recreational activities like boating and diving. Anyone venturing into the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary on a private vessel should know the marine zones. These areas protect specific habitats and limit interaction between anglers, divers, and recreational or commercial visitors.

You cannot book a boat tour or charter through the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary; however, you can book a private charter from any third-party company in the Florida Keys. The Marine Sanctuary recommends booking a charter with a Blue Star operator to ensure coral reefs are protected.

Yes, visitors are allowed to bring their own snorkeling gear and diving gear to explore the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The Marine Sanctuary does not provide any rental services. Remember that all boats and equipment must abide by all relevant laws, including the regulations for each marine zone.

There are tons of fun things to do when you're done visiting the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Key West:

• Mallory Square

• Southernmost Point of the Continental USA

• Fort Zachary Taylor

• Edward B. Knight Pier

• Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Key West.