ShoreTrips says...

The waters surrounding the Florida Keys are home to the only living coral barrier reef in North America, with thousands of acres of seagrasses and hundreds of miles of mangrove-fringed shoreline. It is often a difficult decision whether to explore nature's beauty above the water or below. Now you can experience both the wildlife of the mangroves by kayak and the underwater beauty by snorkel...the best of both worlds!

Our tour begins with an authentic sailing experience from Key West’s Historic Seaport. Channel your inner sailor and help hoist the sails or take a turn at the wheel of this sailing schooner.

As we make our way to the uninhabited mangrove islands of the Key West National Wildlife Refuge keep a close eye on the water for sea turtles, dolphins, even manta rays that frequent these waters.

The design of the schooner allows our captain to get close to the mangroves before anchoring. Our friendly, experienced crew will help everyone into their kayak. Paddling instructions will be provided for those new to the activity but rest assured even novices will find easy paddling in the shallow, calm waters of the mangroves. With our guide leading the way we will travel safari-style through some of the most interesting portions of this peninsula where the mangroves can be red, white or black. We will learn about the importance of the mangroves to the ecosystem and why they are known as the "nurseries of the sea". Teeming with life, on any given day you might see blue herons, bald eagles, ospreys, frigates and roseate spoonbills. Looking down into the water might reveal sea turtles, dolphins, manta rays and colorful fish.

Perhaps you'd like a closer look at the life beneath your kayak. Again, your crew will instruct any new snorkelers and provide sanitized equipment for all. Don your snorkel gear and quietly explore the clear warm water. You'll be dazzled by the sponge garden, tropical fish and marine life that surrounds you.

After snorkeling and washing off the salt in our freshwater shower, feel free to relax in the sun or grab a seat in the shade under our covered deck. Soon a delicious buffet lunch of shrimp, fried chicken, deli meats, cheeses, breads, side salads and beverages will be served.

During the return sail, enjoy cold soft drinks, beer, wine and tropical sangria, as well as freshly made chocolate chip cookies, chips and dip and seasonal fruit.

As our captain points the schooner back toward Key West, we will take in the incredible views as we make our way back to shore.