If you're coming to Key West, you have to plan at least one day to enjoy the water and the world below. Especially if you've never been in open water before, a trip to this exquisite living coral reef warrants a plunge. Even if you're not ready for deep diving and are just looking for a more relaxed experience close to the surface, you can make some underwater memories with a Key West snorkel adventure.
How Do I Get Started?
The best place to enjoy a Key West snorkel is in the shallow waters off the coral reef. Many charter boats leave the Key West dock for trips out to the reef. You'll have choices when it comes to choosing a boat. Some take only small groups and include things like dolphin watching while others are party boats complete with a meal. Choose the charter that best fits your Key West snorkel needs.
Most of the charter boats will have all the equipment you need, however, for the best Key West snorkel experience, you may want to select your own mask and bring it along. Your mask is probably the most important piece of gear and you want to be sure that yours fits well. If you've never snorkeled before, most charters will also offer you a brief instructional class. Your Key West snorkel will be much more enjoyable if you know what you're doing when you hit the water.
To add to the fun, you may want to do a little research before your trip. Get a book from the library or check the internet for pictures of the different fish, coral, and sea life you may see in the region. Being able to identify what you see is half the fun.
What Will I See When I Go Snorkeling in Key West?
Key West snorkel trips offer good visibility and comfortable water temperatures. Snorkeling Key West, you will see beautiful corals, sea sponge gardens, and fantastic marine life. There are hundreds of species of tropical fish, including such beauties as sergeant major, spotted damselfish, porcupine fish, queen angelfish, and trunkfish. You may also spot stingray, crabs, turtles, and other interesting creatures of the deep.
Tips And Knowledge
While snorkeling, it's important to preserve the pristine beauty of the coral reef and surrounding areas. Be very careful when swimming through this delicate ecosystem. Human disturbance could very easily upset the balance of this system. Please do not touch the coral or turn over rocks. Be careful not to leave anything behind and remember that everything in these protected areas must stay there.
That's not to say you can't take home a souvenir of your Key West snorkel trip. Bring an underwater camera to document all of your fantastic discoveries and experiences. In the waters snorkeling in Key West, you will have a trip to remember for a long time to come.
