It seems just about everyone is "going green" these days. Have you ever thought about going on a green vacation? Believe it or not, you can do it here in Key West. Many Key West snorkeling and boat tours have been maximizing exposure to oceanic environments while minimizing human effects for years. Learn about this delicate ecosystem and the importance of the oceans to our earth while exploring a whole new world under the sea with Key West snorkeling.
Why A Green Vacation?
You're probably more conscious of what you recycle these days, planning more energy efficient ways to travel, and are most likely buying products that are biodegradable. With the new push for green living, there is no reason your green living has to take a vacation just because you are! In fact, with a little extra planning, you can have eco-friendly fun and learn a little something in the process.
There are several Key West snorkeling tour operators and cruise captains who have focused on just that -- exposing visitors to the unique ecological conditions off the shores of Key West while delicately venturing in and out. You'll want to plan ahead when you come to Key West. Snorkeling, dolphin watching and pleasure cruises featured in our "Eco Tours" section.
You'll Be Seeing Green, Exploring The Deep Blue Sea Key West Snorkeling
Under wind power, you'll leave the coast of Key West. Snorkeling the largest living coral reef in the continental United States will give you a new appreciation for life under the sea. The reef, which runs about seven miles off shore, boasts some of the most amazing sea life in the area. The underwater area is a delicate garden system ripe with tropical fish.
You may catch a glimpse of a sea turtle or get to examine a starfish up close. All of this wonderful nature is yours to explore when you go Key West snorkeling. Because of their fragile nature, you're asked to simply visit the reef as an observer, not touching, just looking. By doing your part to protect the reef, it will continue doing its job providing a habitat for a multitude of sea creatures.
Some of the Key West eco tours also offer the chance to observe dolphins in their natural environment, which is another amazing experience. Extremely social creatures, the dolphins may be as excited to see the way you live as you are to see their habits. It's not unusual for a pod of dolphins to greet one of our tour boats and dive and play off the bow, providing quite a show.
Beyond Key West Snorkeling And Tours
Observing the fantastic ocean habitat while Key West snorkeling is just the beginning of what you'll experience on an eco-friendly vacation. Back on land, speak with your Key West inn to find out if they use organic products, compost waste, or have practices to limit water usage.
Caring for our Key West community while vacationing is another way you can help. Look for opportunities to recycle and please handle this gorgeous island with care. Even patronizing local artists is a way to preserve the community that we've established here in Key West.
Looking for other great ecotourism hot spots? Think about fishing in Cabo or a Bahamas dolphin encounter. Learn to appreciate this great big world, especially its ocean splendor!
