While exploring dolphin watching options in Key West, several standout tours deserve attention. The Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Cruise tops our list for its intimate approach and knowledgeable guides ($89.95). The Wild Dolphin Sail impresses with its eco-conscious practices and guaranteed sightings ($94). For a sophisticated evening experience, the Sunset Sail combines wildlife viewing with wine and tapas ($124). Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Small Group Viewing Tour ($64.95), which offers excellent value without sacrificing quality.
We particularly love the Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Cruise for its perfect balance of education and entertainment, plus its consistently high success rate for dolphin sightings.
Let’s explore our recommended dolphin watching experiences in Key West.
Good To Know
- The Key West Wild Dolphin Sail offers a personalized experience with a 4.6-star rating and 423 reviews, making it a top choice for dolphin watching.
- The Dolphin Watch Sunset Sail provides a premium experience with wine, tapas, and scenic sunset views, receiving a 90% recommendation rate.
- The Small Group Dolphin Viewing Tour with a maximum of 16 travelers focuses on an eco-friendly and personalized experience.
- The Key West Dolphin & Snorkel Experience offers family-friendly pricing, starting at $64.95, and includes both dolphin watching and snorkeling.
- The tours generally feature high ratings, ranging from 4.4 to 4.7 stars, with positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable and friendly crew members.
Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Cruise
The Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Cruise offers an eco-adventure that allows visitors to experience the natural wonders of the Florida Keys.
With a 4.7-star rating from over 1,000 reviews, this tour is highly recommended by 92% of travelers.
The experience includes watching dolphins in their natural habitat and snorkeling at the Key West National Wildlife Refuge, where guests can observe a variety of marine life.
The catamaran features a large sundeck and shaded lounge area, and the tour includes snorkeling equipment, soft drinks, and complimentary beer and wine.
Guests must know how to swim to participate in the snorkeling activity, which has received mixed feedback from past travelers.
Read our full review: Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Cruise Review
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Key West Wild Dolphin Sail and Shallow-Water Snorkel
Embarking on the Key West Wild Dolphin Sail and Shallow-Water Snorkel is an exceptional eco-adventure that allows visitors to enjoy the natural wonders of the Florida Keys.
Aboard the 14-passenger catamaran Echo, guests can observe wild dolphins in their natural habitat and explore vibrant coral reefs and shipwrecks through guided snorkeling.
The tour includes high-quality snorkel gear, refreshments, and a variety of alcoholic beverages for those 21 and over.
With a 4.6-star rating from 423 reviews, this activity promises a personalized and unforgettable experience.
Travelers recommend booking directly with the tour company for the best experience.
Read our full review: Key West Wild Dolphin Sail and Shallow-Water Snorkel Review
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Key West Dolphin Watch Sunset Sail With Premium Wine, and Tapas Pairings
For a truly immersive Key West experience, the Key West Dolphin Watch Sunset Sail With Premium Wine, and Tapas Pairings offers an unforgettable way to witness the natural beauty of the Florida Keys.
Featuring a 90% recommendation rate, this 4.6-star rated tour takes guests on a relaxing sunset sail with the chance to spot dolphins. Travelers enjoy premium wine, beer, and champagne, along with a chef’s selection of tapas.
Though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and near public transportation. While some note limited food variety, most praise the friendly crew and stunning sunset views.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour is an excellent option for couples and friends seeking a memorable Key West adventure.
Read our full review: Key West Dolphin Watch Sunset Sail With Premium Wine, and Tapas Pairings Review
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Key West Small Group Dolphin Viewing & Snorkeling Tour
Why not experience a unique dolphin watching and snorkeling adventure in Key West?
The Key West Small Group Dolphin Viewing & Snorkeling Tour offers a personalized experience aboard a small electric catamaran. Led by educated guides, you’ll have the chance to spot dolphins and explore the vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling.
The tour includes free organic snacks, bottled water, and all necessary equipment. With a maximum of 16 travelers, you’ll enjoy a comfortable and interactive outing.
Guests have praised the knowledgeable guides and the frequent wildlife sightings. This eco-friendly tour is a great way to learn about the marine ecosystem of Key West.
Read our full review: Key West Small Group Dolphin Viewing & Snorkeling Tour Review
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The Key West Dolphin & Snorkel Experience
The Key West Dolphin & Snorkel Experience offers travelers a chance to witness the vibrant marine life of the Florida Keys.
This combination tour includes a dolphin watching cruise, snorkeling adventure, and sunset views. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 246 reviews, it’s an ideal excursion for those short on time.
The tour provides snorkeling equipment and life jackets for beginners, and includes drinks and gratuity. While some reviewers noted overcrowding and insufficient seating, the crew, including Captain Madison, Ellen, Milan, Dante, and Zach, received praise for their professionalism and support.
With a starting price of $64.95 per person, this family-friendly tour is a great way to explore the natural wonders of Key West.
Read our full review: The Key West Dolphin & Snorkel Experience Review
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Epic Sandbar Safari With Dolphin Playground Encounter In Key West
Embark on an epic adventure with the Epic Sandbar Safari in Key West, offering travelers a chance to enjoy the region’s stunning natural beauty and encounter playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
With a maximum of 50 travelers per trip, this highly-rated tour provides an intimate experience swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on a secluded sandbar.
Enjoy a delectable lunch menu featuring fresh local cuisine and unlimited beverages. Expert guides share insights on the local ecosystem and wildlife.
While wheelchair accessibility is limited, the tour is stroller-friendly and accommodates service animals.
Positive reviews highlight the beautiful scenery, professional crew, and unforgettable dolphin sightings.
Read our full review: Epic Sandbar Safari With Dolphin Playground Encounter In Key West Review
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Sunset Sail & Dolphin Search With Honest Eco
Although the Epic Sandbar Safari offers an immersive dolphin encounter, the Sunset Sail & Dolphin Search with Honest Eco provides a more intimate and personalized experience for up to 20 travelers.
Priced from $124 per person, this 2-in-1 tour combines dolphin watching with a scenic sunset sail in Key West. Guests can enjoy fresh organic snacks, bottled water, and BYOB as they search for dolphins and learn about marine life.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation. Feedback suggests some sailing equipment issues, but the crew prioritizes guest enjoyment.
Read our full review: Sunset Sail & Dolphin Search With Honest Eco Review
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Key West: Dolphin Watching Cruise & Snorkeling Unlimited Beer & Soda
Discover the marine wonders of Key West on this captivating Dolphin Watching Cruise and Snorkeling tour. Operated by Attractions4us LLC, this 5-hour adventure takes you to spot dolphins and explore the underwater world.
For $89.99 per person, you’ll enjoy unlimited beer and soda while viewing a mother-calf dolphin pair and other marine life. The moderate fitness level required is worth it for the snorkeling experience, despite weather occasionally affecting visibility.
With a maximum group size of 25, this tour offers a less crowded encounter. While the operator is praised for their knowledgeable crew, it’s best to check the forecast before booking for the optimal experience.
Read our full review: Key West: Dolphin Watching Cruise & Snorkeling Unlimited Beer & Soda Review
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Dolphin Morning Watching & Snorkeling Open Bar 1 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Fun
Travelers can expect an exhilarating day exploring the waters and attractions of Key West on this Dolphin Morning Watching & Snorkeling Open Bar 1 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Fun tour.
The tour includes a dolphin watching excursion, snorkeling in one of the world’s largest reefs, and a 1-day pass on the Conch Train for self-guided exploration of local landmarks like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and Key West Lighthouse.
Guests can also visit the Sails and Rails Museum for a dose of history.
With an open bar and maximum capacity of 80 travelers, this tour provides a fun and relaxing way to experience the best of Key West.
Read our full review: Dolphin Morning Watching & Snorkeling Open Bar 1 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Fun Review
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Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling in Key West With Sunset Dinner Cruise and Open Bar
For an unforgettable day in Key West, this Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling with Sunset Dinner Cruise and Open Bar experience offers a diverse array of activities.
Participants can snorkel at one of North America’s only living coral reefs, spot playful dolphins, and enjoy a sunset dinner cruise with an unlimited open bar. The 3-hour tour departs at 11 AM from the Key West Historic Seaport.
While some travelers were pleased with the knowledgeable crew and stunning views, others reported issues with cancellations and service quality.
With a mixed review rating of 3.3, this activity may be best suited for those primarily interested in the snorkeling and dolphin watching aspects, rather than the dinner cruise.
Read our full review: Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling in Key West With Sunset Dinner Cruise and Open Bar Review
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The Sum Up
Key West offers a variety of dolphin watching and snorkeling tours. Visitors can choose from cruises with premium wine and tapas pairings, small group tours, or sunset sails. Many tours also include opportunities to snorkel and enjoy open bars. With so many options, there’s sure to be a Key West dolphin watching experience that suits any traveler’s preferences.