A black and white image of a wave on a white background.

Snorkel & Explore Egmont Key – Hidden Ruins & Marine Life Adventure

A black and white drawing of a wave on a white background.
People in an old jail cell
People playing in the shallow waters
An old stone light house
People snorkeling near ruins

Overview

If you love being in the water and discovering new places, this adventure is for you! Egmont Key is a hidden gem, home to crystal-clear waters, colorful marine life, and the sunken ruins of an old fort waiting to be explored.


This tour can be tailored to your adventure style. Choose to dive deep into the island’s history, exploring its historic ruins and untouched beauty, or opt for a more water-focused experience—snorkeling among tropical fish, gliding over the sunken fort, and soaking in the stunning surroundings. Prefer a mix of both? Your captain will guide the way, ensuring you get the perfect balance of exploration and underwater adventure.


No matter how you experience Egmont Key, you’ll be immersed in a world of history, marine life, and unforgettable views. Ready to explore? Let’s go!

Highlights

Snorkel Sunken Ruins & Explore Historic Fort Dade:  For those comfortable in the water, snorkeling at Egmont Key offers a one-of-a-kind experience—glide over the remains of Battery Burchsted, where history and marine life collide beneath the waves. Afterward, step ashore to explore the cobblestone streets of Fort Dade, a once-thriving 1800s military outpost, and uncover the island’s fascinating past.


Encounter Unique Wildlife in a Protected Refuge: As a designated wildlife sanctuary, Egmont Key is home to sea turtles, gopher tortoises, ospreys, and bald eagles. While snorkeling, expect to see an array of tropical fish in their natural habitat—but be prepared for deeper water and mild currents, making this ideal for experienced snorkelers.


Secluded Beaches & Crystal-Clear Waters: With pristine, shell-covered beaches and calm, turquoise waters, Egmont Key is a remote paradise. Whether you’re snorkeling, swimming, or relaxing onshore, this adventure is perfect for those who love to explore beyond the basics and are confident in the water.


Comfortable, Private Boat Experience: Enjoy a stress-free ride on our spacious, private boat, designed for comfort with plenty of shade and an onboard restroom. This isn’t a beginner’s snorkeling tour—it’s an adventure tailored for those ready to dive deeper into one of Florida’s most breathtaking island experiences.

★★★★★

"Our family of 4 had a great time! We did the 4-hour snorkel trip and loved every moment. We felt safe and very comfortable with Captain Bruce. We got to see dolphins on our way to and from Egmont Key. We also had a relaxing time at the sandbar. Highly recommend!"— Courtney K.

★★★★★

"Had a wonderful experience. Great tour of the island, lots of sandbars to see. We saw lots of dolphins, sea urchins, crabs, shells, and sand dollars. Bruce was very nice and knowledgeable on any questions we had. Would definitely book again! Very nice boat."— Jessica S.​

★★★★★

"My husband and I used Captain Bruce to tour Egmont Key and go snorkeling. We enjoyed his knowledge and his great personality. Really made our experience amazing."— Olivia W.

★★★★★

"Great tour for six of us. Saw dolphins and the tour was tailored to suit us with snorkeling and island walks. Captain Bruce was great and got us back just in time before a storm hit. Really comfortable boat for six and highly recommended."— Alistair G.

★★★★★

"Egmont Key was absolutely magical! Within minutes of stepping onto the island, we saw several gopher tortoises just roaming freely, completely unbothered by us. We also saw dolphins on the boat ride over and a bald eagle soaring overhead. If you love nature and wildlife, this tour is a must!"— Derek S.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What does “private tour” mean?

    A private tour means your group has the entire boat to yourselves—no sharing with strangers! Captain Bruce tailors the experience to your interests, whether that’s more time watching dolphins, exploring hidden sandbars, or simply relaxing on the water at your own pace.

  • Do I need snorkeling experience for this tour?

    Yes, this tour is best suited for those who have snorkeled before and are comfortable in the water. The snorkeling spots around Egmont Key feature deeper water, mild currents, and sunken ruins, making it an incredible experience for those who already know how to use a snorkel and feel at ease swimming. If you're brand new to snorkeling, we recommend practicing in shallow, calm water before joining this adventure to ensure you have the best experience possible!

  • Can we bring our own cooler and adult beverages?

    Yes! You’re welcome to bring snacks, drinks, and even adult beverages to enjoy during your cruise. We just ask that you avoid red wine or anything that could stain the boat’s carpet or seats.

  • What should we bring?

    To make the most of your tour, we recommend bringing:

    • Polarized sunglasses (to reduce glare and spot wildlife more easily)
    • Non-spray sunscreen (to keep the boat clean and safe)
    • Water shoes & towels (especially if you plan to get in the water)
    • Food & drinks (a small cooler is fine!)
    • A hat & light jacket (for sun protection or cooler evening breezes)
    • A camera or phone (you won’t want to miss the photo-worthy moments!)
    • Your sense of adventure!

  • I have a group of 7. Can we just pay for an extra person?

    Due to Coast Guard regulations, our boat is strictly limited to 6 passengers per trip—no exceptions. If you have a larger group, please contact us to explore alternative options.

  • I have a child under 3—do they count toward the 6-person limit?

    Yes, every passenger, regardless of age, counts toward the 6-person limit under Coast Guard regulations—even infants.

  • Is this tour safe for kids and older adults?

    This tour is great for anyone who is comfortable snorkeling and enjoys being in the water. The snorkeling areas around Egmont Key have deeper water and mild currents, so it’s best for those who feel confident using a mask and snorkel. Our boat is stable and spacious, with plenty of shade and an onboard restroom to keep everyone comfortable. Even if some in your group prefer to stay on the boat, they can still enjoy the beautiful scenery, watch for marine life, and relax while others explore the underwater world.

  • What happens if the weather is bad?

    Let’s be honest—Captain Bruce isn’t a fan of bad weather either! If the conditions aren’t safe or enjoyable, we won’t head out. In the event of an operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you’ll receive a full refund or credit—no hassle, no worries. We’ll do our best to reschedule if you’d like, but if Mother Nature isn’t cooperating, we’ve got you covered!

  • I get seasick easily—will this be a problem?

    We totally get it—no one wants to spend their dolphin adventure feeling queasy! The good news? We don’t head out into the open ocean. Our route stays within the calm, protected waters of the intercoastal waterway, where the ride is smooth and easy. Plus, if the waves are acting up, we’re not heading out either—our captain prefers a relaxing cruise over a bumpy ride! If you’re still a little unsure, the shaded open-air seating and fresh sea breeze help most guests feel completely comfortable. Many of our visitors who worry about seasickness end up having no issues at all!

Price: $550 per private charter

Ages:  All ages welcome. Up to 6 passengers.

Duration:  4 hours