Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco-Tour: Sail, Snorkel & Kayak
4.5
Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco-Tour: Sail, Snorkel & Kayak
By Schooner Appledore
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About
Travel into the Gulf of Mexico aboard a two-mast wooden schooner with this eco-tour out into the waters. You'll get the chance to try out steering the vessel if you so choose, or you can sit back and relax as you head through crystalline waters. You'll eventually stop at mangrove islands for a day of sea kayaking and snorkeling, with a buffet lunch on board, before returning to Key West.
Ages 0-99, max of 20 per group
Duration: 5h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
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Highlights
- Travel aboard a wooden schooner and get the chance to try your hand at the wheel
- A professional guide will escort you out to sea
- Buffet lunch is included
- Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks are served on board, free of charge
- Professional guide
- All equipment
- Gourmet lunch and afternoon snacks made by our own in-house catering team
- Unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks
What's not included- Gratuities
- Start:
- 205 Elizabeth St, Key West, FL 33040, USALocated along the Harbor Walk at the end of Elizabeth Street, between Schooner Wharf Bar and the Conch Republic Seafood Company on the byway colloquially known as Lazy Way Lane.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Infants must sit on laps
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3800P12- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Vegetarian option is available. Must notify operator 72 hours prior ro departure.
- Please advise of any specific dietary requirements 72 hours prior to departure.
- In order to expedite the check-in process, please provide lead traveler's e-mail address in the 'special requirement' section during check-out.
- To re-board the schooner after snorkeling and kayaking, you are required to climb aboard a platform secured to the boat just below the waterline, from there you climb a ladder back aboard the schooner.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- Is there a restroom onboard for the Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco-Tour?
- Yes, each of our ships is equipped with a restroom to maximize your comfort. In addition, each of the catamarans has a freshwater rinse.Answered Feb 2021
- What do I need to bring with me for the Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco-Tour?
- Bring along your towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, bathing suit, and camera. If you want to drink alcoholic beverages on your tour, remember your photo I.D. to show you are at least 21 years old.Answered Feb 2021
- Should I wear my swimsuit or change on the boat for the Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco-Tour?
- It is easier to wear your suit to the tour. There aren’t any changing facilities at our office. However, if you do need to change after boarding, there is a very small changing area in the restroom on board.Answered Feb 2021
- Is there parking at the terminal for the Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco-Tour: Sail, Snorkel & Kayak?
- There is no parking at our office but you may unload passengers in front of our office. The most convenient city parking lot is at Margaret and Caroline Street with pay machines in the center of the lot.Answered Mar 2021
The tour operator has provided the following answers to customers’ questions.- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3800P12
Itinerary
- 205 Elizabeth St, Key West, FL 33040, USALocated along the Harbor Walk at the end of Elizabeth Street, between Schooner Wharf Bar and the Conch Republic Seafood Company on the byway colloquially known as Lazy Way Lane.
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- bjandjr710 contributionsGreat afternoon on the waterWhat an amazing afternoon! The weather was perfect; seas were calm. The crew, which was comprised of Captain Josh, Andy and Michael, were all very personable. They engaged with each of us and served very good beverages. We learned some history of the schooner as well as some of what is involved in keeping it ready for sailing.Written December 10, 2024
- megan M0 contributionsThis is a sunset experience you can't miss in Key West!Boarding the Appledore Star instantly feels magical. This isn't just any boat; it's a romantic, two-masted schooner, the last of its kind built with a unique oyster-dragging bugeye design. As we left the lively Historic Seaport, the crew set the sails against the stunning Key West backdrop. They invited us to get involved, from hoisting the sails to steering the ship. Sailing into the sunset, the wind in our hair—truly, there's no way to describe it. This is a sunset experience you can't miss in Key West!Written December 2, 2024
- zumbachick10 contributionsNice afternoon sailWe enjoyed sailing with the crew on Thanksgiving. The crew was friendly & knowledgeable. We had great conversations with the other passengers. It was a nice relaxing sail. The only negative I could add is that I prefer to drink margaritas & there was an up charge for it. They did have beer & wine available.Written December 2, 2024
- riciat_130 contributionsFamily fun in the sun!Awesome time with Captain Joshua, Michael and Elliott!! We had the best time ever and it was the perfect day to sail. The lady who helped up book the trip was also great. What a great crew and beautiful sailboat …we had a blast.Written November 29, 2024
- G7885CWjaimer0 contributionsA perfect ThanksgivingThe best time with the best boat and the best crew (Captain Josh, Michael, and Andy). A perfect way to spend Thanksgiving. Thank youWritten November 28, 2024
- 339guyg0 contributionsWould recommendAmazing experience! The view is spectacular and the ride is nice and chill Very interactive ride, great for everyone. Drinks are served immediately Staff was very nice (Andy, Michael and Josh) Great view of the islands! Nice food. Overall very nice and relaxing evening experience that fits everyoneWritten November 28, 2024
- lauriew2590 contributionsnice relaxing get away for a couple hoursWhat a wonderful night! We had a good strong breeze so sailing was also a breeze. It was not crowded at all The crew worked very hard serving drinks and high end snacks At the same time they had to man the sails and ship I highly recommend this tour and we are localsWritten November 18, 2024
- TomSparty0 contributionsGreat Time Must Do!What a great time. Captain Pablo and the crew were awesome, friendly, and extremely attentive. Very safety conscious as well.Written November 17, 2024
- bobhnet10 contributionsGreat sailing tripThe captain was great. Knowledgeable and made the experience memorable. Tge crew members were well trained and did a fantastic job. The excursion was relaxing and a great sailing experience. We will be coming back in the future.Written November 14, 2024
- Q5750QEbills0 contributionsFantastic voyageThe trip was amazing. The captain and crew were very friendly and professional with lots of knowledge. Would like to go again.Written November 7, 2024
- ashleysU5366EW0 contributionsFamily fun!Our family had an amazing experience! The crew was informative, kept our glasses full, and made sure we had a great time! We will definitely go on this experience again when we’re back in Key West!Written November 5, 2024
- Go075076813210 contributionsThe cruise that wasn'tWe booked this cruise because of the reviews and built our short vacation around it. Unfortunately, I cannot review the cruise because it was canceled due to winds... This was understandable but what was not is that they did not notify anyone booked for that day including the young lady who checked us in. She was as shocked as we were. Refunds and rescheduling was easy.Written November 1, 2024
- gtT7050WT0 contributionsAwesome nightAwesome Crew ( Brian and Thomas), sun set wasn’t the best but the winds where favorable to do some really cool sailing, and for a two man crew the drinks and hors d’oeuvres were flowing the entire trip , and only like a dozen people to the ship, not a big commercial party boat we will definitely be going back againWritten October 29, 2024
- josephsB4535SW0 contributionsMust do in KW!My father and I had an amazing time on board. Jason is an amazing caption with a vibrant personality! Great personalities and amazing lunch! We did the day cruise.Written October 22, 2024
- rjedi3430 contributionsAmazing views and friendly atmosphereFantastic! Captain and crew were extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Drinks and food was first rate. Highly recommendedWritten October 15, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
140 reviews
Excellent
122
Very good
5
Average
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Christina Y
6 contributions
Oct 2020 • Friends
Absolutely perfect day!! We snorkeled and kayaked and sailed. Russ and Ray catered to everyone’s needs and we’re so informative and fun. It was seriously an all around perfect experience.
Couldn’t have imagined it better!!
While kayaking through the mangroves Ray pointed out the Cassiopeia upside down jellyfish (our absolutely favorite!!) all the fish, birds and mangrove crabs and taught us so much.
Captain Russ knew his business with the ship and we were able to enjoy the choppy seas (choppy for the keys I guess- I thought it was pretty calm) with an amazing sailing experience.
Will be booking with them again for sure AND requesting them by name! Russ and Ray you rock.
Couldn’t have imagined it better!!
While kayaking through the mangroves Ray pointed out the Cassiopeia upside down jellyfish (our absolutely favorite!!) all the fish, birds and mangrove crabs and taught us so much.
Captain Russ knew his business with the ship and we were able to enjoy the choppy seas (choppy for the keys I guess- I thought it was pretty calm) with an amazing sailing experience.
Will be booking with them again for sure AND requesting them by name! Russ and Ray you rock.
Written October 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Steve A
4 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
Captain Russ, Maddy and Isaac were amazing!! We had such a memorable time! Maddy took us through the amazing Mangroves for the first half of our trip. Isaac aided in the snorkeling and Captain Russ kept conversations moving while sailing! The food and cocktails were amazing. Very hospitable crew! Couldn’t have asked for better! We will do this trip again and have already made plans with friends to do it next year! Keep up the good work fellas!! U were the best and we look forward to seeing u all next year! All aboard!!!
Written April 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anna
Munich, Germany10 contributions
We were lucky that this trip was not fully booked and the group consisted of 8 people plus crew, which made for a very relaxed atmosphere. Melissa at the check-in pavilion was professional and very friendly. Weather was nice, but the tides were low and only patches of wind came through, so Captain Joe had to keep the motor running while hauling up the sails nonetheless for that sailboat feeling (we could lend a hand if we wanted). Any person sailing would know that situation and we definitively made the best out of the wind. Snorkeling was beautiful, you could see lots of colorful fish & corals just beneath your fins. We felt safe at all times with Joe and Bradley who tended to the Schooner and helped getting on and off the boat’s platform. The open bar was great and lunch very good! While kayaking we were able to see lots of birds and paddle in between mangroves all the while Bradley told us interesting facts and answered our questions very knowledgeably. In summary an exceptional trip, would highly recommend!
Written September 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
carmen l
Blaine3 contributions
Mar 2020 • Family
I'm an ocean water, snorkeling junky. So the kayaking and snorkeling excursion was a perfect way to get on the water in the Keys. The highlights were the warm weather, color of the water, and mangrove education during kayaking. Also, my 12 yr old son capsized in waves caused by high winds and Eric was great at remaining calm, keeping my son calm, and rescuing all.
What could have been better....snorkeling. We didn't because the water visibility was low. But, that definitely was what I was looking most forward to. Instead, we got 45 minutes of reef education from Captain Jeff. Good info...but not what I paid $$ for. It also seemed Jeff and Eric had not worked long together as they didn't seem to be partners.
Last, my mother-in-law chose to stay on the boat during the kayaking portion. It was just her and Jeff. However, Jeff didn't speak to her. He went below deck and when he did come back up, he sat facing away from her and spent time on his phone.
The day was enjoyable but not worth the money when we couldn't snorkel and the partnership of the staff seemed lacking.
Shout out to Eric...he made the conversation interesting and his customer service was great!
What could have been better....snorkeling. We didn't because the water visibility was low. But, that definitely was what I was looking most forward to. Instead, we got 45 minutes of reef education from Captain Jeff. Good info...but not what I paid $$ for. It also seemed Jeff and Eric had not worked long together as they didn't seem to be partners.
Last, my mother-in-law chose to stay on the boat during the kayaking portion. It was just her and Jeff. However, Jeff didn't speak to her. He went below deck and when he did come back up, he sat facing away from her and spent time on his phone.
The day was enjoyable but not worth the money when we couldn't snorkel and the partnership of the staff seemed lacking.
Shout out to Eric...he made the conversation interesting and his customer service was great!
Written March 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Erik J
Stuttgart, Germany84 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We booked this tour because it was a small group and small schooner. As we were getting ready to board, they informed us that they were not going out because they had not reached the minimum of six passengers. But, for the same price they would be happy to put us on a catamaran with 38 other passengers. No thanks!
Written January 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I am sorry that we were not able to completed your trip as booked. We did not intend to "bait and switch" you or anyone. We usually offer everyone a similar trip or a refund. We do our best to make all trips go within reason, ocassionally for whatever resaon we have to cancel. Once again I am sorry you had a bad day.
Written January 20, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Emma P
6 contributions
Apr 2021 • Family
This trip is great! Isaac and Maddie were awesome staff and the captain was very friendly. They were very attentive, always asking if there was anything you need. The vibes were great, service was great, and people were great. The sea sponge snorkel spot was kind of lame, but we did see a sting ray and lots of lobsters. Other than that the experience was fantastic! They clearly know how to pick out great staff. We did a trip with Fury the day before and it was pretty awful so this definitely made up for it. Perfect Amount of people on the boat, great drinks and food! would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a good time in the keys.
Written April 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lynn B
3 contributions
Mar 2022 • Family
The most relaxing 5 hours of our time in the Keys! Captain Russ, along with his crew Davin and Brad were engaging, informative, and attentive to all on board. I tend to be nervous in and on water but I felt safe during all of the activities. It was apparent they love what they do and the boat itself is a work of art. Looking forward to booking this trip again on our next trip to the area.
Written March 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul N
2 contributions
Apr 2022
We did both a sunset cruise and the Eco-Tour on the Schooner Appledore. We chose the smaller Schooner because we didn't want a party boat and deal with a larger group and be crowded. The boat had just 22 guests. Both trips were exceptional and I'd chose them again. Marcus and Bradley did a great a job of keeping us supplied with refreshments, answering questions and helping us with the snorkeling and kayaking adventures. The sunset cruise was wonderful on a beautiful evening and we got some great pictures. On the Eco-Tour we were seated near the back and close to the captain (whose name I can't remember ;-( ). We had a wonderful conversation and learned lots about the boat, his experience the Keys and it really made the trip enjoyable. Marcus and Bradly did a great job and were very engaging and helpful. Marcus led the kayaking trip and shared his knowledge of the area and the Mangrove "islands" we visited. Plenty of food and drink. I always say you gotta get out on the water and we were glad we selected the Schooner Appledore!
Written April 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David M
3 contributions
Jun 2023
My wife and I had an amazing time Captain Mario, Jordan and his twin Bradley. The vessel was beautiful and well maintained, snorkeling was top notch and the kayaking was so much fun. We even were able to find numerous floats that had washed into the mangroves for a very distinctive souvenir. We were offered unlimited drinks, both alcoholic and non alcoholic and a great meal as well. This is a trip I would definitely do again and so much better than the huge party boats that have 40+ people and tons of kids. This trip is much more personal with a max of 14 adults only. The crew had plenty of time to interact with everyone and we had time to interact with the other visitors as well. Take this trip, you will not regret it!
Written June 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lori T
1 contribution
Apr 2022 • Couples
We had a top notch time on the Appledore Schooner with the best crew (Russell, Mario & Bradley). They were extremely friendly, and engaging; always busy checking with the passengers to provide unlimited beer, soft drinks etc.. and overall making sure we had a good time. It was a fun time out on the water with a bit of snorkeling, kayaking, sailing and lunch. Great crew! Great time!
Written April 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
May I ask what is on the buffet lunch menu?
Written May 14, 2022
16 max - our tour very comfortable with 12
Written June 7, 2019
This sound amazing. What if you've never went snorkeling, scuba or kayaking before, is this doable for the untrained?
Written March 14, 2019
Yes, I would say so. The snorkeling was in very clear, calm water and we wore life vests, staying close to the boat. The kayaks were very comfortable and stable. Although you did have a distance to paddle from the boat to get to the mangrove island. So you will want to be somewhat fit or at least have some arm strength. The boat had nice decking to get in and out of the kayaks.
I highly recommend:)
Written March 18, 2019
Erika
Orlando, Florida
Hi, I am interested, but I am 6 months pregnant and it says it is not recommended for pregnant travelers. Can you please clarify that?
Written March 5, 2019
(Hopefully someone with the company will chime in with an official answer, but until then ... )
Nothing on our day’s trip would pose any particular risk or difficulty to a pregnant woman. I suppose if the sailing were a lot rougher, then maybe. I suspect the warning is a legal (CYA) protection for the company. The real question is whether you could then go at your own risk upon signing a waiver.
Climbing up into the boat from snorkeling or kayaking are a bit strenuous. Of course, you wouldn’t be required to partake of those activities if you just wanted to sail and accompany others who do.
Written March 6, 2019
Colin M
St Martin / St Maarten
Can a four year old join the kayaking your somehow? Do u have double kayaks?
Written January 1, 2019
The kayaks were two seaters. And the paddle around the mangroves was very calm waters. But you have to kayak open water to and from the boat. I would ask the captain about letting the child go.
Written January 7, 2019
Can members of the same party book separately so they can use their own credit cards instead of putting it all on one?
Written July 7, 2018
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