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Namaste' Eco Excursions

Namaste' Eco Excursions

Namaste' Eco Excursions
5
Scuba & SnorkellingBoat ToursEco ToursPrivate ToursNature & Wildlife Tours
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Namaste Sailing/Keys Eco-tours specializes in coral discovery tours to the less frequented ecological reserves in the Florida Lower Keys. Each trip includes a professional ecology presentation complete with professional underwater images of all the different corals, invertebrates, and reef fish we encounter. Snorkel equipment is provided along with expert instruction. We only accommodate 8 guests per excursion so our guests are guaranteed a crowd free and intimate coral reef experience.
Key West, Florida
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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.


5.0
5.0 of 5 bubbles143 reviews
Excellent
132
Very good
4
Average
3
Poor
1
Terrible
3

SandyBiker
Davis, CA22 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2011 • Couples
There are special times in your life when you meet someone that you want to keep. This is what happened on our sunset sail with Jeff and Trish of Namaste' Private Sailing Adventures. Their easy going, kind and just fun-to-be-around nature had us wanting to hang around with them more.
We are sailors, so we wanted to really sail and not just motor about on some large party boat with the the sails flapping in the wind. And that's exactly what the good captains provided. Real honest to goodness sailing on a 53' double-ended sailboat.
Sunset was so beautiful and relaxing that we canceled our snorkle trip with a different larger operation and booked with Namaste instead.
Jeff and Trish are so honest, they wouldn't take us out on a bad weather day, but instead recomended waiting one day for better snorkling weather. Something the larger operation wouldn't do.
When we snorkled Trish was with us the entire time in the water to point out her favorite spots and critters. A special treat was receiving photos of the day including one awesome shot with me and the turtle. Great day.
I would recomend this trip to anyone....new or experienced sailors and snorklers. Trish and Jeff are extremely safety conscious and mindful of the needs of their customers. It was the perfect blend of activity and relaxation. Finding them was the best part of our Key West visit.
Can I keep them?
Written November 11, 2011
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.
What a great review! Thank you, Sandy, for all the nice things you said. We had an exceptionally great time with you, and the photo of you and Lonetree was a bonus for me, too. You were certainly in the right place at the right time. If you'd been afraid of him, it could have never happened. We're looking forward to seeing you two again soon, maybe in some crystal clear, no-wetsuit-required Bahamas or Jamaica waters. And yes, we want to keep you, too. -Trish
Written November 23, 2011
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

DocKansasCity
Kansas City16 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2011
Captain Jeff and Captain Trish have a beatiful sailboat on which they take a small number of snorkellers. They are very knowlegable about where to go, In our case, a storm was brewing and visibility was low at their initial choice, so we went to another which was perfect. Trish snorkels with you and points out the various coral, plants, fish, and creatures that you see. She teaches you to see better than you ever saw before. Highly highly recommended.
Written August 19, 2011
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.

snorkeler48
Amelia Island, Fl7 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2011 • Couples
We spent a day snorkeling from the beautiful Namaste sailing vessel. Captains Jeff and Trish were wonderful hosts. On the way to the reef, Trish gave us a preview of what we would see snorkeling and even gave me pointers on how to "free dive". We snorkeled for hours on the beautiful reef, enjoyed a break inside the cabin during a brief rain shower and were given delicious treats! Captain Trish took awesome underwater photos of us snorkeling and gorgeous underwater shots that we will treasure. We would most certainly book another full day with the Namaste and her gracious captains. My husband will be careful not to step on Captain Ron's tail next time!
Written August 6, 2011
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.

JeffGammon
New York City, NY13 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Apr 2019 • Couples
My husband and I booked a snorkeling excursion with Namaste and felt like it was only an adequate/average experience. Clearly, Namaste is very well reviewed on TripAdvisor (which was a factor in our booking them), but our experience made us wonder whether something had gone awry with our tour.

The information we read on the website made it seem like it would be more of a special, hands-on three hours on AND IN the water. While Jeff was eager and informative about his on-deck timeline presentation about the millions of years of geological history regarding coral reefs, the information about the present day was a little lacking. Additionally, it was a bit surprising to be on an “eco” excursion and to hear Jeff talk about how global climate change doesn’t concern him as much as pollution does, especially since climate change is the result of pollution by greenhouse gases.

During Jeff’s presentation on the boat, there were some details and photos of different corals, but there was no instruction in the water. The pics and description on the site made it seem like the four of us who were “guests” would be led snorkeling around the reef and be presented with observations and sightings of the marine life first-hand—for example, there’s a photo onsite of a diver showing/handing a guest a sea cucumber. What actually happened was that Jeff dove into the water before any of the guests and then seemed to be off swimming on his own personal snorkeling adventure during the roughly 40-45 minutes we were snorkeling, although he and his (very friendly) wife, Trish, did swim by to take underwater pics from time to time. And that brings me to another point: We paid extra for a photo package, which ended up being publicly available pics that they posted to Facebook after the trip anyway; no “photo package” was ever provided specifically to us.

Additionally, there was no checking in at any time about the comfort level of any guest—nothing asked about swimming abilities, no suggestion of floatation assistance in the fairly choppy water, and no requirement even of life vests at any time during the three hours we were on/in the water. This actually discouraged my husband (a nervous swimmer) from even getting in the water, although neither Jeff nor Trish ever inquired about why one of the only four guests on board didn’t want to get in the water or whether there was anything they could do as guides. (The tour description called for strong swimmers but also accommodated “shy swimmers.) Jeff and Trish seemed, in this regard, as being rather amateurish, and the food and drinks provided were lackluster as well (a block of supermarket cheese cut up on the spot, along with shrinkwrapped watermelon and pineapple slices and crackers dumped out on plates set on deck.

We aren’t super fancy or picky, but we’ve been on less expensive and equally informative snorkeling excursions elsewhere (St Thomas, Turks and Caicos, etc), and Namaste was a bit adequate by comparison, especially regarding the higher price and the hands-on explorations that was promised via the Namaste website.
Written April 8, 2019
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.
We truly regret that this reviewer feels she did not experience the quality trip that we are so well known for. Over the years, we have developed a quality interpretive science presentation that allows guests to identify and understand what they see while in the water. Our presentation is rife with actual pictures of the area we visit, and we familiarize folks with ALL the wonderful ecology they are likely to encounter. In preparation to joining this underwater world, we demonstrate correct mask and fin use, we show guests how to clear their snorkels, and our guide tows a float and instructs the group to stay close so as to see and hear the guide’s commentary. Unfortunately, even with all the advanced preparation, some guests make the decision to swim away on their own and miss this important part of the presentation. As for the observation that our guide "seemed to be off swimming on his own personal snorkeling adventure,” the guest was instructed to stay close so as to hear the commentary and be included in the photos. Usually, the guests do stay close and enjoy the benefit of in-water coral identification from a passionate guide. We can present the opportunity, but we can’t force guests to pay attention. One person in the party stated flatly that he would not get in the water. Obviously, he missed the most important part of the experience, but we are not in the business of forcing anyone into the water. After many years of experience with nervous swimmers, we have learned that it is best to allow them the opportunity to make their own choice and not pressure or embarrass them. Many times, a reluctant swimmer will gather courage in a few minutes if not pressured or embarrassed. This reviewer obviously took issue with many aspects of our trip. Her comment about climate change and its effect on the long-term survival of coral reefs is popular but uninformed, and I believe that her disagreement with the guide’s observations may have soured the entire experience for her. Her observation of our indifference to her husband’s reluctance to join us for the in-water experience is a good example of her misperception. Finally, her complaint about our choice of snack selection and preparation is true, but again, ignorant of the facts. It is illegal to cook or otherwise prepare food for the public anywhere but an inspected facility. Food served on an excursion like ours must be packaged at an approved facility, i.e. a restaurant or food store with inspected kitchen. As much of her experience is with out-of-country providers not bound by these rules, she is clearly not aware of the law. As for the reviewer’s last complaint about not getting her photos, we regret that she has not opened her email from us with the link to her full-size, high resolution photographs. I would advise her to check her spam file and contact us if she doesn’t find our email so that we can resend it. We want our guests to be happy! In closing, please know that we absolutely love our reef trips. Quite honestly, we are the best at insuring a quality experience. We give all our guests the best we have to offer in scheduling the best day, the best location, and the most passionate presentation of the Florida Reef Tract. We have been very successful with first time snorkelers and swimmers who are a little nervous, but we do not give swimming lessons, force guests to be in the best position near the guide, or make them get in the water. We are proud of the safe, quality experience we provide, but the guests must be active participants if they expect to have the best experience. Jeff Bowman Co-Owner Namaste ECO
Written May 2, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

aignerclark
Denver, CO9 contributions
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2014 • Family
We booked a snorkel trip and showed up on time -- only to be told that the water was too rough for snorkeling and that we should just sail. We don't blame the charter for the weather, but we would have liked to get this information before we left for the boat, so that we could have made a decision then. We would NOT have paid such high prices to go on a rough sailing trip. My parents both got very seasick and had to get off the boat early, then take a cab back to the hotel. The boat was very small for six guests. We love the water and are all experienced divers and snorkelers, but this was a big waste of money considering how expensive it was. VERY disappointed.
Written January 22, 2015
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.
We are very sorry this reviewer had a bad experience with us. The truth about snorkeling in the winter is that there are more days when the conditions are not favorable then there are days when it is. We go into great detail about the weather on our website and do our very best to keep all our guests informed as well as work with them in rescheduling. Because of this we have a very liberal refund policy. In essence, if there is a chance that the conditions will not be favorable for snorkeling we will give you a the opportunity to rebook or get a full refund. In some cases will even give you a ride back to your hotel. This is the best we can do! in short, for this excursion, we were honest about the conditions, offered to refund or reschedule, and this reviewer decided to go anyway. Perhaps, as the reviewer suggested, we could have given more notice but as anyone who lives here will tell you the sea conditions in the Keys can change overnight and we must plan accordingly. As for all the potential customers who are being diligent and reading this negative review please know that we are a high end charter and charge accordingly. We give our guests our very best. We provide a quality ecology presentation, provide true in-water guides, provide twice as much snorkeling time as any of the competition, and pick eco-friendly destinations that are not overwhelmed with tourist. For this our guest invest about $30 more per person than our closest competitor. On top of this, if we feel that theres a chance that snorkeling will not happen we give you a choice to cancel with a full refund. We simply cannot be more fair. Again our apologies to this reviewer for their negative experience but we did everything in a ethical and honest manner and we really wish they had taken the refund when it was offered instead of slamming us with this negative review.
Written January 23, 2015
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

TaraKentucky
Louisville, KY27 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2018 • Couples
I absolutely loved everything about the snorkeling tour. Jeff, Garrett, and Emily were very friendly, knowledgeable, and fun to be around. It was a wonderful experience that I would highly recommend.
Written July 2, 2018
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.

Snorkel_Susie
Denver, CO26 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2018 • Friends
After a frustrating snorkel excursion in Key Largo with over 100 other snorkelers, my sister and I were in search of a small group excursion to a more secluded reef. We came across Namaste' Eco Excursions, and after reading the description and reviews, we decided to book a trip.

Booking the trip was quick and easy. Jeff arranged for us to meet the next day, earlier in the morning than their typical departure time so we could avoid the afternoon storms. When we arrived, we were greeted at the marina by Jeff and Tricia, and to our pleasant surprise, we were the only two guests on the trip!

Jeff and Tricia had a very nice comfortable boat and great snorkeling equipment. On the way out to the reef, Jeff gave a fascinating and educational lesson on coral reefs and the importance of taking care of our oceans. When we arrived at the reef, it felt as if we had the entire ocean to ourselves, with the exception of a small dive boat off in the distance. Jeff and Tricia were patient and helpful as we swam with them from the boat to the reef. Once at the reef, they pointed out the various species of coral and fish that we learned about on the boat. It was so much fun to find all the different creatures and understand their roles in the ecosystem.

When we got back on the boat, Tricia cut us some fresh fruit and served cheese and crackers for our post-snorkeling snack. Jeff navigated us safely back to the marina just ahead of the storms that he predicted would come in that afternoon.

I have always been passionate about protecting our oceans and the coral reefs, so I found that Jeff and Tricia's shared passion for the ocean was what I enjoyed most about this trip. But on top of that, their warmth and hospitality far exceeded our expectations. I will definitely book another trip with them next time I visit The Keys, which I hope will be soon!

Thank you, Jeff and Tricia, for all that you're doing to educate the community and preserve our oceans. Your work is truly admirable!
Written June 12, 2018
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.

mag1998
10 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2017 • Family
We had a great time snorkeling! Fun and educational and very personal. The water was way rougher than any we had ever snorkeled in before, so be prepared for a somewhat challenging swim to the reef from the boat. If you aren't a super strong swimmer or not in great shape, please take the swim vest offered. Would recommend to friends and family. Top notch tour! Worth the little bit more that they cost.
Written March 31, 2017
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.

Taylor R
Arlington, VA2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2016 • Couples
AWESOME -- we were the only people on the boat. Was an amazing experience. Guides were super personable and helpful. Would recommend for anyone!
Written January 6, 2017
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.
AWESOME is great word and we appreciate this reviewer's kind review. Often times we split up our trips so as to allow for smaller numbers. Smaller numbers means a higher quality trip for our guests and us!
Written January 13, 2017
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Melissa T
Columbus, OH213 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2016 • Solo
I will start this review off by saying: it was noted that the water we experienced during our trip was extraordinarily clear. While the water is always beautiful and blue, visibility can vary based on weather conditions.

I have had the opportunity to snorkel all over the world - Thailand, Mexico, Dubai, Caribbean...and I never in a million years would have believed the best experience I would ever have would be in the U.S.! The Keys provide a lot of opportunity for underwater experiences and I would not trust or want to experience it with anyone else besides Trish, Jeff, and Justin of Namaste Tours.

The education and conservation aspect: Jeff, Trish, and Justin are very passionate about the ocean and the life within it. Jeff spent 15 minutes of the trip out to the reef describing how coral lives, how its benefited the world for millions of years, and how it has changed in the Florida Keys. I loved that the tour started off this way as it allowed you to get even more passionate about the journey you were about to experience. They spent time explaining the fish we would see - MANY parrotfish and exotic fish.

The reef - As mentioned, the sealife we saw was ASTOUNDING. I have never seen a better variety and population of life. We had the opportunity to see angelfish, parrotfish, trunkfish, barracuda, and probably hundreds of other types of fish. We had the opportunity to swim among a school of Blue Tangs (for those who are not familiar with fish - Dory is a Blue Tang!) Not only did we see a variety of fish and beautiful coral - we swam with a sea turtle! Now this is not common per the crew - nonetheless, the turtle swam with us for about 5 minutes. At one point he was probably 2 feet under me and near me and was just unbothered by us as we were not being obnoxious and attempting not to disturb him in his home, (nor were we in a group of 50 people :) ) He came to the surface as we were near him and was showing off. We also had the opportunity to see a Nurse shark who was beautiful.

The ride: We rode in a boat common in the Northeastern part of the US that is commonly used for lobster catching. The boat was lovely and offered a nice row of comfortable seats in the back. Getting in and out of the boat was pretty easy. On the way back to the marina, we stopped near Boca Chica to have some snacks and water. It was beautiful. Clear blue and turquoise water surrounded by mangroves. I cannot even describe how perfect it was.

The experience: Jeff, Trish, and Justin were beyond words. The private experience they offer for an affordable price is the deal of a lifetime. We had one-on-one attention the entire time. They paid attention to our safety and our experience and were in he water with us experiencing the reef. They pointed out items to us and made sure we were having a good time. The crackers, cheese, and fresh fruit they offer after snorkeling were perfect and delicious and could not have been eaten in a better place (Boca Chica is phenomenal)

I really cannot say enough about this experience. We booked the 1 stop AM tour and it was absolutely worth the money. In fact, the experience was so great I would have paid more! When you are deciding on a snorkeling tour, a reef experience, or a kayaking experience (though we did not do this in AM tour) if you don't go with this group you are missing out. The private attention and attention on conservation means so much to me.
Written November 15, 2016
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.
WOW! This is absolutely the best review we have ever received! We can only express our extreme gratitude that this reviewer chose to honor us with a great description of what we would call a "normal" day. The water was exceptionally clear and the weather was PERFECT! What the reviewer did not mention was her willingness to work with us on planning this great day. Her flexibility and ability to adjust their schedule had as much to do with the quality of experience as anything we could have done. Thank you!
Written January 13, 2017
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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Namaste' Eco Excursions - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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