STOCK ISLAND BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Three Hours with Wild Bottlenose Dolphins: A Private Key West Charter
A 3-hour private charter out of Key West that pairs guided dolphin encounters with snorkel time over coral reefs — this guide lays out what to expect, what’s provided, and who the trip best suits.
Three Hours with Wild Bottlenose Dolphins: A Private Key West Charter.
Board a private vessel with Captain Sheri and head into the clear, shallow waters around Key West to observe wild bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat, snorkel coral reef patches, and visit backcountry mangroves and bird-rich shallows while learning about local marine life and dolphin behavior.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Up-close Bottlenose Dolphin Encounters
The trip centers on observing resident bottlenose dolphins in the wild, with interpretation on social behavior, physiology and the animals’ role in the local ecosystem.
Turnkey Snorkeling — Sanitized Gear and Safety Aids
Top-quality, sanitized masks, dry snorkels and fins are provided along with snorkel vests and float noodles and patient, professional snorkel instruction so guests can focus on reefs and marine life rather than equipment.
Marina Comforts and Simple Refreshments
Guests receive complimentary beverages and a guest pass option for Key West Harbor Marina—access to a heated infinity pool, a small sandy beach and marina store are available prior to departure.
What the day feels like
What three hours on a private charter feels like
Over a focused three-hour window you’ll depart with a small private group, search for and observe dolphins behaving naturally, slip into clear water to snorkel coral patches, and move through shallow backcountry areas where birds and reef fish are abundant — all while the captain and crew provide interpretation, gear, beverages and dry storage.
THE WILD
Up-close Bottlenose Dolphin Encounters
The trip centers on observing resident bottlenose dolphins in the wild, with interpretation on social behavior, physiology and the animals’ role in the local ecosystem.
THE GEAR
Turnkey Snorkeling — Sanitized Gear and Safety Aids
Top-quality, sanitized masks, dry snorkels and fins are provided along with snorkel vests and float noodles and patient, professional snorkel instruction so guests can focus on reefs and marine life rather than equipment.
THE BASE
Marina Comforts and Simple Refreshments
Guests receive complimentary beverages and a guest pass option for Key West Harbor Marina—access to a heated infinity pool, a small sandy beach and marina store are available prior to departure.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this private, small-boat outing.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing is a three-hour private charter with scheduled departures in morning and early afternoon; confirm specific departure windows when booking.
Bring a camera, sunglasses and towels; sunscreen is provided on board and dry storage is available for personal gear and cameras.
The trip supplies sanitized snorkel equipment (masks, dry snorkels and fins), snorkel vests, float noodles, beverages (spring water, assorted sodas, iced tea), binoculars and educational ID cards.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the charter?
This is a three-hour private charter with set departures, typically a morning and an early-afternoon window.
How many people can join one trip?
Private charters are capped at a maximum of six passengers per trip.
What equipment and refreshments are provided?
The operator provides sanitized snorkel masks, dry snorkels and fins, snorkel vests and float noodles, beverages (spring water, sodas, iced tea), sunscreen, binoculars, dry storage and printed educational cards.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, but you must book the private dog charter option or contact the operator directly for arrangements.
Is there anywhere to freshen up before or after the trip?
Guests have access to a complimentary guest pass to Key West Harbor Marina prior to the trip, which offers a heated infinity pool, a small sandy beach and a dressing room with shower via the marina store.