CUDJOE KEY FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Hunt the Florida spiny: freedive for lobster off Cudjoe Key with Captain Jose
A four-hour lobster charter from Cudjoe Key and Key West that puts you in the water to snorkel and freedive for spiny lobster, with permits, expert guidance, and a purpose-built 32' SeaVee on standby.
Hunt the Florida spiny: freedive for lobster off Cudjoe Key with Captain Jose.
Above & Below Adventures runs a focused lobster-diving charter around Cudjoe Key and Key West that pairs local knowledge with hands-on freediving and snorkeling. Captain Jose Rodriguez guides guests to reefs, rock piles and backcountry spots during both mini-season and regular season, providing the boat, permits and on-board comforts so you can concentrate on tracking Florida’s spiny lobster.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Freedive and snorkel for Florida’s spiny lobster
This is a hands-on, in-water hunt: slip on your mask, fins and snorkel and search under coral heads and rocky ledges for lobsters. The charter is designed to rotate between multiple productive spots so everybody maximizes their chances of reaching the daily limit while learning local techniques.
A new 32' SeaVee with range and comfort
Trips run from a brand-new 2025 32’ SeaVee powered by twin 300 Mercurys and outfitted with advanced electronics, Starlink Wi‑Fi and a private bathroom. The operator provides the boat, cooler with ice and bottled water to keep the day straightforward and comfortable.
Catch, clean, and a hook‑and‑cook option
The operation handles the permits, license, gauge and tickle stick for you; the captain and crew will clean and bag your lobster on request and offer recommendations for local hook‑and‑cook restaurants so you can enjoy the catch that evening.
What the day feels like
What four hours on this charter actually feels like
You meet at a Cudjoe Key or Key West pickup, run through a quick safety briefing, then head offshore to reefs, ledges and backcountry holes. Guests rotate through freedive and snorkel sessions, slipping into clear water to check crevices while the captain moves the boat between productive spots. The day finishes back at the dock with an option to have your catch cleaned and bagged and local dinner recommendations for a fresh hook‑and‑cook.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most out of this lobster‑diving charter.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Charters run four hours and are offered during both mini‑season and the regular lobster season in the Florida Keys.
Bring your personal snorkel gear (mask, fins, snorkel), wetsuit, gloves and a mesh bag; also pack a towel, dry clothes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, reef‑safe sunscreen, UV shirt) and optional waterproof camera or GoPro. Cooler with ice and bottled water is provided; bring any additional food or drinks you prefer.
Meet at the operator’s Cudjoe Key location or Oceans Edge Marina (Key West); the operator provides the boat, permits, lobster gauge and tickle stick, cooler with ice and bottled water, and can clean and bag your lobster on request.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the lobster charter?
The trip is a four‑hour charter.
Where do I meet the captain?
Meet Captain Jose at the operator’s Cudjoe Key location or at Oceans Edge Marina in Key West; the listing references Cudjoe Key, Stock Island and Key West pickup options.
What gear and permits are provided?
The operator provides the boat, permits and license coverage, lobster gauge and tickle stick; passengers should bring their own personal snorkel gear and any other personal items.
What should I bring aboard?
Bring personal snorkel gear (mask, fins, snorkel), wetsuit, gloves and a mesh bag, plus a towel, dry clothes, sun protection and any food or drinks you want beyond the provided bottled water and cooler with ice.
Is this trip suitable for beginners or families?
Yes; the charter is described as appropriate for all skill levels, including families and first‑time lobster hunters, with the captain providing guidance on techniques.
What about gratuities?
A 20% tip for the captain and crew is customary and greatly appreciated.