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.
Adventure brief
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.
Cudjoe Key, Florida, offers some of the most inviting waters for aquatic adventures, and Above & Below Adventures brings a vivid slice of that underwater world directly to visitors. Specializing in lobster diving, this outfitter turns a standard fishing trip into a hands-on pursuit of gastronomic delight—clamping onto bright-red lobsters amid thriving coral reefs and seagrass beds. Whether you're a seasoned diver or trying it for the first time, their team provides expert guidance and top-quality gear, ensuring safety and fun in equal measure.
The activity takes place along the vibrant Florida Keys, a chain of islands renowned for crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Lobster diving here is prime during the season, when these crustaceans scuttle beneath rocks and reefs, offering an authentic, up-close encounter with the area's aquatic ecosystems. Divers will glide past schools of silvery sardines and spot rays and often curious sea turtles from a safe distance.
What makes Above & Below Adventures stand out is their inclusive approach suited for all skill levels, making it accessible for families or thrill-seekers aiming for a new challenge. The company’s local guides are passionate about sharing tips on where the lobsters are most active while respecting the delicate balance of the marine environment. Their well-maintained boats and efficient rental equipment mean you’re set for a smooth, memorable outing.
Lobster diving isn't just about the catch—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a lesser-seen side of the Keys’ underwater richness. Participants leave with stories and, if they choose, a fresh bounty of lobster. It's an adventure rooted in the natural beauty and bounty of Cudjoe Key, offering visitors an authentic slice of Florida's famed marine life.
This experience is perfect for the curious, nature lovers, and seafood enthusiasts eager to get their hands wet and their shells in the water.
Route Schematic
Itinerary at a glance
A concise progression from meeting and briefing to multiple in‑water stops and return to shore for cleanup and advice.
Meet and safety briefing
Guests meet the captain at Oceans Edge Marina (Key West) or the Cudjoe Key location for a quick safety briefing and overview of lobster diving rules and techniques while loading personal gear and provisions.
Reefs, ledges and backcountry spots
Head to nearby productive reefs, rock piles and backcountry areas where spiny lobster hide; guests freedive and snorkel to search for lobster and the captain rotates between spots to maximize success.
Return, clean and local tips
Back at the dock the captain and crew will clean and bag your lobster on request, share photos of the catch, and recommend local hook‑and‑cook restaurants for dinner.
A quick safety briefing and overview of lobster diving rules and techniques is given before departure; the captain will adjust the route and dive plan based on conditions and group skill level.
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.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-12T23:08:19.258Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.