Key West Glass Bottom Boat
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You don’t need snorkeling gear to explore beneath the sea in the Florida keys. Take a Key West glass bottom boat ride and this amazing underwater world will come to you. Surrounded by colorful tropical fish, you’ll feel like the reef has come alive right beneath your feet.
Call Key West Charter Boat or fill out a quote form. We’ll put you on a big excursion catamaran or your own private glass bottom charter boat. If you’re ready to make reservations now, just click the online booking button.
Turn your vacation into an exploration. Discover a whole different world, a world of fins and gills, shells and sea horses, turquoise water and bright orange coral heads. On a Key West glass bottom boat excursion, you get to see what life is like below the waves without ever getting wet. No other kind of boat gives you such a unique view of tropical marine life.
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A Variety Of Ages & Wildlife
A Key West glass bottom boat tour is a family-friendly activity, filled with wonder and surprises for young and old alike. On state-of-the-art catamarans like Pride of Key West, tour guides provide fascinating narration of what you’re seeing as each mile passes beneath you. They’ll even point out Key West’s only window into this underwater paradise.
The ever-changing parade of marine life and colorful coral reefs make for an experience that’s educational, entertaining and a lot of fun. You’ll even get to observe sea turtles gliding gracefully beneath the waves. In fact, many visitors say the glass bottom boat ride was the favorite part of their Key West vacation.
Catamaran excursions leave Old Town harbor most mornings and afternoons, weather permitting. The biggest and most stable Key West glass bottom boat design, a catamaran makes the perfect viewing platform. There’s plenty of room to spread out and relax in air-conditioned comfort while gazing at a colorful and intriguing seascape.
Comfortable Boats
Onboard restrooms, snack bar, and seated sun decks are all provided for the two-hour tour. Take the sunset cruise and you’ll get the added bonus of viewing a famous key west sunset. With complimentary champagne and soft drinks in hand, toast the horizon when it turns as colorful as the underwater world below. Key West glass bottom boats are truly amazing, showcasing some of the most interesting marine life in the Keys.
Glass bottom catamarans can be chartered for private events and corporate outings. Just think how delighted your guests will be to know that sea creatures await as part of the entertainment. Reservations should be made well in advance for any private charter, so call Key West Charter Boat or fill out a quote form. From catered office parties to big family reunions and even wedding receptions, we’ll make all the arrangements for a magical experience on a Key West glass bottom boat.
See The Barrier Reef
Home to the only living coral reef in North America, the waters of the lower keys are part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Through the looking glass of a Key West glass floor boat, this remarkable ecosystem unfolds before your eyes with dramatic underwater vistas and a stunning array of sea life. Home to numerous species of wildlife your experienced captain will get you and your party up close and personal with natures finest.
Brightly colored tropical fish and sea creatures of every imaginable shape and size swim with playful sea turtles and graceful rays. You’ll even see impressive brain coral formations and other sea creatures in their natural habitat. Looking down on it all, you can’t help but marvel at Mother Nature’s brilliant handiwork. Key West Glass Bottom Boat truly a marvel.
Not far from Key West lies the third largest barrier reef in the world. It’s a biosphere that’s as fragile as it is beautiful, and several steps have been taken to protect it. Snorkelers and scuba divers are prohibited from touching the living coral. Reef-safe sunscreens sold in local stores are formulated without chemicals that harm the reef’s vulnerable plant population.
Shallow Water Access
Furthermore, only certain boats are allowed close to the reef. Fortunately, with their shallow draft hulls, even the largest Key West glass bottom boats are able to drift on the surface without disturbing the delicate balance of life below. Thanks to the catamaran’s twin hull design, you’ll experience maximum stability and much less rocking motion than traditional boats.
Saving the reef for future generations is a labor of love in Key West. Environmental studies routinely measure the reef’s health and size. Fish populations are estimated, water temperatures and salinity levels recorded, and much more. It’s because of efforts like these that glass bottom boat rides continue to be such wonderful experiences in the crystal waters delicate reef areas.
Not all Florida keys glass bottom boats are 65 feet long and carry a hundred people. Call Key West Charter Boat and we’ll be happy to lay out all of your choices. Unlike huge travel booking sites that know a little bit about a lot of destinations, Key West is all we do. We know every nook and cranny like the back of our hands. Think of us as your tour and activities concierge. A concierge that has years of local knowledge to share about this incredible island.
Private Charters Equal Close Encounters
If you want to get up close and personal with nature, a smaller Key West glass bottom boat—one that can access shallower water, take you to hidden coves and explore secluded beaches—is the way to go. These charters have a scheduled departure time and can be arranged for groups of all sizes. In addition to the captain, these boats carry up to six passengers and can be booked by the seat or chartered exclusively for your own private group.
Through their special glass floors, fish feel close enough to reach out and touch. So try it! Snorkeling gear is provided on many of the smaller boats. If you’re interested in taking an informative eco tour through backwaters and mangrove islands, knowledgeable guides are more than happy to oblige. Morning and afternoon trips leave from several departure points around Key West and take about three hours.
Custom Charter Durations
Private charters are available for trips lasting a few hours to a full day. By hiring out the whole boat, you’re in control of where you go and what you do. If you love dolphins—and who doesn’t—ask the captain to take you to one of Key West’s several dolphin playgrounds. These shallow-water areas are gathering points where Bottlenose dolphins routinely come to play. It’s not uncommon to see pods of 10 or 20 frolicking together on a Key West glass bottom boat.
While protection regulations prohibit boats from approaching these magnificent mammals, there’s a good chance they’ll approach you. Bottlenose dolphins are not only smart, but they’re also very curious creatures. So don’t be surprised if you suddenly spot one gliding beneath the viewing area of your glass bottom boat. It’s a thrill you’ll never forget, especially with passengers expert tour guides pointing them out.
Tropical Underwater Beauty
The waters of the Florida keys have more shipwrecks per square mile than nearly any other place in the United States. A number of the wrecks were intentionally scuttled to form artificial reefs, while others simply had an unlucky day and ended up on the bottom.
Lucky for you, some wrecks around Key West lie in shallow water and can be easily viewed through the floor of our Key West glass bottom boat. It’s like having a window on history right at your feet. For an even closer look, drop anchor and jump overboard with mask and snorkel. The artificial reef is teaming with sea life where stand sentry coral formations create natural habitats.
Book Your Charter Today
A Key West glass bottom boat ride is something everyone can enjoy, from adventure hunters to relaxation seekers. There’s nothing like being on the water and absolutely nothing like seeing the marine life within it. The boat experience also offers continuous viewing opportunities through a special glass bottom, designed for maximum viewing with minimum stress.
For more information or to make reservations, call Key West Charter Boat or fill out a quote form. To book immediately, click the online booking button. Space is limited on these popular outings, especially during the busy season. A little advance planning goes a long way.
What to Expect on Your Glass Bottom Boat Ride
Going for a glass bottom boat ride in Key West is a unique experience like no other. You will be welcomed with a warm smile by the crew who will make sure that you have a great time enjoying viewing our amazing coral reef system through the glass bottom boat in an air conditioned viewing cabin where you can stay cool.
These tours usually start with an eco-tour which is accompanied by tour guides who explain the different species of fish and coral as you go along. This aspect is quite educational, useful and exciting as well.
Perhaps the most interesting thing about the Glass bottom boat is of course its viewing window placed strategically at the bottom of the boat. Many guests are stunned by how clear the glass is and how much they were actually able to see through it. The glass window provides you with an uninterrupted view of a majestic underwater world full of amazing marine life and coral rock formations, just the kind traditional v hull designs can’t offer compared to what kinds gliding boat offers.
There are multiple trips throughout the day departing from Key West every two hours to the barrier reef. If you decide to book the last charter trip of the day you will be treated to an amazing sunset on the way back to the port. Refreshments and snacks will also be available throughout the charter at the onboard snack bar and lounge. All of which will be accompanied by stunning views of course!
I wanted my kids to have a unique experience with thier grandparents, the glass bottom boat was the perfect way for them both to see the ocean and stay comfortable at the same time.
We got to get face to face with an amazing sea turtle it was so cool!
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Key West Glass Bottom Boat Observation
Key West Glass Bottom Boat Sightseeing
Key West Glass Bottom Boat Turtles
Key West Glass Bottom Boat Deck
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Frequently Asked Questions
What marine life can I expect to see on a glass bottom boat tour?
The coral barrier reef and all 1,400 species of marine life that come with it are possible. Commonly seen are tropical fish, sea turtles, dolphins and eagle rays.
How much is the Key West Glass Bottom Boat Trip?
The Key West Glass bottom boat trip starts at $45.95 for kids and $69.95 for adults.
Are the glass bottom boat tours suitable for children?
Absolutely! The glass bottom boat is kid and family friendly. Plenty of seating, shade, restrooms and even a snack bar. It’s the perfect vessel to bring your family on.
What should I bring on a glass bottom boat tour?
A camera because you are going to see some pretty cool wildlife. But other than that hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are standard.
What is included in a glass bottom sunset cruise?
The glass bottom sunset cruise includes the classic tour of the barrier reef and finishes with a beautiful sunset cruise on the way back in.
How long do the glass bottom boat tours typically last?
The Glass bottom boat tour typically takes just about 2hrs to complete
Is there a dress code for the glass bottom boat tours?
There is no dress code for the glass bottom boat. That being said, hats and sunglasses are always essential. Perhaps an extra layer in case it gets chilly may also be a good idea too.
When should I book the glass bottom boat tours?
Book as soon as you know you are coming to Key West seats sell out fast. You can book with us online or over the phone just give us a call.
Is there food and drink on the glass bottom boat tour?
Yes food and drink is provided via the snack bar located onboard the boat.
Is it possible to see dolphins during the glass bottom boat tours?
While dolphins are wild and cannot be predicted when they will show up, it is not uncommon to see them. We often spot them riding our bow jumping in the air next to us.
Is a military discount provided on the glass bottom boat tour?
Yes this can be provided to active duty military members with fury water adventures and others.
What are soft corals?
Soft corals unlike hard corals lack rigid skeletons allowing them to be more flexible in ocean currents. They often appear in forms like fans, whips, plumes, or trees, with vibrant colors such as pink, yellow, orange, or purple.
Does the glass bottom boat have air conditioning?
The glass bottom boat is air-conditioned and features a spacious sundeck for comfort.
What do the tours include?
The tours include an informative eco-tour narrated by experienced crew members.
How long does the ride to the reef take?
The ride to the reef takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, with viewing time at the reef lasting around 25 to 30 minutes.
Is there a snack bar on the boat?
Hungry guests can purchase snacks and beverages on board, such as chips, sodas, and water.
Can you see the reef through the glass?
The glass bottom boat tours in Key West provide views of North America’s only living coral reef.
How long does the whole trip take?
The tours typically last between 105 and 120 minutes, which includes traveling to the reef and viewing time.
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