Snorkeling Adventures in Marathon Florida

Your Custom Underwater Exploration Awaits

Not every day on the water needs to involve a fishing rod. I’m Captain Kevin Johnsen with Florida Keys Reel Adventures, and my snorkeling trips out of Marathon are all about slowing down, getting in the water, and exploring some of the most beautiful reef systems in the Florida Keys.

I’ll take you to hand-picked reef locations and pristine sandbars where the water is crystal clear and loaded with colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and stunning coral formations. These are spots I’ve spent years finding, and I’ll share what I know about the marine life we come across along the way. It’s equal parts relaxation and discovery.

Snorkeling trips are available in flexible 3, 4, 5, or 6-hour excursions, so we can tailor the day to fit your group — whether that’s a quick trip with young kids or a longer outing to hit multiple reef sites. All ages and experience levels are welcome. If you’ve never snorkeled before, I’ll get you comfortable in the water before we head to the reef.

What You’ll See on the Reef

The reefs off Marathon are part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, and the underwater scenery is incredible. Expect to see schools of vibrant tropical fish, fan corals, brain corals, sponges, and — if the timing is right — sea turtles cruising along the bottom. Every spot is a little different, and I pick locations based on conditions that day to make sure you get the clearest water and the best visibility.

You don’t need to be a strong swimmer to enjoy this. The reef sites I use are typically shallow enough to see everything from the surface, and I’m in the water with you if you need any help.

The 4-Hour Family Fish & Snorkel Combo

Want the best of both worlds? This trip splits your time between reef fishing and snorkeling on the same outing — and it’s one of the most popular trips I run for families.

We’ll start with some fishing on the reef, where I’ll get everyone set up and coach you through catching yellowtail snapper, lane snapper, and whatever else is biting. Once you’ve had your fill of fishing, we’ll move to a snorkeling spot where you can jump in and explore the reef you were just fishing over. Seeing the underwater world that holds all those fish adds a whole new layer to the experience.

This combo trip is perfect for groups where some people want to fish and others would rather snorkel — everyone gets to do what they love without needing to book two separate trips. It’s also a great option for families with younger kids who might want to mix things up throughout the day.

Is This Trip Right for Your Group?

Snorkeling excursions and the fish & snorkel combo are both great for families with kids of all ages, couples looking for a mellow day on the water, or anyone who wants to experience the Florida Keys from below the surface. The flexible trip lengths mean we can build the day around your group’s energy level and attention span.

This is a beginner-friendly activity, but it does require a few basics — you need to know how to swim and be comfortable in open water. You’ll also need to climb a small ladder to get back into the boat, so make sure everyone in your group can handle that physically. Other than that, these are some of the most laid-back trips I offer.