Bugeye Backcountry Eco Adventure

Bugeye Backcountry Eco Adventure

Join us for a fun-filled tour that combines three great Key West activities. This eco-tour features a schooner sail, guided kayak tour of mangrove islands, and a snorkel tour of sponge gardens. If you love fun, adventure, and the outdoors, this tour is perfect for you!

We will take you to explore Key West's mangrove islands in the Key West National Wildlife Refuge. You will sail on our Appledore Star, a two masted 65' shallow drafted bugeye schooner with a bathroom and wide decks so you have room to walk around. This intimate tour is capped at 16 people so there is plenty of seating and room to spread out as you relax. This sailing experience is authentic and we encourage passenger participation!

Your day will include exploring the mangrove islands. Be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins, manta rays, turtles, and more. This area is home to a lot of different wildlife so you never know what you may see! 

Once at the mangrove islands, time is split between guided kayaking tours and guided snorkeling tours. The warm water is calm and shallow, making it easy and relaxing to kayak. We will guide you and give you instructions as you embark and kayak in the area best known for kayaking. Our knowledgeable crew will talk about the mangrove trees and teach you a lot about their role as nurseries to the sea. On a typical day, you may come across blue herons, bald eagles, and ospreys. In the water, be on the lookout for turtles, manta rays, and different tropical fish. 

During the snorkeling part, you will be able to enjoy the water and learn about the sponge gardens. It is up to you whether you want to explore the marine wildlife and tropical fish or grab a noodle and relax by floating on the surface. Weather conditions vary throughout different areas of the mangrove islands but our captain and crew will ensure to pick the best path based on the day's tides and weather. 

After kayaking and snorkeling, come back aboard and rinse off with our fresh water rinse. Cool off with a complimentary cold drink. We have beer, wine, homemade sangria, soda, and water. 

Lunch is also served on the boat. This buffet includes peel and eat shrimp, fried chicken, roast beef sliders, pasta salad, and cookies. 

What is the weather cancellation policy?
If the activity must be cancelled due to bad weather, and you cannot reschedule, you will be issued a full refund.

Where is the departure point for this tour?
Check-in instructions will be included in your activity confirmation email.

Where can I park?
There is metered parking available near the check-in facility.

What do I need to bring?
You will want to bring your own towels, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, bathing suit, camera and money for souvenirs.

What kind of drinks are included?
Included drinks are home-made sangria, premium beer, boutique wine, soft drinks and water.  Alcoholic drinks after snorkeling, w/ ID

It is your responsibility to make sure you are aware of and understand all restrictions pertaining to this tour before booking online or over the phone. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are medically qualified and within any limits listed below in order to participate in this activity. No refunds will be given to those who reserve a spot and can not participate due to the restrictions listed below. For more information please read our cancellation policy and terms and conditions page or call our staff with any questions regarding your ability to participate.

Restrictions

  • Must show ID/DL before being served any alcoholic beverages.
  • Alcoholic beverages are served only after snorkeling is complete.
  • NOTICE: The discounted prices may not be available during Peak or Holiday periods. Peak/Holiday pricing is $119.95 per adult.