Any recomended snorkel areas out of Key West. Have already decided to get to Dry Tortuga on a day trip- good area??

While the Dry Tortugas make a great day trip, I found the snorkeling to be disappointing. However, I was there on a fairly windy day which made swimming to the reef offshore too difficult, and forced us to use the waters adjacent to the fort. Visibility was poor, probably due to wind and wave action. I don't know how it might be on a good day, but I'm guessing it does not rival Mexico or Belize.

Despite that, you'll still enjoy the island with its fort, and such snorkeling as there may be.

We' ve sn orkeled twice @ Ft. Jefferson & it was great both times - beautiful fish, vegetation & coral. Also, it's great because it accomodates all levels of expertise - areas where you can stand up as you're snorkeling to areas offering more challenges, like the pier area.

We were told that the snorkeling is good by the rocks on Ft. Zach, but when we were there it was rough enough that we couldn't see beyond our elbows. You should be able to tell before you rent equipment (we brought our own).

The Tortugas makes a nice day but it is very expensive and you have to realize that boarding for both boats is 7:30 a.m. This may affect what you do the night before, and depending on where you stay, you might want a cab to the Bight, adding to the cost.

IMO try one of the morning or afternoon snorkeling trips early in your stay to see how you like it. I like the Floridays, a smaller sailboat, or the Sebago, a bigger cat. They generally go out to Sand Key which is a good place to snorkel. If you have a good time you might want to try another trip, either the Sebago Island T'Ing or the Danger Charters all-day trip; snorkeling, kayaking, food & drinks. These board at 9:30 which is more conveninet.

Sadly, my favorite afternoon trip, the one I used to suggest, the Caribbean Spirit has been sold and is no longer in Key West.

hth
Pjk