Marathon Florida is a remarkable place for exploring by water and on land, offering a range of tours that showcase its natural beauty and laid-back charm. Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset cruise, an active day on the water, or a family-friendly watersports adventure, Marathon has you covered. We particularly love the Sunset Champagne Cruise on the Marathon Mermaid for its unforgettable atmosphere—cruising through tranquil waters with a glass of bubbly and stunning sunset views is hard to beat. Plus, the Sandbar Excursion offers a relaxed, local vibe, while the Snorkeling Adventure at Sombrero Reef combines marine exploration with boat comfort. With a variety of options, Marathon is a water-lover’s paradise waiting to be explored.
Quick Overview
Our top list features a mix of romantic sunset cruises, family-friendly water parks, adrenaline-pumping foilboarding, and scenic snorkeling trips. For a relaxing evening, the Sunset Champagne Cruise provides champagne and stunning views. The Sandbar Excursion is perfect for those wanting to enjoy a day at the local sandbar with kayaks and paddleboards. Active travelers will appreciate the Rhum Runner Aqua Park, and families or groups of friends may want to try the Foilboarding Experience. Snorkelers should check out the Sombrero Reef, a vibrant coral spot teeming with life.
1. Florida: Sunset Champagne Cruise on the Marathon Mermaid
At number 1, the Sunset Champagne Cruise on the Marathon Mermaid offers an elegant way to enjoy Marathon’s natural beauty. This 2-hour cruise is perfect for couples or anyone wanting a relaxed, memorable evening. The cruise departs in the late afternoon and takes you through Boot Key Harbor, a calm waterway ideal for viewing the setting sun. The highlight is, of course, the champagne—served as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a stunning backdrop for photos. Along with the bubbles, you’ll enjoy soothing music and fantastic views around the iconic 7 Mile Bridge, one of the Florida Keys’ most recognizable landmarks.
What makes this cruise stand out is the quality of the experience. The reviews, with a full 5-star rating from 7 reviewers, praise the peaceful atmosphere and excellent crew. It’s an ideal choice for celebrating a special occasion or simply unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The price of $82 per person is reasonable considering the serene setting and the included drinks. Keep in mind this is a short cruise, so it’s best for those seeking a romantic, laid-back experience rather than a full day of activity.
Bottom Line: An elegant, short cruise perfect for sunset lovers and those celebrating special moments.
2. Sandbar Excursion – Vacation Like the Locals Do!
Number 2 on our list, the Sandbar Excursion is a four-hour adventure that embodies the relaxed, friendly spirit of Marathon. For $100 per person, you get a chance to explore the local water life while enjoying an authentic Keys experience. The tour features a scenic waterway cruise, but the real highlight is the visit to the sandbar, where you can stretch out, float on the XL Lily Pad, or paddleboard. The tour provides all the fun toys—kayaks, paddleboards, floats—so you can spend the day playing in the shallow waters.
Snacks and drinks are included, making it a hassle-free day, and the small group size ensures plenty of personal attention. The reviews rate it 4.6 out of 5, with many mentioning how it feels like spending a day with friends rather than a commercial tour. This excursion is especially suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone who wants a mix of sightseeing and leisure. It’s a good choice if you want to sample local life, with plenty of time to relax, splash around, and enjoy the Keys’ easygoing vibe.
Bottom Line: A fun, laid-back way to experience Marathon’s waters with all the toys included and a genuine local feel.
3. Marathon: Snorkeling Adventure by Boat at Sombrero Reef
Number 3 is the Snorkeling Adventure at Sombrero Reef, a 3-hour trip that takes you out to one of Florida’s most famous underwater spots. The reef is part of the world’s third-largest barrier reef, filled with colorful corals, exotic fish, and even occasional sea turtles. You’ll cruise aboard the well-rated Marathon Mermaid, a vessel known for its comfort and top-notch equipment.
What sets this tour apart is the quality of the marine life and the professionalism of the crew. The reviews note the vibrant coral and abundant fish, perfect for snorkelers of all skill levels. The tour includes guided snorkeling, with instructors pointing out interesting creatures and coral formations, making it suitable even for beginners. The $89 price includes everything you need—gear, water, and light snacks—so you can focus on enjoying the underwater spectacle.
For families or solo travelers eager to see marine life, this trip offers excellent value. Expect to spend your time swimming in crystal-clear waters and capturing photos of a lively coral ecosystem.
Bottom Line: A reliable, high-quality snorkeling trip ideal for marine life enthusiasts and beginners alike.
4. Marathon: Rhum Runner Aqua Park Adventure
Number 4, the Rhum Runner Aqua Park Adventure offers a quick, action-packed 50-minute float through a massive floating playground. Priced at just $38 per person, it’s a budget-friendly option that appeals to families, kids, and the young at heart. The lagoon on Grassy Key features trampolines, climbing walls, slides, and obstacle courses—an ideal way to burn off energy.
This tour is best suited for active travelers, especially families with children who enjoy water-based fun. The setup is straightforward—jump on during the hourly sessions and enjoy the adrenaline rush. Because the duration is short, it’s a great addition to a day filled with other ocean activities or as a standalone quick escape for kids.
A couple of reviews mention that it’s perfect for kids and that the floating playground is “massive and loads of fun.” Keep in mind, if you’re seeking a more relaxing day, this isn’t the tour for you, but for pure fun and physical activity, it’s hard to beat.
Bottom Line: A lively, affordable watersports playground that delivers fun in a short time.
5. Marathon: Intro to Foilboarding Experience
Number 5 on our list, the Intro to Foilboarding Experience is perfect for those looking to try a new watersport with expert supervision. For $214 per group (up to 2 people), the one-hour lesson teaches you how to glide on a foilboard, which combines surfing and flight over the water.
This experience stands out because it offers a quick but comprehensive introduction to foilboarding, a skill that takes some balance but promises a thrilling ride. The instructor ensures safety and proper technique, making it suitable for beginners with some water experience. Reviewers mention the instructor’s patience and the adrenaline rush of riding above the water.
Ideal for adventurous travelers or those who want to learn a new sport, this lesson provides a sense of accomplishment and a unique way to enjoy the marine environment. The main drawback is the cost, but for a once-in-a-lifetime skill, many find it worth the investment.
Bottom Line: A niche but exciting watersport lesson for thrill-seekers interested in mastering foilboarding.
$214 per group up to 2
6. Phone Photography
Finally, the Phone Photography session offers a 30-minute guided photo shoot at sunset or in scenic spots. Costing $100 per group (up to 14), it’s perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting stunning photos without needing a professional camera. The instructor will help you get the best shots with your phone, capturing memories at the beach or during sunset.
What makes this tour special is its emphasis on capturing the moment. Reviewers appreciate the personalized tips and the variety of locations, making your photos truly memorable. It’s especially suitable for those who want to document their trip without lugging around bulky equipment or paying for professional shoots.
If you’re planning a family trip or celebrating a special occasion, this quick session guarantees great photos and lasting memories. It’s an affordable way to upgrade your vacation album.
Bottom Line: An efficient, practical photo session that ensures your trip’s memories are beautifully preserved.
$100 per group up to 14
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Marathon, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you want to dedicate. For a romantic evening, the Sunset Champagne Cruise offers a peaceful, scenic experience. Families or active travelers might prefer the Rhum Runner Aqua Park or the Sandbar Excursion for fun and relaxation. If marine life is your focus, the Snorkeling Adventure is a top pick. For the adventurous, the Foilboarding offers a unique skills challenge, while photographers will love the Phone Photography session.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular sunset cruises and specialized experiences like foilboarding. Think about your group’s energy level, interests, and whether you want a relaxing, active, or photo-focused day.
Final Thoughts
Marathon Florida has a rich menu of tours that cater to different tastes and travel styles. For those seeking romance, the Sunset Champagne Cruise is hard to beat, while families and active adventurers will find plenty of fun in the sandbar or watersports. Marine explorers will enjoy the vibrant coral at Sombrero Reef, and thrill-seekers can try foilboarding or splash around in the aqua park.
No matter your choice, booking in advance ensures you secure your preferred date and time. Take the time to match your interests and budget with the right experience, and you’ll leave Marathon with wonderful memories and plenty of stories to tell.