Island Sandbar Tour Catamaran Cruise in Marathon FL

Experience a Classic Florida Keys Sandbar Adventure on a Comfortable Catamaran

Imagine sailing out on a spacious 53-foot catamaran through the calm waters of Marathon, FL, where your destination is a pristine sandbar just waiting for you to enjoy. For about four hours, you’ll cruise past scenic landmarks like Seven Mile Bridge and Boot Key Harbor, with knowledgeable crew sharing stories and local tidbits. The price of $130 per person might seem like a fair investment for such a laid-back, family-friendly outing that balances comfort, fun, and stunning natural surroundings.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the ample space on the boat—there’s plenty to move around, plus shaded seating and onboard restrooms—and the well-equipped amenities like water floats, noodles, paddleboards, and a cooler full of drinks and snacks. The relaxed vibe makes it ideal for those who want a stress-free time on the water.

However, a potential consideration is the dependence on good weather—since it’s an outdoor activity, rain or rough seas could disrupt the plan, although the tour does offer full refunds or rescheduling options. This experience is best suited for families, couples, or groups who enjoy gentle sailing, scenic views, and swimming in warm, shallow waters.

Key Points

• Comfortable Catamaran: A spacious, family-friendly vessel with shaded areas and onboard restrooms.
• Beautiful Scenery: Cruise past iconic landmarks like Seven Mile Bridge and Boot Key Harbor, offering plenty of photo opportunities.
• Relaxing Sandbar Stop: Enjoy swimming, floating, and relaxing in shallow, turquoise waters, with water floats, noodles, and paddleboards included.
• All-Inclusive Snacks & Drinks: Soda, water, snacks, and a cooler with ice make for a refreshing, no-hassle outing.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellations: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with weather considerations and group size limits.

A Detailed Look at the Island Sandbar Catamaran Tour

Setting Sail from Marathon for a Classic Keys Experience

Starting at 1 Knights Key Blvd, this tour promises a leisurely escape from the hustle of daily life. The 4-hour duration offers enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed, making it perfect for a half-day adventure. Once aboard, you’ll cruise through Boot Key Harbor, a calm, sheltered waterway surrounded by mangroves and boats, giving you a taste of local life. As your crew narrates the sights, you’ll cruise past Seven Mile Bridge, one of the most recognizable structures in the Keys, known for its impressive length and stunning views.

The Scenic Journey: Landmarks and Local Insights

The cruise itself is part sightseeing, part relaxing ride, with commentary from the crew about the area’s history, geography, and local lore. Passengers have noted that the “pleasant ride out to the sandbar” is a highlight, thanks to the calm waters and scenic surroundings. The route offers a chance to appreciate the unique beauty of the Florida Keys, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the bridge, harbor, and passing boats.

The Sandbar Stop: Relaxing in Shallow Waters

Once you arrive at the sandbar, the fun kicks in. The shallow turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and floating, and the water floats and noodles provided make it easy to unwind. Many reviews highlight how “the sandbar was so nice” and perfect for a relaxed, scenic swim. If you prefer to stay dry, simply lounge on the deck, soaking up the sunshine, listening to music, or chatting with your group.

Amenities that Make the Experience Comfortable

The onboard amenities include shaded seating—important for staying cool—and restrooms, which are a welcome convenience during a four-hour trip. The cooler with soda, water, and snacks adds to the laid-back vibe, helping you stay refreshed as you enjoy the natural surroundings.

Inclusions and Extras: Value for Money

For $130, you get a lot of value: the cruise, the scenic sightseeing, the water toys, snacks, and drinks. The “BYOB” policy allows bringing your own beverages, which can be a fun way to customize your experience. The tour is also designed to be inclusive, with most travelers able to participate and service animals allowed.

Considerations for Potential Travelers

While the experience is largely positive, keep in mind that bad weather could lead to cancellations, though the policy allows for full refunds or rescheduling. Towels are not provided, so bring your own if you want to dry off; and glass containers aren’t permitted for safety reasons.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

The reviews paint a vivid picture: one reviewer called it a “sandbar spectacular” for the professional staff and loads of fun. They also noted that as long as the weather is good, the trip is “surely pleasant”. Another review highlights how Captain Jeff and Captain Ryan made the trip especially enjoyable, emphasizing that friendly, attentive guides can genuinely elevate the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic outings—whether you’re a family with kids, a couple seeking a romantic afternoon, or friends wanting a fun day on the water. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate beautiful views, easy swimming, and a comfortable, unhurried pace. Those looking for an active adventure with lots of gadgets might find it too mellow, but for most, it’s just right.

The Sum Up: A Relaxed, Scenic, and Authentic Keys Experience

This Island Sandbar Tour Catamaran Cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and fun. You’ll love the chance to cruise past iconic landmarks like Seven Mile Bridge, and then unwind on the sandbar with swimming, floating, and soaking up the sunshine. The amenities and friendly crew create an inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for those who want a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water.

For travelers who value authentic landscapes and a laid-back vibe, this tour delivers. It’s particularly ideal if you’re looking for a family-friendly, well-equipped, and relatively inexpensive way to experience the natural beauty of the Florida Keys. Just remember to check the weather forecast, bring your towels, and enjoy the easygoing pace that this trip offers.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, giving enough time for cruising, relaxing at the sandbar, and enjoying the scenery.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 1 Knights Key Blvd, Marathon, FL, and returns to the same location at the end of the trip.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the catamaran cruise, snacks, soda, water, a cooler with ice, water floats, pool noodles, and paddleboards.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, the tour has a BYOB policy, so you can bring your favorite beverages along.

Are there restrooms onboard?
Yes, the boat is equipped with restrooms for passenger convenience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, the tour is family-friendly and well-suited for children who enjoy swimming and water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. Towel service isn’t provided, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour dependent on weather conditions?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations, but the company offers full refunds or rescheduling options.

How many people can join?
The tour has a maximum of 43 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic views, the relaxed atmosphere, and friendly guides makes it a memorable Keys adventure.

This tour offers a straightforward, authentic way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Florida Keys without fuss or fussiness. It’s perfect for those looking to relax, swim, and enjoy scenic vistas with plenty of space and comfort.