Key West Schooner Appledore Backcountry Eco-Tour: Sail, Snorkel & Kayak

The tandem kayaks Cool Key West used on Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco-Tour comfortably hold two paddlers and are extremely stable, much more than solo kayaks. It’s actually quite difficult to tip a tandem kayak over. Capsizes happen to fewer than 1 out of 100 participants. Nearly all capsizes are a result of water fights and other sorts of goofing around.

The reef snorkel is 4-15 ft.

The maximum weight capacity for kayaking is 340 lbs / 154 kg.

Yes, we allow pregnant women to go on snorkeling. However, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before doing so to assess your individual health and pregnancy stage.

Yes, this is possible, as long as you are comfortable going into the water. All Cool Key West snorkeling tours adhere to strict safety regulations and have been designed to be enjoyed by all.

Your safety is our #1 priority, which is why:

1. You will be wearing a flotation device at all times.
2. On many tours, there is a stairway from the boat into the water so you won’t have to “jump” in!
3. There are trained staff in the water and watching from the boat at all times.

For these reasons, we believe that even non-swimmers can have a wonderful time on our snorkeling trips, however, the final judgment call is yours to make. Please note we do not give refunds if you decide not to snorkel on the trip.

The snorkel gear we use on Cool Key West tours is high quality and for your protection, the equipment is sanitized after each use. However, if you feel more comfortable using your own snorkeling equipment, feel free to bring it on the tour. Please note, there is no discount for providing your own equipment and we can’t be responsible for any lost or damaged items.

No experience is necessary! Beginners are welcome on all of our kayak tours. Most of our guests have never been in a sea kayak before. Anyone in average physical condition may join a kayak tour. If you can hike or bike, you can paddle our sea kayaks. You do not need any swimming skills either.

The only prerequisite is a healthy spirit of curiosity and adventure.

Regardless of age or skill level you will find that our expeditions offer enough flexibility to make your experience with us safe and rewarding. We will show you proper sea kayaking technique and water safety before leaving the beach. And your expert guides will be with you throughout the adventure to give you pointers and improve your skills.

First-time snorkelers can be assured of one-on-one instruction and assistance. We find introducing folks to our world very rewarding!

Your safety is Cool Key West’s number one concern. In general, sea kayaking is safer than most other outdoor pursuits, even bicycling.

There are no legal age limits for snorkeling. We have found that age 5 or 6 is a good age to learn the basics of snorkeling, however, it’s entirely up to individuals to make the best choice for their family.

If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Key West Schooner Backcountry Eco-Tour will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Key West. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.