Common questions from travelers booking through Florida Sandbar Tours.
November-April is peak season: warm, dry, and the best chance of clear water for snorkeling. May-October has more rain and bigger crowds in summer; hurricane season runs June-November (peak Aug-Sept). Spring break (March) is the busiest single month.
No. The Florida Keys are part of the U.S. — domestic ID required (REAL ID, passport, or military).
Drive (4 hours from Miami via the Overseas Highway), fly into Key West Airport (KEYW), or take the Key West Express ferry from Fort Myers/Marco Island (3 hours). Most cruise ships also stop in Key West.
1-2 weeks ahead during peak season (Dec-April, especially during cruise ship days). Most other times of year, day-of availability is common. Private charters typically book 2+ weeks ahead.
Reef-safe sunscreen (mandatory in Florida Keys waters), swimsuit, towel, water, light snack. Most operators provide snorkel gear and water; full-day trips often include lunch. A waterproof phone case for photos is useful.
Some catamaran-style boats have accessibility ramps; smaller charter boats often do not. Each operator lists accessibility info on the tour page; if you need a specific accommodation, message the operator before booking.
Most operators allow free cancellation 24-48 hours before; some require 72-hour notice for private charters. Weather rescheduling is always free same-day.
Yes — wild bottlenose dolphins are present in the Keys year-round. Dolphin sighting rates on dedicated dolphin tours are typically 90%+; sandbar trips often see them as a bonus.
Most sandbar trips allow ages 4+. Snorkel tours typically 6+. Sunset cruises usually allow infants. Each tour page lists the operator's age policy.
Most Key West tours depart from Stock Island Marina Village or the Historic Seaport (Sunset Pier area). Stock Island has the deeper basin and bigger boats; the Historic Seaport is closer to Old Town hotels.