Snorkelers floating over a vibrant coral reef with the Sombrero Reef lighthouse behind them
Marathon, Florida

Sombrero Reef Snorkeling

Snorkel the world's 3rd largest barrier reef aboard the Marathon Mermaid.

From  $85.95 3 Hours All Ages
Marathon Reef Snorkeling Tour

Explore Coral Reefs & Marine Life at the World's 3rd Largest Barrier Reef!

We will take you to the famous Sombrero Key Light Reef, the World's 3rd Largest Barrier Reef, on the fastest, newest and most comfortable boat in Marathon to embark on an unforgettable aquatic adventure as you join us to snorkel!

First, you will get a luxury ride aboard the beautiful Marathon Mermaid out to the protected reef to see first hand the beautiful ecosystem that the Florida Keys is famous for. Enjoy the views as you glide through the crystal-clear waters on our state-of-the-art vessel, designed for both speed and comfort, ensuring you reach the Sombrero Key Light Reef swiftly and comfortably.

As you snorkel, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world, guided by our top-rated equipment and crew to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, as you witness the kaleidoscope of marine life that calls this reef home.

After your exploration, unwind on the return journey with refreshing beverages, savoring the memories of your remarkable reef encounter.

What we bring

  • Top-rated snorkel equipment
  • A guiding crew for a safe, enjoyable reef experience
  • Water, soda, light snacks
  • Refreshing beverages on the return journey
  • Comfortable cushioned seating, shade and a bathroom onboard

What to bring

  • A towel
  • Reef-safe sunscreen (or we will provide you with some)
  • Sunglasses
  • A refillable water bottle
  • Anything else you need to enjoy your ride on the boat

We provide water, soda, light snacks. You may bring anything to eat or drink on the boat. No glass or hard alcohol will be permitted aboard.

Please note: if you are not used to being on a boat we do suggest taking Dramamine or Bonamine (motion sickness prevention medication) the night before and the morning of to help prevent sea sickness. Being on vacation where you are eating and drinking things you don't usually consume and then being on a boat, even the calmest of days people can be subject to getting seasick.

Snorkelers floating over a vibrant coral reef with the Sombrero Reef lighthouse behind them The Marathon Mermaid catamaran cruising past the Sombrero Reef lighthouse over vivid blue water Snorkelers by a reef tower with a dense school of fish in the clear water A yellowtail snapper gliding over a coral reef in clear water An aerial view of the catamaran with snorkelers over a dramatic coral reef The Morada Mermaid catamaran and snorkelers beside a reef lighthouse in brilliant clear turquoise water
Good to Know

Reef snorkeling questions

We start all check-ins 30 minutes prior to departure. You must be at the dock no later than 15 minutes before check-in or we may not allow you on the charter and no refund will be given.

Yes. We provide top-rated snorkel equipment, and our crew is with you the whole time to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience out on the reef.

You do not need to be an expert swimmer. We have flotation vests available and our crew keeps a constant lookout so everyone can enjoy the reef comfortably.

If you are not used to being on a boat we do suggest taking Dramamine or Bonamine (motion sickness prevention medication) the night before and the morning of to help prevent sea sickness. Being on vacation where you are eating and drinking things you don't usually consume and then being on a boat, even the calmest of days people can be subject to getting seasick.

Please bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen (or we will provide you with some), sunglasses, a refillable water bottle and anything else you need to enjoy your ride on the boat. We provide water, soda, light snacks. No glass or hard alcohol is permitted aboard.

Yes. There is a bathroom onboard the Marathon Mermaid.

Guest Reviews

What our guests say

4.9 out of 5, 1,300 Tripadvisor reviews. Number 1 of 161 Outdoor Activities in Marathon.

Reef Snorkel Was Great!

Went out on the reef snorkeling trip with Captain Dawn and Brandon. Had a fantastic time! They were engaging, informative and fun. Boat was super clean and they take pride in keeping it that way. Just an overall great experience! We will certainly book again next time we're in Marathon.

Jon B.Tripadvisor

Great Snorkel Adventure

Had a fantastic snorkel excursion for a family group of 15. Captain Dawn and Brandon kept things flowing so there was plenty of water time, and kept a constant lookout safety-wise. Would highly recommend this trip to anyone in the Marathon area.

Linda D.Tripadvisor

Great Snorkel Trip!

Enjoyed the snorkel trip to Sombrero Reef. A good variety of fish to see and the pontoon boat was not too crowded. Capt Dawn and the first mate were very attentive and ensured everyone had what they needed.

Jim-Bob-98Tripadvisor

Marathon Mermaid Magic!

Fantastic trip on The Marathon Mermaid. Captain Katies & Allison took us on an amazing 1/2 day snorkel aboard their beautiful boat. We saw turtles, manatees, lots of fish, sea ray, dolphins & some were lucky enough to see a hammerhead shark!! Great crew, fun & professional!

Stacy S.Tripadvisor

Such An Amazing Time!

We did all of the activities they offered, the sunset cruise with Brandon and an amazing captain, and the snorkel and sandbar with Allison and Katy, who were so much fun to hang out with! If I could put 10 stars, I would. This is definitely a must do if you are visiting!

Dani W.Tripadvisor

A Perfect Day Snorkeling

A perfect day snorkeling for my 15 and 12 year old and me. Dawn and Brandon were so helpful and made us all feel very comfortable snorkeling the beautiful reef. They kept it fun while keeping us safe. We also appreciated how they truly care about the environment and preserving the reef. Would do this trip again in a heartbeat.

Sarah S.Tripadvisor
Ready when you are

Ready for your day on the water?

An aerial view of the Morada Mermaid catamaran over turquoise water with guests on floating mats and paddleboards Two Mermaids. One Family.

Heading north during your Keys vacation?

Meet Morada Mermaid in Islamorada. Our sister boat runs snorkeling, sandbar days and sunset cruises on an entirely different stretch of the Florida Keys. Spend one day with us in Marathon, then experience Islamorada with the newest member of the Mermaid family.

Explore Morada Mermaid
The Mermaid Double Dip

Book both locations during the same Keys vacation and receive a 15% discount.

Experience Both
From $85.95
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