Kurt was the captain for the trip I was on. He was very attentive to every guest and made everyone feel comfortable out on the water. He also shared lots of facts about the area and things as we passed them. I appreciated that it didn’t feel like a rote speech he had given for years and now hated. It felt like a conversation with the small group on the boat. The boat and all equipment seemed very new, in great repair, and clean.
The location we snorkeled at had so many shells it was insane. There were tons of very large and unbroken shells everywhere. Several people also found sand dollars. Captain Kurt was careful to explain we would not take anything alive and explained how to identify what is alive. The current was very strong where we stopped, but everyone was safe following directions not to go where you can’t stand. I just wanted to collect a couple of shells for my grandmother’s gravesite, so I didn’t spend too much time actually shell hunting. However, I had a great time looking through everything and watching the little crab type things. So, even if you aren’t huge into snorkeling, there’s tons for your to look at. If you are like me and bring a float everywhere to float in, the current swept me off in two seconds flat. So, swimming without floats is probably best. I’m very glad I booked this and went even though I am traveling alone.
Take the warnings seriously about arriving early. They board early and leave promptly or as soon as everyone is there. It’s hot sitting on the boat even if it is shaded, so I felt awful when I barely made it before the boat left and the other people had been waiting. If you follow maps it doesn’t take you right there, so be careful to build in extra time. If you’re like me and get hungover and can’t follow directions to save your life, build in a really solid block of extra time. There’s a nice place right next door where you can sit and get a drink.
Wear lots of sunscreen, bring a towel, and sunglasses are really helpful. Mascara gets wet even in the mask, but honestly not a single person cared. Tips can thankfully be done in cash or electronically.