There is a secret world out in the backcountry (the Gulf of Mexico) of mangrove islands and turquoise water over clean white sand. People who come to Key West expecting ocean beaches with reef snorkeling 2 feet out from shore should realize that this pristine world in the gulf -- not our meager ocean beachfront -- is the great place to be in the Keys. In fact, it's one of the great places anywhere, a place to be in nature. If you're in this area at low tide, an occasional sandbar rises from the water; even at high tide, the water is quite shallow and you can plunk down beach chairs and umbrellas in the sand. It is magical. I'm a Key Wester but I myself only discovered this world recently. I've been out several times this year on different boats, some friends' boats, some charters. Of the charters, Blue Chi is absolutely my favorite and Capt. Donnie the best captain I've been out with. The boat has shade, which is essential out on the water. the sun can be brutal. And many boats don't have it. Also, it leaves from Stock Island, which is a good setting off point, saving you a lot of boating time to the mangroves and sandbars. Tourists should realize that this is not a reef area and they won't see many colorful tropical fish, like they will out in the ocean. It is a much more subtle, subdued underwater environment, but snorkeling is still magical. You just shouldn't expect a technicolor reef. These sandbars are where locals go for fun, and they can be very crowded on weekends. People are partying. If you want solitude, go on a week day and tell your captain exactly what you want. Donnie is especially responsive, energetic, and pleasant to be with, not intruding himself but eager to get you the experience you want. Jacki, who does the booking, couldn't be better or more helpful. This is a small operation and to my mind the best.
Одговор домаћина
Sep 2022
When you get it, you get it! We could've said it better and we're so grateful that you chose us to have this experience. Thank you so much for the in depth review and for sharing your insight and love for the back country. We agree, it is a magical place, for sure. We hope to see you again very soon! Thank you so much, Jackie