Snorkel & Paddle Eco-Adventure

An intimate exploration of Biscayne National Park!

Join us for an intimate exploration of the waters of Biscayne National Park on our 23′ powerboat Biscayne Explorer. On a full-day guided trip, with only six people, you might paddle Jones Lagoon looking for the rare Roseate Spoonbill, snorkel a shipwreck on the Maritime Heritage Trail, or watch the amazing diversity of life on the coral reef. Keep a lookout for the dolphins, rays, and sea turtles that live here. Where you go each day is based on the day’s weather and your group’s special interests. Your guide is a Captain on the Biscayne National Park Institute staff who teaches you about the different habitats in the park and how they interact with each other along with history of the area.

Trips start and end at the park headquarters behind the Dante Fascell Visitor Center. Arrive and check in at the Park store after 10 a.m. Board your boat at 10:15 a.m. to cross Biscayne Bay and get in the water on your morning adventure paddling and/or snorkeling. Stop for lunch ashore on a barrier island and then start your afternoon adventure paddling and/or snorkeling. Return across the bay to the Visitor Center arriving at about 4:30 p.m.

Location:

This guided Biscayne National Park paddle trip visits Jones Lagoon and offers the chance to snorkel a shipwreck on the Maritime Heritage Trail. The location is dependent on several factors and your group’s interest.

Equipment:

In order to more closely explore the reefs, shipwrecks and mangrove forests, we supply stand up paddleboards and paddles. Snorkeling gear can be rented from the park store. Fins and snorkels are $3 per person and masks are $2. Rent the complete set for $8. For the best fit, please bring your own gear if you have it. We have a library of relevant books on board that includes fish and invertebrate identification books. Our boats are rigged with shade, and there are also some areas where you can relax in the sun.

Meals:

NOTE: Lunch is not included! Please bring your own lunch and snacks so you don’t go hungry on our full-day adventure!

Important Medical and Liability Release Information and Waivers for Snorkeling:

Each person in your party will need to sign a Medical Statement and Liability Release. Below are copies of the required waivers. Please read the following Medical Statement and Liability Release before reserving. We suggest you print and fill out the waivers below and bring them with you on the day of your trip to speed the check-in process. If there is a minor in you party (under the age of 18), to be compliant with the requirements of the state of Florida, an additional waiver must be signed by the child’s Natural Parent or Natural Guardian, not just an adult accompanying the child at the time. 

Snorkeling is an exciting and demanding activity. When performed correctly, applying correct techniques, it is relatively safe. However, there are certain medical conditions that increase risk.  If you have a medical condition described on the Medical Statement or any other condition that would be contrary to safe participation in any in-water activities, you must provide documentation that you sought the advice of a physician prior to engaging in snorkeling activities.

Liability Release

Liability Release for Minors

Medical Statement

Physician Release