Marathon Coffins Patch Reef Snorkel & Sandbar Tour

Marathon Coffins Patch Reef Snorkel & Sandbar Tour: An Honest Overview

Thinking about booking a snorkel and sandbar trip in the Florida Keys? If so, this tour with Solé Watersports in Marathon might catch your eye. It’s a popular choice, especially given its high marks and the fact that it’s Florida Mom owned, which often rings true for a warm, welcoming experience. But as with any adventure, it’s worth digging into what’s really on offer before you commit.

What we love about this experience is how it balances snorkel time with pure relaxation. The stops at Coffin’s Patch, with its wreckage remains from a Spanish Galleon, and the Grassy Key Sandbar, with its shallow waters and floating mats, create a nice mix of activity and chill-out time. Plus, the crew’s reputation for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive really makes a difference—especially on days with tricky weather.

One thing to keep in mind is the requirement for proficient swimming skills. Conditions can vary, and in some reviews, visibility or weather constraints limited what travelers could see underwater. For those who aren’t comfortable in open water or not strong swimmers, this might be a consideration. Still, if you’re eager to explore the Keys’ marine life and enjoy some laid-back sunshine, this tour could suit you well.

This tour tends to appeal most to travelers who want a balanced mix of snorkeling, relaxing on the water, and enjoying the scenic views of the Keys. It’s suitable for those who don’t mind a little wind or wave action and appreciate a crew that’s dedicated to making the trip enjoyable. If you’re after an authentic, friendly, and visually stunning experience, keep reading.

Key Points

• Great balance of snorkeling and relaxation with stops at Coffin’s Patch and the Sandbar.
• Friendly, knowledgeable crew that’s attentive to guests’ needs.
• Conditions can vary, so be prepared for weather and water fluctuations.
• Proficient swimming skills are required for safe participation.
• All snorkel gear and water toys are included, plus beverages and restrooms.
• The price offers good value for the length and variety of the experience.

What Is the Marathon Coffins Patch Snorkel & Sandbar Tour?

This is a roughly 3.5-hour adventure in the Keys, operated by Solé Watersports, a highly-rated local company known for its friendly service and well-organized trips. It offers a mixture of reef snorkeling, shallow-water exploration, and time to relax with friends or family on a floating mat.

The tour starts at the Marathon Marina, around 10am, and takes you out to two main stops: Coffin’s Patch Reef and the Grassy Key Sandbar. The entire experience is designed to give you a taste of Keys’ marine beauty without feeling rushed.

At $139 per person, it’s a solid price considering all that’s included: snorkel gear, noodles, floating mats, water, and ice-cold drinks. Plus, there’s a restroom on the boat for convenience. If you’re looking for a fun, hassle-free way to spend a few hours on the water, it’s a budget-friendly option.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

First Stop: Coffin’s Patch Reef

The snorkeling here is the main event. Coffin’s Patch is a protected sanctuary with some wreckage from a shipwreck dating back to approximately 1733. It’s a shallow reef, about 8-15 feet deep, making it accessible for most snorkelers, but you should be comfortable in open water.

What makes this stop special is the chance to see abundant tropical sea life and remnants of old shipwrecks. The reef is part of a preservable area, so you’ll generally find calmer waters, clearer visibility, and a variety of coral and fish. According to reviews, some guests loved the experience, with one noting, “the reef was great,” and others appreciating the crew for their care, especially on windier days.

However, some reviews mention that snorkeling conditions can be rough due to wind and waves. One reviewer pointed out that visibility might not always be perfect, and currents can fluctuate. That’s worth considering if you’re not an experienced snorkeler or don’t enjoy choppy waters.

Second Stop: Grassy Key Sandbar

After the reef, the boat makes its way to the sandbar, a shallow, white sandy area just 1-4 feet deep. Here, the focus shifts to relaxing. You’ll find plenty of floating toys—giant mats, noodles, and balls—that make lounging a breeze. Many guests describe it as a perfect way to soak up the Florida sunshine and unwind after snorkeling.

In the reviews, people mention how much they enjoyed floating on the water or simply lying back and taking in the scenery. The shallow waters are inviting, and the water toys add a playful touch. One guest said, “Floating in the sandbar was the perfect way to end the trip,” which sums up this stop nicely.

The sandbar’s conditions depend on the weather. On windy days, it may be more choppy or less clear, but even then, the laid-back vibe and fun floating options tend to shine through.

What You Can Expect on the Water

The boat itself is described as larger than expected, comfortably fitting up to 40 guests, ensuring you won’t feel cramped. The crew is consistently praised for their friendliness and expertise, guiding you about the marine environment and keeping an eye on safety.

The water toys and floating mats are included, so you don’t need to bring your own gear unless you want extras. Water and iced coolers are also provided, which is great for staying refreshed in the sun. Be aware that snacks and additional beverages can be bought from the marina store if you crave something extra.

The entire trip is around three and a half hours, with the main snorkeling and floating segments each lasting about an hour. The actual time spent snorkeling or relaxing at each stop depends on weather conditions and the group’s energy.

The Weather and Conditions

Many reviews mention that weather can vary. Some days, the ocean might be a little rough with higher waves, which can impact snorkeling visibility or comfort. A few travelers noted that conditions weren’t ideal, but the crew did their best to make everyone comfortable and still enjoy the trip.

On windy days, the crew suggested the potential for less visibility in the water, and some reviews mention the possibility of jellyfish stings—though not everyone was affected. If you’re concerned about water temperature or roughness, you might want to ask about wetsuits or plan for flexible expectations.

One reviewer pointed out that the crew could have been more upfront about weather conditions, but overall, most guests found the experience enjoyable despite some weather hiccups. The crew’s attentiveness helps ensure safety and fun, even in less-than-perfect water.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous snorkelers comfortable in open water, given the requirement for proficiency in swimming. It’s a good fit if you want a combination of reef exploration and laid-back floating on the sandbar, especially if you appreciate friendly service and well-organized outings.

It’s also great for small groups or families looking for a manageable, fun outing. While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the shallow waters and floating mats are appealing for those who like to relax and play in the water, though very young children or less confident swimmers might want to consider their comfort level.

Travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides—especially with dolphins or other wildlife sometimes spotted—will probably find this tour very satisfying.

Value for Money

At $139, this tour offers a lot—snorkel gear, water toys, beverages, and a friendly crew. Compared to other excursions in the Keys, it’s a fairly competitive price for the experience provided, especially considering the mix of activities.

While some guests noted that snorkeling conditions can be hit or miss, the overall value comes from the combination of relaxing and active components, as well as the quality of the crew. If you’re seeking a straightforward, enjoyable Keys adventure with a good chance of seeing marine life and enjoying beautiful scenery, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

The Marathon Coffins Patch Reef & Sandbar Tour from Solé Watersports offers a friendly, well-organized way to experience some of the best that the Keys have to offer. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed day on the water, with a healthy dose of snorkel exploration mixed with floating and soaking up the sun. The tour’s success depends partly on weather conditions, but the crew’s attentiveness and the scenery make it worthwhile.

If you’re comfortable swimming and looking for an authentic, fun Keys experience that balances adventure with relaxation, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate excellent customer service and don’t mind a little wind or chop in the water.

For anyone wanting a memorable day in the Keys—seeing tropical fish, exploring shallow reefs, and lounging on a floating mat with friends or family—this trip is likely to satisfy.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, you need to be a proficient swimmer to participate safely, as conditions can vary and require comfort in open water.

What’s included in the price?
All snorkel gear, noodles, floating mats, water, iced coolers, and access to restrooms on the boat are included.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with about an hour at each stop—snorkeling at Coffin’s Patch and relaxing at the Sandbar.

Are there any age restrictions?
The info doesn’t specify, but given the water activities and proficiency requirements, it’s best suited for older children and adults comfortable in open water.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and possibly a towel. Be sure to have water shoes if you prefer, and consider a waterproof camera.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Conditions can be unpredictable, so flexibility helps.

Can I buy snacks or extra drinks?
Snacks and additional beverages are available for purchase at the marina store; drinks on the boat are included.

Is there a restroom on the boat?
Yes, the boat has a restroom for guest convenience.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 40 travelers, which keeps the group manageable and makes for a more personal experience.

Thinking of exploring the Keys in a relaxed, scenic way? This tour fits the bill, especially if you’re looking for a friendly crew and beautiful underwater sights. Just keep an eye on the weather, and you’ll have a fun day on the water.