Best Fort Lauderdale Snorkeling Tours For Exploring Stunning Coral Reefs

Fort Lauderdale vacation? Sun, sand, beaches. What else is there? Hidden treasure! If you love an active getaway be sure to take time to check out the best Fort Lauderdale snorkeling adventures in this area during your vacation.

With crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life, snorkeling in Ft Lauderdale is an experience not to be missed. It is one of my favorite destinations and best places for beginners as well as experienced snorkelers to explore our underwater world.

There are also a variety of fantastic snorkeling tours available in Fort Lauderdale. Each offering a unique experience.

Some tours take visitors to explore the coral reefs and shipwrecks off the coast, while others offer the chance to swim with a wide variety of marine life including sea turtles, dolphins, and other marine animals. 

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Many tours also provide all the necessary equipment, including snorkels, fins, and life jackets, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the experience without having to bring their own snorkel gear. 

Whether you are a first-time snorkeler or an experienced diver, there is a tour in Fort Lauderdale that is perfect for you. Grab your snorkeling gear and get ready to explore the crystal clear waters in Ft. Lauderdale and the surrounding areas.

Fun fact. Fort Lauderdale is often referred to as the “Venice of America” due to its extensive network of canals and waterways.

The city has over 165 miles of navigable waterways, which are used for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and kayaking. 

At the bottom of this article, I have listed the top 5 picks for the ultimate snorkeling tours experience in Fort Lauderdale along with other helpful links to plan your trip. If you want to jump to a specific tour, you can do that with this table of contents:

Why Fort Lauderdale is a Top Snorkeling Destination

Fort Lauderdale is a popular destination for snorkeling enthusiasts due to its warm waters, diverse marine life, and unique underwater landscapes.

Snorkeling in Fort Lauderdale is an experience that shouldn’t be missed, and there are several reasons why it’s considered one of the top snorkeling destinations.

What Makes the Waters in Fort Lauderdale So Good for Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

The waters in Fort Lauderdale are warm and clear, making them an ideal environment for snorkeling and scuba diving. The Gulf Stream current flows close to the shore, bringing with it a variety of marine life that thrives in the warm waters.

The coral reefs and shipwrecks in the area also attract a diverse range of fish and other sea creatures, making it an exciting place to explore.

What You Can See When Snorkeling in Fort Lauderdale

Snorkeling in Fort Lauderdale gives you the opportunity to see a wide range of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, rays, and even sharks.

The coral reefs and shipwrecks in the area are also home to a variety of interesting creatures, such as lobsters, octopuses, and eels.

The clear waters allow for excellent visibility, making it easy to spot these beautiful creatures as you explore the underwater world.

Shipwreck Snorkel Trail

The Shipwreck Snorkel Trail is a popular snorkeling destination located off the coast of Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Florida. The trail consists of a series of three shipwrecks that have been intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef. 

The wrecks are located in shallow waters, making them accessible to snorkelers of all skill levels. The first wreck on the trail is the SS Copenhagen, a 325-foot steel cargo ship that was intentionally sunk to the ocean floor in 1985. See directly below for more information.

The second wreck is the Lofthus, a 175-foot Norwegian steamship that was sunk in 1898. The third and final wreck is the Mohawk, a 165-foot Coast Guard cutter that was sunk in 2012.

SS Copenhagen

The shipwreck in Lauderdale By The Sea is a 1970s-era steel ship that was intentionally sunk in 1985 to create an artificial reef.

Today it is a popular diving site for scuba divers as well as a great snorkeling site, with a variety of marine life living in and around the wreck. 

A great way to see this wreck is with one of the snorkel tours below. This will all you to explore the SS Copenhagen wreck with a certified diving guide or snorkel guide around the perimeter to see the marine life.

Beautiful Coral Reef System

Fort Lauderdale is located in South Florida, which is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. Clear open water with an average water temperature ranging from 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter to 88 degrees in the summer.

Here are some of the best coral reefs to snorkel in Fort Lauderdale:

1. Lauderdale-By-The-Sea: This area is home to the SS Copenhagen shipwreck, which has become an artificial reef and is home to a variety of marine life.
2. John U. Lloyd Beach State Park: This park boasts a beautiful coral reef that is home to a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life.
3. Deerfield Beach: This beach has a beautiful coral reef that is located just offshore and is home to a variety of colorful fish and other marine creatures.
4. Pompano Beach: This beach has a beautiful coral reef that is home to a variety of tropical fish and other marine life.
5. Hollywood Beach: This beach has a beautiful coral reef that is located just offshore and is home to a variety of colorful fish and other marine creatures.

It is important to note that snorkelers should always follow responsible snorkeling practices and avoid touching or damaging the coral reefs. This includes your feet. Be sure not to step on any part of the reef.

Additionally, it is recommended to go snorkeling with a certified guide or instructor to ensure safety and to learn more about the marine life in the area.

It is important to be aware of divers in the same areas as snorkelers. You should see a dive flag for anyone scuba diving.

Twin Ledges

Twin Ledges is a popular dive site located off the coast of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The site is known for its two parallel ledges that run north and south, with the deeper ledge starting at around 70 feet and the shallower ledge at around 40 feet. 

The ledges are covered in colorful corals and sponges, and are home to a variety of marine life, including reef fish, sea turtles, and occasional nurse sharks.

While Twin Ledges is primarily a dive site, it is also possible to snorkel around the perimeter of the ledges to see the marine life. However, due to the depth of the site, it is a good idea for snorkelers to have some experience and are comfortable in deeper water. 

It is also important to note that snorkeling at Twin Ledges is subject to weather and sea conditions. Be sure to best to check with local authorities if you will be going out on your own.

If you are a beginner, be sure to connect with one of the local expert guides as this is one destination you do not want to go alone unless you are an experienced snorkeler.

Why You Should Consider a Snorkeling Tour

While it’s possible to snorkel on your own in Fort Lauderdale, a guided snorkeling tour is highly recommended.

A tour guide can take you to the best snorkeling spots, provide you with equipment, and give you valuable information about the marine life you’ll encounter.

They can also ensure your safety and help you navigate the underwater terrain.

Top Fort Lauderdale Snorkeling Tours

If you’re planning a trip to Fort Lauderdale and want to experience the beauty of the ocean up close, snorkeling is a must-do activity. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best tour. 

If you are planning an all day excursion, your tour operator will probably set an early morning departure time. Be sure to check the cancellation policies when you book in case something comes up, and you cannot make the tour.

Here are our top 5 picks for the ultimate snorkeling experience in Fort Lauderdale, complete with breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.

Sea Experience Snorkeling Adventure.

Sea Experience Snorkeling Adventure is a top-rated guided tour that offers a unique and exciting experience for snorkelers of all levels. The tour takes you to two different locations, each with its own unique marine life and coral formations. 

You’ll have the opportunity to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even shipwrecks. The tour includes all necessary snorkel equipment including snorkel gear and life jacket as well as a knowledgeable guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure!

Fort Lauderdale Glass Bottom Boat and Snorkeling Tour.

If you’re looking for a unique snorkeling experience in the waters of Fort Lauderdale, the Glass Bottom Boat Tours as well as Snorkeling Tour is a must-try. This tour takes you on a glass-bottom boat ride to see the stunning coral reefs and marine life from above, before stopping at a prime snorkel site.

You’ll have the chance to see tropical fish, green sea turtles, and even dolphins in their natural habitat.

The tour includes all necessary equipment and a knowledgeable guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure!

Private Snorkeling Charter with Captain Mike.

For a personalized and exclusive snorkeling experience, book a private charter with Captain Mike. With over 20 years of experience, Captain Mike will take you on an enjoyable boat trip to the best snorkeling spots in Fort Lauderdale, tailored to your preferences and skill level. 

You’ll have the boat all to yourself, along with a knowledgeable guide and all necessary equipment. This is the perfect option for couples, families, or groups of friends looking for a unique and intimate snorkeling adventure. An unforgettable experience on the water.

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Snorkeling Tour.

Join the Lauderdale-By-The-Sea tour for a snorkeling trip exploring the vibrant coral reef life and diverse marine life of this beautiful area.

This tour is perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers, with a knowledgeable guide to provide information and assistance. 

You’ll have the opportunity to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional stingray. Book now for a fun and educational snorkeling adventure.

Pompano Beach Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Tour.

If you’re looking for a snorkeling and scuba diving tour in Fort Lauderdale, the Pompano Beach tour is a must-try. This tour takes you to some of the best dive sites in the area, including the famous Shipwreck Park. 

You’ll have the chance to see a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and even sharks. The tour is led by experienced guides who will ensure your safety and provide information about the local ecosystem.

If you prefer to snorkel with only your group, I’d recommend a private snorkel tour. Many are combinations with snorkeling, stand up paddleboards, kayaking and more. This is a great option: Private Snorkel Tour

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