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Biscayne National Park Institute
9700 SW 328th St, Homestead, FL 33033, United States
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Biscayne National Park Institute
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El
Review №1

We had a great day out on the water at Biscayne National Park Institute with Anthony. Enjoyed a morning of paddle boarding through the mangroves and observing the diverse wildlife. After stopping for lunch we visited 3 locations where we snorkeled. We saw a wide variety of fish and corals. Anthony was very knowledgeable about the history of the area and wildlife. Thanks for a great day, would highly recommend this trip for anyone looking to get out on the water and enjoy Biscayne bay.

St
Review №2

We took the 6hr tour and it was absolutely phenomenal. The waters were very calm, Captains Harold and Byron were incredibly knowledgeable and kind, and we saw some amazing underwater wildlife. We went to the Mandalay shipwreck first where we were lucky enough to see jellyfish, plenty of fish, and a NURSE SHARK which was so cool. Our second spot was a reef which had really pretty coral, and afterwards we went paddle boarding along the mangroves. Captain Harold was a total boss and didn’t fall off or lose his balance once. This was such an incredible tour and I would happily do it again any time.

Sa
Review №3

My husband and I had a great experience with Biscayne National Park Institute. We did the 3 hour snorkeling trip and it was awesome! Our captain, Brian, did a great job- he was knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. We got to snorkel in three different locations and all were beyond beautiful. Additionally, we ended up needing to switch the day we did our trip and the staff was helpful over the phone and got us switched no problem. I would highly recommend booking a trip with Biscayne National Park Institute!!!

Ro
Review №4

We went snorkeling in the park with the institute. It was a fantastic experience. The staff was very helpful, punctual and knowledgeable. The reef was filled with the most incredible, colorful fish. Our captain (Captain Castle) was experienced, calm and answered all questions with authority. I highly recommend it to others.

Mi
Review №5

Our family of 6 had an incredible time on the paddle & snorkel tour with Captain Danny. He was extremely knowledgeable and professional. It was like having an all-day adventure tour with a NPS ranger. The paddle through the mangrove tunnels was amazing, and we saw lots of fish snorkeling. Well worth it. Great experience!!

Me
Review №6

Snorkeled the mangrove fish nursery’s. Quite amazing and a first for me. Saw barracuda and upside down jellyfish. Guides were knowledgeable and made it fun. Water was a little cold, so glad I took my wetsuit. I would happily do this again!!

Ri
Review №7

This was an awesome boat tour with snorkeling. Captain Brian was fabulous, you can tell he really enjoys Biscayne National Park. He took us to a great reef and took exceptional care of us. We felt like it was a private tour. Must do!

Da
Review №8

We had such a great time! Our captain Castle was awesome! He is very knowledgable and made the whole experience so fun! If youre looking for a great boat tour where you will have fun, laugh, and learn this is the place to go! We will definitely return for another tour in the future!

Mi
Review №9

Great experience for first time snorkeling with a professional. Did your basic here and there on different beach vacations but this was the first time going out on a guided trip! Both the captain of the ship as well as the snorkeling instructor knew what they were doing and made sure he entire trip just fun a relaxing! There was no pressure to participate if one did not want to but they were also willing to encourage or instruct when or if needed. Took us to 2 different spots that were both amazing and lucked out and got to see some manatees right as we were pulling out from the dock! Over all an amazing experience and would definitely r commend to anyone who would be in the area and up for snorkeling

Ma
Review №10

We had a great day snorkeling in the mangroves and out on the reef! Jason and Brian made it a great trip. They were very knowledgeable about the marine life and historical parts of the park!

Ch
Review №11

Our family, which includes 3 kids ages8-14, took the private guided tour-paddle the mangroves and sea grass tour. Our guide Ronnie was wonderful. He was great to talk with and knew a lot about the area and wildlife we were seeing. This trip was wonderful and I highly recommend it.

Da
Review №12

Good trip despite less than ideal conditions. Captain Dave and Naturalist Pedro were great and provided lots of interesting information. Will be back!

Bh
Review №13

Good way to see Biscayne by taking half day tour provided by the Biscayne national park. Jason (tour guide) was friendly and knowledgeable about the park and eco system. John ( driver ) was also very nice to talk to.

Ca
Review №14

We really enjoyed our paddle boarding trip! Captain Danny was amazing! So knowledgeable and fun. We got really lucky and saw lots of wildlife including lemon sharks, turtles, stingrays, lobster, jellyfish, and lots of various fish! It was so much fun and well worth the money.

Co
Review №15

This national park is a must-see! Book a boat tour online (snorkeling, paddle boarding and more) and they take you out to beautiful mangroves! Normally the reef is also available. It was not accessible today due to high wind, but even so we feel that we got good value for our money.

m
Review №16

Had fun paddling. It was exhausting because of the waves but so relaxing at the same time. Also, our guide, DW, (hope I got that right) was very informative. Definitely a must visit!

Tr
Review №17

Excellent tour of Biscayne National Park! We enjoyed the knowledgable staff that explained the history of the area and the park. We loved the stand up paddle board tour of the mangrove islands and snorkeling the reef! We saw a lot of marine wildlife!!! I would definitely do this trip again!

Ay
Review №18

Amazing trip! We took the Eco-adventure with the paddle boating and snorkeling. Every single second of the trip was enjoyable! Our captain, Anthony was really knowledgeable and shared a lot of great facts with us. Bring fruits/snacks/lunch because you do stop in the middle of the trip to eat and don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray.

Ge
Review №19

Great site, Great staff,(Michelle, Jeremy, Rodney). Couldnt have asked for more! They were professional and fun!

CU
Review №20

This place was amazing start to finish the captain and crew were beyond outstanding.They told us about the place and told a few stories on the way. They were funny and laid back they didn’t have many rules to follow.We took a short boat ride out to the first snorkeling spot which was amazing. They told us where to go and not to go while snorkeling. They helped everyone get back on the boat while grabbing the gear at the same time.Then we were off to the second spot where we encountered all kinds of sea life.Moray eel, barracudas, jellyfish and tons of others.The crew even jumped in and snorkeled with us even coming up to us and talking about the animals and some tips.Overall worth the money and the highlight of our trip! Will come back again when we come back to Miami in the near future.

ro
Review №21

Castle was an excellent tour guide. Both snorkeling locations were beautiful. Would definitely go again. Paddle boarded for first time and was very fun. Guide also told us a great deal of history which was fascinating.

Ta
Review №22

We chose the full day paddle boat and snorkeling tour and we’re not disappointed! Our guides Anthony and Andrew were knowledgeable, friendly and fun! I highly recommend doing the full day tour if your are able. We paddled for 2ish hours through the mangroves and snorkeled 2 different locations.A couple of tips though that the website don’t completely lay out for you:- bring a couple of towels in a water resistant bag. You’ll be in and out of water and you’ll dry off quickly but I would have loved to have a towel or two that weren’t wet already.- bring a poncho or rain jacket just in case- bring multiple snacks + lunch if you’re a frequent eater- paddle boarding is quite the activity. They have a cooler on board for your food and have a water cooler to refill your water bottle.- they do say to bring bug spray and sunscreen but just a reminder to do that for sure- bring a change of clothes for the ride homeWe loved the intimate experience we received with the park and will recommend to everyone for their Biscayne visit!

Ro
Review №23

What a great place to bring the family... Visitors Center is great, lots of information about the area, the shipwrecks, the coral, the wildlife... Go kayaking, fishing, picnic or just tour the grounds... Sign up for snorkeling to the corals and shipwrecks, or take a tour boat out to the islands... This National Park is free to enter, has wifi and restrooms, lots of parking... Add this to your list of places to visit!

Ma
Review №24

FUN FUN FUN. . Perfect blend of adventure, education, and beauty. Tour guide Castle was wonderful and shared heaps of information about the park, history, and ecosystem, which made you leave with a greater appreciate for Biscayne. Also, was a good time snorkeling in the reef and stand up paddle boarding. Highly recommend for everyone from families to solo traveler.

As
Review №25

We did the snorkeling tour with capitan castle and it was phenomenal! The water was so clear and we saw some amazing animals!

Mi
Review №26

The tour was both entertaining and educational. The tour guide was a wealth of knowledge and ample time was provided for exploring the trail and lighthouse on Boca Chita Key. This experience would be enjoyable for both locals and tourists.

Ki
Review №27

My friends and I did a private boat snorkeling trip and it was easily the best part of our entire trip to Miami. The price you pay is easily worth the trip. You get to spend so much time snorkeling and on the boat, and the guides were very informative and fun. All of us would definitely do this again!

To
Review №28

Our guide Captain Anthony gave us a super fun, spectacular day filled with adventure and interesting information on Biscayne Bay. Highly recommended’

Ca
Review №29

I had a great time on one of the snorkeling boat tours. The tour guides were very informative and there to answer any questions and the park was beautiful. I felt safe the entire time and loved the enthusiasm from the guides as they spoke about the park! I would recommend visiting.

Su
Review №30

Excellent way to spend a day at Biscayne NP. Captain Castle was fun, knowledgeable and professional. We had great fun.

Gi
Review №31

Great place to visit no entrance fee and can be a family outing. They also have boat tours not sure about fees or times.

Ca
Review №32

The trip was absolutely amazing!! My family and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The captain and crew told tales of the pirate days, which captivated my children. I would highly recommend this trip to families with children of all ages. A++++

Ti
Review №33

Our guide Castle was amazing! We got to snorkel at a shipwreck and a reef and we paddle boarded through the mangroves. Great information about the park and its history. Would highly recommend you take the full day snorkel and paddle.

Ma
Review №34

We did the Sail, Paddle, and Snorkle full day trip on Biscayne Bay. Beautiful day out. Only takes 6 people on the boat so it was intimate with a lot of great info from Capt. Jesse. He was great! Enjoyed the trip.Would recommend. Enjoyed are sailing mates from New Hampshire as well!

Ka
Review №35

We had an amazing time on the snorkel, paddle, and sail boat ride! Captain Danny was very knowledgeable and nice. We even got to help steer the boat and put up the sails. Would highly recommend booking a boat tour here.

Sa
Review №36

Ronnie was personable and quite knowledgeable about the area! I would highly recommend him as a guide!

Rh
Review №37

We had an incredible trip on the Biscayne Bay 3 1/2 hour tour. Our guide and captain were both very professional but also very personable and entertaining. The cruise was very enjoyable and we had plenty of time to explore the key where we went ashore.A couple of tips…take snacks and water with you so you can enjoy a picnic on the key.It rains in Florida, particularly in hurricane season, so you might want to take a light jacket.I highly recommend this tour and plan to return for more tours in the future.

Jo
Review №38

The tour was incredible! We did the paddle and snorkeling eco adventure trip. We saw coral, mangroves, and wildlife (a turtle, sharks (harmless baby ones), and tons of fish). Our guide was very knowledgeable. We saw so much of the park and the 6 hour trip had a nice pace to it. 11/10 Highly recommend!

Ja
Review №39

We didn’t have this park planned into our itinerary but decided to check it out anyway. We were lucky to catch a canoe boat tour while we were there so I had many questions and uncertainties. No regrets. The staff was awesome at answering my questions, our guide, Pancho, was very attentive to our safety yet allowed us to freely explore the area. Highlight of the trip were the manatees at the dam. Beware, you do have to get off the Kayak and walk to the dam. Well worth it. The park is very well maintained, the water looks clear and clean. Good kayaking equipment (for a novice). My family and I were very pleased and will return again. BTW, restrooms were clean and air conditioned.

An
Review №40

Pretty awesome this place is free to get in to. You do have to pay for parking but its extremely cheap to do so. Tons of beauty here, feels like youre in the middle of ocean, on an island. The ocean comes right up to the parking lot in some places. So cool. Seems to be plenty of law enforcement, thankfully. Its a big place. The neat ramp is great plenty of room for everyone. Imagine being on the west coast of the United States. This place would be so expensive you wouldnt be able to afford it lol. I know, Im originally from California and Oregon. Theres just not much free entertainment anymore but Ive found Florida had a ton of it. Havent even come close to exploring 10% of this place yet. Im sure it only gets better.

Pe
Review №41

The crew was very professional and considerate. Even with bad weather and rough water it was still fun and educational

Da
Review №42

Awesome national park. So much natural beauty in the reefs and the mangroves. Wish we would’ve spent more time in the reefs but time was flying by. Mangroves were super relaxing and we even saw sharks. Castle was a great guide, lots of interesting information and jokes. Overall, this is a really nice day trip. Only tip I would have is to remember to bring a cash tip for the guide, we forgot and I regret it. They deserve it.

Cr
Review №43

Captain Terri and Jason were very informative, professional, and friendly!! It was a beautiful day and we had a great time celebrating my friends birthday. Bonus is that we saw numerous species of fish to include parrot fish, a Goliath grouper, a barracuda, and a nurse shark. Captain Terri also found an upside down jellyfish we were able to hold! It was an amazing time!!❤️

El
Review №44

We had an amazing time! This tour was so much fun. We went to two different snorkeling spots and it was beautiful. We saw so many fish and plants in the reefs. I also felt really safe which was great since it was my first time doing this. Me and my boyfriend have been traveling all summer to all of the different national parks in the US- we have been to over 30- and this was one of our favorite if not favorite days so far!

Ke
Review №45

Beautiful way to see Biscayne NP! The guide and captain shared the history of the NP with us while pointing out wildlife along the way. They truly enjoy their jobs and sharing their love of Biscayne with all.

Je
Review №46

We really enjoy our first time snorkeling; it was an amazing adventure at an affordable price.There we’re so many different fish to watch at two different locations. The capitán and first mate were friendly, funny and answered all our questions.you could tell that they loved there job and it made the experience even better. We will be back for sure.

Ni
Review №47

Amazing snorkeling trip with a great captain and naturalist! They took us to a mangrove and reef. The naturalist was very knowledgeable about the history of the keys and wildlife. Would highly recommend!

Re
Review №48

I took the sail boat tour and it was amazing! We went paddle boarding and snorkeling by Adam’s Key. It was such a neat experience snorkeling by the mangroves. You see tons of fish and we even saw a juvenile Nurse shark. Captain Danny was a fantastic captain and guide! Very knowledgeable and personable as well. The boat tour proceeds also help support the park :)***If you stop by the park sign to take a photo, just a warning, the mosquitoes there are very hungry***

Mo
Review №49

Brian and Anthony provided a really fun tour/snorkel experience, with good information about the park and animals. Much of the fee goes to the park research and conservation efforts. Thanks again! And tip your captain(s)!

As
Review №50

A friend and I did the snorkeling tour and it was well worth the money we spent! The waters were calm and we saw so much cool wildlife! Our tour guides were also amazing and we really appreciated how informative they were about both the safety procedures as well as the history of the park.

As
Review №51

My family and I went on a snorkeling tour and had a blast! Our daughters (9 & 12) had so much fun seeing different kinds of sea life as well as learning about the history of Biscayne Bay. Captain Brian and Jessidy were very knowledgeable about the area and provided narration throughout the tour. Would highly recommend families do this tour!

si
Review №52

Family of 5 with kids aged 11-15. Too the private sail, paddle, and snorkel trip 10:00-4:00. Absolutely fantastic! Captain Danny welcomed us aboard, provided some basic instructions and we set off. Made way and then sailed to Adams Key. There we took a break for some food before setting off on paddle boards and a kayak. We toured through mangrove forest and shallow nursery beds seeing juvenile sharks and rays. We next parked to hop in and snorkel. Manatee swam right by us! Saw plenty of fish in the mangrove. Finished the day with a lovely sail back to the park visitor center. Captain Danny made the trip - very knowledgeable and great with our kids. Highly recommend!

ma
Review №53

Was able to do a snorkel trip on short notice. Weather was iffy and visibility was not great. Crew was very good.

Ca
Review №54

Our capitan Anthony was the best ! He told us many interesting facts about the wildlife, history and nature of the beautiful Biscayne NP! Our trip was amazing ! We had enough time to enjoy paddling and snorkeling… and at the end, we were able to see dolphins and manatees ! Definitely worth the visit ! ❤️🤩

Gr
Review №55

Had a great time, our Captain was so nice and informative. The first stop we saw a couple fish but the coral reef was the best we saw so many fish and jelly fish. Definitely would recommend

Vi
Review №56

Awesome trip! The crew was very knowledgeable about the area and species that inhabit it. Saw lots of fish in the mangroves. Definitely recommend!

Ma
Review №57

Amazing snorkeling trip. Our guide was very informative. Got to learn a lot about the history of Biscayne National Park and Miami.

Le
Review №58

Claudia and Capt John were wonderful hosts and very informative. Really appreciated their commitment to environment and patience with rude locals who blasted us with loud music and showered the park with litter. Would really recommend better enforcement of park protection by authorities…

Ka
Review №59

Excellent small group snorkeling trip. Staff members were friendly, knowledgeable, and made the trip informative and fun. Would definitely recommend for vacationers and locals alike!

Je
Review №60

We did the snorkel and paddle and the time flew by! The captain was very interesting and helpful pointing out different fish and wildlife. Recommend!

Ma
Review №61

Jeremy and Poncho were awesome! We had a last minute flight cancellation and drove down to hopefully do something more interesting with our day as opposed to sitting in the airport. They were able to accommodate us and helped us have a great day! The snorkeling was incredible, affordable and they were both able to tell us about the history of the park. Definitely worth the stop if you’re coming to Biscayne!

Da
Review №62

For our son’s birthday we booked a tour and fishing trip online and it was great. Our captain and conservationist were excellent. There are so many nature activities in Miami that can be done and we would like to thank the staff at the Biscayne National Park Institute for making us aware. Absolutely going back. Thank you for a great day!

Br
Review №63

Our guide was excellent providing a wealth of information on the bay ecosystem and the history of the lands that now make up the park. The tour was excellent and he answered our questions with a high degree of professionalism. Our captain was also excellent providing a very good ride. I recommend the tour to anyone looking for a tour of the bay and it’s history.

O
Review №64

We had an incredible time. Great service. Jin and Brian were our host and captain on the boat. The reef was great. First reef was better than the second one. Saw tons of beautiful fish. The ride was beautiful. We had great weather too. Brian is hilarious. Jin provided some educational info about the flora and fauna. Will definitely be going back again. And the times I called, to inquire about the weather and the trip, the park folks were also really friendly and responsive. Highly recommend this group for outdoor excursions.

Ma
Review №65

Amazing! Before the tour even started we got lucky to see a mother manatee and her baby right by the docks. We had Brian and Andrew as our tour guides. Very friendly (full of jokes) and helpful. Happen to see dolphins at the end of our tour, and they were nice enough to stop and let us see them up close on the boat before heading back. Once back, we had an issue with our Lyft driver being lost and Brian happened to be leaving and stopped to help us

Li
Review №66

This kayaking experience in Biscayne National Parks Jones Lagoon with Captain Teri could not have been better. It was an absolutely idyllic experience. I believe the tour accommodates six people, but somehow we lucked out and were the only two who showed up. They could have cancelled on us, but they didnt and we had a truly magical time.Captain Teri is friendly and knowledgeable. Im a science nerd, and a big talker, so I asked all kinds of questions about Biscayne, its wildlife, and the mangroves. Teri answered all of my queries with energy and enthusiasm. She provided several up-close encounters with various sea creatures and treated us to the route less traveled through the wild mangroves. Terri made the entire tour beyond wonderful for us. Its obvious that she loves what she does, and that makes for a great experience for those who tour with her.I very strongly recommend this 3+ hour tour. I didnt want it to end, and would have gladly paid a second time if we could have extended the experience.Take this tour, and ask for Captain Teri when you do!

Gl
Review №67

Fantastic! Paddling and snorkeling!We checked it out 2 days before our scheduled adventure, while were in the area. Clean grounds, buildings, and docks, even while making improvements to the buildings. Staff was knowledgeable and friendly. When we arrived at check in for our paddle and snorkeling trip we met our Captain/guide, “Castle”. He gave a great background on the park and the animals, having grown up here. He was very helpful and informative. Beautiful coral and amazing views, can’t wait to come back and explore further.

Ju
Review №68

We had a great time on the Biscayne Heritage Cruise with James. We learned so much about the history of the area. The whole park was beautiful. Thank you!

Co
Review №69

Took the private charter for 3.5 hr snorkeling trip. The check in was easy and the equipment was easy to use and in good condition. Our captain Harold was professional, knowledgeable and even cracked a few jokes. He accommodated our first time snorkelers as well. We saw a diversity of fish and coral, a black tipped shark and a dolphin while we were traveling. I would highly recommend this trip for those that love water and nature, and it supports the management of the reefs.

je
Review №70

What a beautiful morning we had snorkeling at Biscayne National Park. Our guides were knowledgeable and friendly. The water was perfect- teaming with friendly sea creatures. We will be back!

De
Review №71

My husband and I visited Biscayne National Park for a scheduled sailing, kayaking and snorkeling tour. Danny was a great captain and told us a lot about the history of the Bay and southern Florida’s development. It was so much fun to sail across the bay and then paddle and snorkel along the mangrove coast. Totally worth the cost to spend a day on the water and see underwater life! We highly recommend the Park Institute for any of your excursions in the National Park.

Mi
Review №72

We didnt know of we would make an afternoon tour of any sort due to it being a travel day for us so we walked in to see what was available. Luckily there was a Heritage Tour available so we booked it. This tour did not disappoint. The guides did a fantastic job educating us on the history of the National Park. We toured the bay side and parked at Boca Chita Key to explore the lighthouse and beach.

Ka
Review №73

Guys! Our group of 4 did the sail, snorkel, paddle, island visit tour! We had an AMAZING time! Our captains were awesome and super knowledgeable. The boat only had 6 people on it, so it was super easy to ask questions and talk with the guides—it’s like we had our own personal encyclopedias. I love that this excursion allowed me to experience Biscayne in a variety of ways! If you’re in southern Florida, do this tour!

Ka
Review №74

My family and I just had an amazing time on the history of Biscayne tour! We had a 5 year old and a 10 year old and they did great! John and Michael were fantastic guides and very informative! This is our best national park visit to date!

Jo
Review №75

We had an awesome time paddle boarding through mangrove channels and snorkeling in two very different and diverse areas. I highly recommend this as a way to experience Biscayne Bay!

Ca
Review №76

The boat and personnel were great, the trip was a little disappointing in that due to the wind we couldnt go out to the reef or shipwreck which were what we were hoping for . We spent the trip in the shallow edges of the mangroves and coral rock edges of Elliott Key, interesting but not nearly as fun as my past experiences snorkeling. We were offered a refund once we were on the boat. Probably would have taken it if offered before we got on the boat. Still, all in all,it was in the water, educational and fun.

Ei
Review №77

Biscayne is a must see, one of the best national parks in the US! We did the snorkeling and paddle boarding tour with Danny and had an amazing time, saw many cool species and learnt a lot!

Ka
Review №78

Wonderful time on the Sail, Paddle and Snorkel tour with Jeremy. 9 yo gave said it was the greatest of all time :-). Loved snorkeling the mangroves looking for fish. Saw several juvenile sharks during the kayaking. Got to help hoist the sail. It was adventurous and relaxing at the same time. We also learned a ton about the history of the park from Jeremy, who was amazing at telling the stories and one of the best guides we have had on a tour ever.

ba
Review №79

Our capt was Castle who took us out half day kayaking. He was very very informative about the park and history. He stopped the boat so we could watch dolphins. The mangroves were great.Would recommend this experience as I had knee replacement and was worried about getting in and out of the boat and kayak but Castle was very kind and helpful!!!We will definitely come back and also will tell all friends and family. Great day!!Went into the visitors center to look around and watched a video about Parson Jones. Fascinating!!!!

Ar
Review №80

Biscayne is definitely an underrated park! The guides were very informative, laid back, and fun! Very beautiful under water world! It’s a must if you’re in Florida!

Da
Review №81

Biscayne Bay National Park Heritage Tour was a great way to spend the afternoon. The naturalist on our boat tour was very knowledgeable and answered many questions from all who were on board. We enjoyed learning about the origins of the park and the people who were inspired to make the park a reality. The park is beautiful and expansive- lots to see and do and learn about. We also appreciated the skills of the Captain of our boat. We would definitely recommend this relaxing and informative experience if you are interested in the heritage of a great National Park.

Bi
Review №82

I booked a snorkeling trip at Biscayne National Park for myself and my partner. Booking it online was super easy (make sure to read the notes after you book about what to bring, getting there a bit early, what Google link to use to make sure you’re going to the right place, etc. so you’re prepared).Everything about the trip was great. We were on a boat with Dave and DW — both were great friendly hosts. Dave is particularly knowledgeable about the park and marine life, while Dave is a great teacher who will make you feel comfortable if it’s your first time snorkeling (it was mine). Both will answer any question you have and I asked a lot of them. They have water on deck, a dry cooler and a cooler for snacks and drinks, plus pool noodles to help first time snorkelers. They took us out to a great, busy part of the reef and then a similar part of the mangrove trees - I saw so many fish, DW found a starfish to show us all, and someone on the boat spotted a turtle and a lobster.I really enjoyed the tour but honestly am most appreciative of the staff for what happened after. I’m an avid photographer and I left my camera on the boat. I called the next day and they couldn’t find it, and I emailed too. I heard back just yesterday that they found it and would mail it to me. The staff is really so kind and helpful, and I would definitely go back and recommend their snorkeling services to anyone I know.

Ke
Review №83

We had a great time snorkeling and paddle boarding, they were very flexible with what we wanted to do. He gave us suggestions based on the weather, and really just let us enjoy the time instead of feeling like we were on a schedule. Snorkeling the mangroves and reef are both well worth the trip, and getting to paddle board through perfectly still, quiet water in a mangrove forest felt very surreal considering the 3 foot waves we had just left. Very much worth the money and a great way to hit multiple parts of the park all in one day.

Da
Review №84

We loved our trip to Biscayne National Park. Our kids participated in the Junior Ranger program and enjoyed learning about the park and it’s history. The rangers on site were helpful and knowledgeable and extremely personable. We also took the Heritage Tour boat ride and it was incredible. We saw turtles, dolphin, sharks, crabs, barracuda and various other sea animals. Our boat captain (John) and tour guide were very knowledgeable and friendly. We highly recommended this trip!

Ca
Review №85

We went on the 6 hour sailing, snorkeling and kayaking trip. It was phenomenal! Our captain, Jeremy, was helpful, fun and informative. We didn’t want the day to end. Highly recommend!

So
Review №86

I took the 915am snorkel with captains Jeremy and poncho! We got to visit anniversary reef and the shipwreck and it was amazing, I would highly recommend it. Captains were very nice and helpful if you needed any help! Both sites were like swimming in an aquarium and great value for the price, we had such a good calm day!

Sa
Review №87

We did the snorkeling tour and absolutely loved it! Our guides were so fun and knowledgeable. They took us out to a shipwreck and a reef, and both were full of gorgeous, colorful fish and coral. This tour is 1000% worth the price! The money you pay for the tour also goes towards helping maintain the park’s natural beauty, so you can feel like you’re contributing to a great cause too! :)

Ar
Review №88

Everything about the snorkel excursion was fantastic. Dave and Andrew were very friendly, knowledgeable, helpful, and personable. The two sites we went to were very cool and filled with wildlife.

Al
Review №89

Altogether the experience was wonderful. It was so adventurous and unique! The snorkeling destinations were clean and beautiful. The guide Ronny and the captain were very knowledgeable and easy to talk to. Definitely made a memorable first snorkeling experience!

br
Review №90

Had an amazing trip today! Castle was our guide and he was outstanding. Super friendly and knowledgeable about the park and it’s history. Highly recommend!

En
Review №91

We loved the kayak tour. We learned a lot about the history of Biscayne National Park from our guide Andy, a perfect day! Would definitely book again in the future.

Ar
Review №92

The heritage tour was lovely. The scenery, vegetation, wild life, and architectural remnants were all a pleasure to see and admire. The captain and mate were instrumental in the enjoyment by sharing historical, cultural, and personal anecdotes during the tour.recommend this tour to anyone.

Be
Review №93

We had a great time with Captain Bryan and Jessidy on the half-day snorkel adventure. Both were very knowledgeable about the area and provided narration along the tour. We got to snorkel in two areas—a mangrove forest and an ancient reef. In both we saw lots of fish, coral, grasses, and sponges.

Kr
Review №94

Staff were helpful, accommodating and informative. We were dodging thunderstorms on the day we went on snorkeling trip. Crew kept us safe at all times and we were still able to snorkel both the mangroves and the reef. Saw lots of wildlife in the water. Would definitely recommend this to anyone wanting to experience the underwater world of Biscayne National Park

Ka
Review №95

Fantastic snorkeling experience! The captain and crew were full of knowledge about the park wildlife and made the trip really fun. Highly recommend!

Br
Review №96

Had a great day out on my tour. I did the sail, snorkel, paddle, island visit tour. It was a good combo of activities. A relaxing sail out to Elliot island and then some water time there. Captain was awesome and she was very informative on the park and it’s history. She did a great job in managing the entire sailboat solo! Would 10/10 recommend!

Ev
Review №97

We had an excellent experience with this operator. Our tour captain, Danny, was an outstanding guide for our trip and had so much knowledge of Biscayne’s history and ecosystems. The staff are closely associated with the NPS personnel at the park and show the same professionalism and knowledge that is typical when visiting national parks. The park itself is a marvelous protected marine area teeming with life. We snorkeled the mangroves and it was just beautiful. I highly recommend an experience with this group at this very unique park!

Br
Review №98

Our tour went to a reef and to a mangrove forest for about 40 minutes each. Lots to see if youve the patience to look close enough. The swells at the reef were enough to make a couple folks queasy, but most of the group was perfectly fine. The crew was entertaining and informative. No critiques, would recommend to friends. Bring water, it was hot and sunny the whole time!

Sh
Review №99

Our guides on the Tropical Thunder were informative, passionate about conservation, and had a great sense of humor. If you are considering a snorkel trip to Biscayne, I would consider using this nonprofit in order to support the park. You will have a great experience and helping preserve a national treasure.

Ga
Review №100

Crew was sensitive to customers wishes by offering refunds for those expecting to go to the reef instead of the mangroves. Tour was informative and crew was helpful.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.9 Rating
  • Address:9700 SW 328th St, Homestead, FL 33033, United States
  • Site:https://biscaynenationalparkinstitute.org/
  • Phone:+1 786-335-3644
Categories
  • Boat tour agency
  • Canoe & kayak tour agency
  • Dive shop
  • Education center
Working hours
  • Monday:8:30AM–5PM
  • Tuesday:8:30AM–5PM
  • Wednesday:8:30AM–5PM
  • Thursday:8:30AM–5PM
  • Friday:8:30AM–5PM
  • Saturday:8:30AM–5PM
  • Sunday:8:30AM–5PM
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