Sharkeys Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour Key West

Taking a nighttime boat or kayak tour in Key West can transform the way you see this lively island. Sharkey’s Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour offers a rare chance to paddle through calm shallow waters under a canopy of stars while illuminated by powerful underwater LEDs. It’s an experience that combines gentle adventure, local wildlife encounters, and a touch of childlike wonder — perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting an authentic, relaxed vibe after a day in the sun.

What we love about this tour is the stunning visual effect of illuminated waters — watching fish and sea creatures gather around your boat or kayak is surprisingly mesmerizing. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make all the difference, pointing out seabirds, crabs, shrimp, and even dolphins or manatees if you’re lucky. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the relatively short duration of just over an hour — if you’re craving a longer, more immersive experience, other options might suit you better.

This tour is especially well-suited for families with children, couples seeking a romantic yet playful outing, or anyone curious about local marine life in a peaceful setting. If you enjoy calm waters, gentle paddling, and a touch of wildlife wonder, you’ll find this adventure rewarding.

Key Points

• Nighttime magic: Paddle under the stars and see illuminated waters filled with fish and sea creatures.
• Wildlife encounters: Potential sightings include dolphins, manatees, crabs, shrimp, and birds.
• Feeding Fish: A lively highlight where everyone can enjoy throwing food to curious fish.
• Guided expertise: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, especially those interested in marine life and gentle water activities.
• Value for price: At $62 per person, it offers an intimate, memorable adventure with a focus on natural beauty.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting and Meeting Point

Starting at Niles Road Beach, this tour begins in a laid-back, natural setting that sets just the right tone for an evening in Key West. The location is accessible and familiar, making it easy to meet your guide without fuss. The group size is capped at 20, ensuring a personal experience, where guides can give attention to everyone’s curiosity.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

It’s a straightforward but charming itinerary: after a brief safety overview, you’ll set out on your glass bottom kayaks, paddling along mangrove shorelines and canals. These quiet waterways are less crowded, allowing for a peaceful glide through natural surroundings. The guides will point out sea-birds and spot different fish species, shrimp, and crabs illuminated by custom LED lights. This lighting makes the underwater life both visible and vibrant, turning the night into a visual spectacle.

One of the main highlights is the fish feeding segment. As the guides throw food into the water, a lively congregation of fish quickly gathers around the boats and kayaks. It’s a surprisingly interactive moment that leaves visitors of all ages grinning — you can get close enough to touch the fish if you’re inclined, which adds a touch of magic to the experience. Multiple reviews praise this activity as “fun for everyone,” with one guest noting, “The fish follow us so closely, it felt like they knew us.”

Wildlife and Marine Life

Aside from the feeding, you might catch glimpses of dolphins or manatees — these sightings aren’t guaranteed, but they happen often enough to keep hope alive. Guides are well-versed in spotting wildlife and will share their insights, making the experience both entertaining and educational.

Birds are also part of the scenery, perched along mangroves or flying overhead. This combination of sea, sky, and illuminated waters creates an otherworldly atmosphere you‘ll be unlikely to forget. During the tour, we loved the way the guides took their time, emphasizing the natural setting rather than rushing through the experience.

Duration and Pacing

The tour lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a perfect window for those looking for a relaxed, manageable outing without a major time commitment. While some might wish for a longer experience, its length keeps it accessible and prevents fatigue, especially for families with children.

The Price and Value

At $62 per person, this tour offers a solid value given the personalized attention, the chance to see wildlife at night, and the unique LED-lit waters. While not a budget option, it’s a reasonably priced way to enjoy an authentic, peaceful side of Key West after dark. The inclusion of fish feeding and the chance to see marine animals makes it a worthwhile experience, especially considering the intimate group size and expert guides.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance: It’s a popular activity, often booked 19 days ahead.
• Dress comfortably: Wear water-friendly clothing and bring a light jacket if it’s cool.
• Bring a waterproof camera or phone: The underwater lighting makes for great photos, but keep your devices protected from splashes.
• Check the weather: The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations for poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.
• Arrive early to get settled and ready for your paddle.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re after a relaxing, family-friendly adventure that combines nature, wildlife, and a bit of fun, this tour checks all boxes. It’s particularly ideal for those who love gentle water activities, wildlife viewing, and the quiet beauty of Key West’s waterways at night. It’s less about adrenaline and more about soaking in the ambiance — perfect for travelers who want an authentic, memorable experience without the hassle of long excursions or loud crowds.

It also suits photography enthusiasts eager to capture the glow of illuminated waters and elusive marine creatures. And if you’re traveling with kids, the fish feeding activity and the calm paddling make it especially appealing.

Final Thoughts

Sharkey’s Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour offers an engaging way to see the waters around Key West in a whole new light — literally. The experience’s combination of peaceful paddling, guided insights, and stunning visuals makes it a standout choice for those looking to enjoy nature in a gentle, intimate setting. While it’s a relatively short tour, the memories of glowing fish, friendly guides, and starry skies last long after the paddle.

If you’re seeking a calm, engaging, family-friendly adventure that allows you to explore Key West’s unique ecosystems at night, this tour is well worth the $62. Just don’t forget to book early and bring your sense of wonder along for the ride.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering a relaxed pace suitable for all ages.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Niles Road Beach in Key West, a convenient and accessible meeting point.

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes guided paddling in glass bottom kayaks, illuminated waters, fish feeding, and opportunities to spot wildlife.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and offers fun, safe paddling with plenty of wildlife to see.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably in water-friendly clothing; bring a light jacket if needed. Waterproof clothing or a cover for your phone is recommended.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. The tour is weather-dependent, and poor weather cancellations are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the maximum is 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

How good are the guides?
Guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, enhancing the experience with interesting facts and wildlife spotting tips.

Can I take photos?
Absolutely — the underwater LEDs make for great photo opportunities, just keep your camera protected from splashes.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $62 per person, offering good value considering the unique nighttime setting and wildlife encounters.