KEY WEST, FLORIDA - YEAR -ROUND
Key West Lobstering & Island Exploration
Seasonal lobstering trips and island exploration around the Florida Keys — one of the most unique and sought-after experiences Key West has to offer. Dive for spiny lobster in the wild, hop between secluded islands, and discover corners of the Florida Keys that most visitors never see, all on a 100% private charter with Captain Rio.
Lobster season in the Florida Keys runs August 6 – March 31. Mini-season (the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July) is an especially popular time to book — spots fill fast. Call Captain Rio early to reserve your date.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5-Star Rated
Private Charters
Licensed & Insured
Available 7 days a week
THE EXPERIENCE
Lobstering and island hopping around the Florida Keys
Florida spiny lobster — prized for their sweet, tender tails — live on the reefs, grass flats, and rocky ledges of the Florida Keys year-round. During lobster season, catching your own dinner straight from the water is one of the most memorable things you can do in Key West. Captain Rio knows exactly where to find them.
Lobstering in Key West is done by freediving or snorkeling — no scuba required. You spot the lobster hiding under a ledge or in the grass, dive down, and use a tickle stick and net to coax them out. It sounds simple, but there's real skill involved, and Rio will teach your group everything they need to know to be successful.
Beyond lobstering, the Florida Keys backcountry is full of secluded islands, uninhabited flats, and hidden anchorages that are only accessible by boat. Captain Rio has explored all of them. An island exploration trip might include wading on a remote sandbar, watching wildlife in the mangroves, snorkeling a forgotten reef, or simply anchoring somewhere beautiful and taking it all in.
Every trip is 100% private and fully tailored to your group. Whether you're laser-focused on filling your lobster bag or want a more relaxed island-hopping adventure, Rio will build the day around what you want to do.
WHATS INCLUDED
Everything you need is on board
TRANSPARENT PRICING
Key West Charter Rates
All charters are 100% private — you're not sharing the boat with strangers.
Flat rate per trip, not per person.
Does not include fuel.
Flat rate, not per person. Whether it's 2 guests or 6, you pay one price.
Split it with your group and it's exceptional value for a private Key West experience.
QUARTER DAY
2 hours - up to 6 guests
$500 flat rate
✓ Perfect intro to the water
✓ Sunset cruise option
✓ All gear provided
✓ Fun engaged
SUNSET CRUISE
2 hours - up to 6 guests
$500 flat rate
✓ Perfect for relaxing
✓ Amazing views
✓ Good company
✓ Best spots
HALF DAY
4 hours - up to 6 guests
$900 flat rate
✓ Fishing or spearfishing
✓ Snorkeling & reef exploration
✓ All gear included
✓ Sandbar stop available
FULL DAY
8 hours - up to 6 guests
$1,700 flat rate
✓ Deep-sea fishing available
✓ Multiple stops & activities
✓ All gear included
✓ Best value per hour
Questions about which trip is right for you? Call or text 305-394-1278 — Captain Rio will help you choose.
Fuel surcharge may apply for offshore trips. Gratuity not included.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Key West lobstering FAQ
When is lobster season in Key West?
Florida spiny lobster season runs August 6 through March 31. There is also a special two-day mini-season on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July, which is extremely popular. Book early for mini-season dates as they fill up months in advance.
Do I need experience to go lobstering in Key West?
No experience needed. Captain Rio will show your group exactly how to spot, approach, and catch Florida spiny lobster. Basic swimming ability is helpful since lobstering is done by snorkeling or freediving, but flotation vests are available for all guests.
How many lobsters can we keep?
Florida regulations allow 6 lobsters per person per day during regular season, with a minimum carapace size of 3 inches. During mini-season the limit is 6 per person per day as well. Captain Rio will make sure your group stays fully within all legal limits and regulations.
Do I need a fishing license to catch lobster in Key West?
When you're aboard a licensed charter vessel, the captain's license covers all passengers for recreational lobstering. You do not need to purchase a separate license for your trip with Captain Rio.
What is island exploration in the Florida Keys?
The Florida Keys backcountry is home to dozens of uninhabited islands, remote sandbars, and hidden anchorages only reachable by boat. Captain Rio will take your group to spots most visitors never find — wade on a private sandbar, watch birds in the mangroves, snorkel a forgotten reef, or simply enjoy the solitude of the backcountry.
Can we combine lobstering with other activities?
Absolutely. Many groups combine lobstering with snorkeling, a sandbar stop, or some light fishing on the same trip. Just let Captain Rio know your group's interests when booking and he'll build the perfect day around them.
YOUR GUIDE
A lifelong Keys local who knows where the lobster are
Rio has been diving the reefs and exploring the backcountry of the Florida Keys his entire life. He knows every productive lobster spot, every hidden island, and every secret anchorage worth visiting. A USCG licensed captain with unmatched local knowledge.
