Pay by the seat on a shared boat, or book a whole boat for your group. Here's how the options compare — with the real price basis for each, not a teaser number.
The honest difference: a per-person seat is priced per adult; a whole-boat charter is one flat rate for the boat, split across your group.
| Trip type | Price basis | Typical group | Duration | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared sandbar trip | Per person (adult) from $125/person |
1–3 guests | Half day | Solo travelers, couples, and small groups who'd rather pay by the seat |
| Private half-day charter | Whole boat, up to 6 from $450 flat |
3–6 guests | 2.5–4 hours | Groups who want the boat to themselves for a few hours |
| Full-day & premium charter | Whole boat, up to 6 from $800 flat |
3–6 guests | 6 hours or custom | Groups wanting a full day on the water or a build-your-own route |
One flat rate for the boat, up to 6 guests. Split it across your group — the price is the same whether 2 or 6 of you go.
A private 2.5-hour charter for up to 6 — the shortest whole-boat option here. Whole-boat rate, so bring your group and split it.
Check AvailabilityA private tiki boat for up to 6 out to a Key West sandbar. Whole-boat rate for a half-day on the water.
Check AvailabilityA private 4-hour charter for up to 6 — more time at the sandbar than the 2.5-hour trip. Whole-boat flat rate.
Check AvailabilityPer-person (shared) trips charge each guest a seat rate — from $125 per adult — and you share the boat. Whole-boat (private) charters are one flat rate for the boat, from $450 for up to 6. Small groups often pay less per-person; groups of four or more frequently come out ahead on a whole boat.
A shared, per-person seat — currently from $125 per adult. With a group of four or more, splitting a whole-boat charter (from $450 for up to 6) can reach a similar or lower per-head cost.
Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred), towels, food and drinks (BYOB is welcome on most charters), and a waterproof phone case. Most boats provide snorkel gear, coolers, and ice.
Often — dolphins are common in the backcountry, and a couple of these trips pair a sandbar stop with dolphin watching. Captains know where they gather but can't guarantee wild-animal sightings.
Your local guide to Key West sandbar trips
Start with the cheapest seat, or grab the whole boat for your group — same-day booking and free cancellation on most trips.
Compare sandbar trips
Key West Sandbar Tours