Sugarloaf Key Reef & Island Excursions 
Sightsee, Snorkel & Island Tours

Yellowtail Snapper at The Reef

Private Snorkel Trips

Backcountry Scenery

Private Backcountry Tours

Relax in The Backcountry

Private Backcountry Tours

Snorkeling Amongst Reef Life

Private Snorkel Trips

Eco-Fishing Baracuda

Private Eco-Fishing Trips

Watching The Sun Set

Private Sightseeing Tours

Private Backcountry Sightseeing Tour

Private Sightseeing Tours

Backcountry Dolphin Watch

Private Sightseeing Tours

Reef Scenery

Private Snorkel Trips

Backcountry Snorkeling

Private Snorkel Trips

Eco-fishing Bonefish

Private Eco-Fishing Trips

Relaxing in The Sandy Waters

Private Backcountry Tours

Sandbar Scenery

Private Backcountry Tours

Watching Stingrays on The Flats

Private Sightseeing Tours

Exploring The Sugarloaf Key Backcountry

Private Backcountry Trips

Backcountry Wildlife

Private Sightseeing Tours

Eco-Fishing Pompano

Private Eco-Fishing Trips

Who We Are

Private & Immersive Island Charters
Sightsee,Snorkel & Island Tours

There are plenty of tours and charters on Sugarloaf Key and in The Lower Florida Keys. Why choose Capt. Clint?

• Owner operated - integrity
• Native guide - experience
• Local islander - laid back
• Sugarloaf Key - location!
• References - years of 5-star reviews!

Support small island business and go native guided, owned and operated! Laid back excursions to the best locations on Cudjoe Key, Sugarloaf Key & The Lower Florida Keys.

Our Florida Keys Locations

CUDJOE GARDENS MARINA
Tours & charters leave from (Cudjoe Gardens Marina) 477 Drost Dr. Cudjoe Key, FL 33042. The marina has safe, free parking and a small store for beer, ice, water, clothing, etc..

SUGARLOAF KEY HOTEL
This is the old Sugarloaf Key KOA campground we previously used to run out of that was destroyed by hurricane Irma, now known as The Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort AND The Sugarloaf Key Hotel. We've since moved to Cudjoe Gardens Marina. So be sure to mention if you are staying here as guests can be picked up at their marina docks. Please don't confuse us with the new history/beach boat tour leaving from there, we have zero association with that captain or that tour.

Our Prices
  • $120 per hour
  • 3 Hour minimums
  • $$ per trip not per person
Our Hours
  • 9am - 9pm for calls & text
  • Trip times 100% flexible
  • Open all year every day
Our Contact Info

What We Do

Snorkeling at Looe Key

Snorkeling Tour
Reef, Inshore & Backcountry

Snorkel the coral reef areas around The Sugarloaf Keys & The Lower Florida Keys. Including The National Marine Sanctuary, Looe Key & other tropical, marine fish hang outs.

• 3-6 Hours / $120 per Hour
• 3 Hours Recommended
• Up to 6 People

More Snorkel Tour Info

Relaxing in The Backcountry

Backcountry Tour
Sandbars, Sun & Sightseeing

Navigate the sands, shallows and mangrove islands looking for shells, shark, turtles, dolphin and sting rays. See birdlife, sealife, relax on a sandbar or just get your feet wet.

• 3-6 Hours / $120 per Hour
• 3 Hours Recommended
• Up to 6 People

More Backcountry Tour Info

Sandbar & Friends on A Sunny Day

Tour / Snorkel Combo
More Time, More Fun

More time equals more options, more locations and more ways to experience The Keys. Our most popular trip and a great trip to maximize a day on and in the water.

• 3.5-6 Hours / $120 per Hour
• 4.5-5 Hours Recommended
• Up to 6 People

More Combo Trip Info

Fishing in The Keys

Eco-Fishing Trip
Laid-back Catch & Release

Casual fishing for the eco-tour kind of crowd. Mostly sharks, occasional bonefish and that kind of thing. Less focus on serious fishing and more about getting out on the water.

• 4-6 Hours / $120 per Hour
• 4 Hours Recommended
• Up to 2 People

More Fishing Trip Info

Birding in The Keys

Birding Tour
Bird Sighting & Photo Excursion

Spend time traversing the backcountry while viewing and photographing the local and migrating birds. Mangrove, shore and water dwellers make a nice array of options.

• 3-6 Hours / $120 per Hour
• 3 Hours Recommended
• Up to 6 People

More Birding Tour Info

Captain for Hire

Captain / Boat for Hire
Just Looking for a Capt. & Boat?

Some common requests: bachelorette parties, spreading of ashes, mini sandbar weddings, support boat for swim or paddle races, photo or video production boat.

• 3-6 Hours / $120 per Hour
• Call to discuss options
• Up to 6 People

More Captain for Hire Info

What We See

Snorkeling with A School Of Yellowtail Snapper

On Snorkel Tours

The variety of sealife is colorful, raw and beautiful. It comes in many shapes and sizes, each has its own favorite environment that it will frequent. We visit those areas.

  • Parrot Fish
  • Wrasses
  • Barracuda
  • Blue Tangs
  • Angelfish
  • Hogfish
  • Snappers
  • Groupers
  • Spiny Lobster
  • Sharks
  • Many More
Frigate Birds Flying from Mangroves

On Backcountry Tours

From sunsets to mangrove channels and sandy shoals, a sightseeing tour may be just what you are looking for. Here are some typical sights that we may encounter on the tour.

  • Migrating Birds
  • Dolphin
  • Sea Turtles
  • Stingrays
  • Sharks
  • Mangrove Islands
  • Sandbars & Beaches
  • Old Railroad Bridges
  • Old Shrimp Farm
  • Gulf & Atlantic Sunsets
  • Many More
Fishing The Flats

On Eco-fishing Trips

As an eco tour company, our focus is about being on the water, enjoying whatever the day hands us. We never know what we'll get into but here are some common potentials.

  • Sharks
  • Barracuda
  • Jacks
  • Ladyfish
  • Bonefish
  • Snapper
  • Mackeral
  • Grouper
  • Permit
  • Tarpon
  • Many More
Yellow Crowned Night Heron

On Birding Tours

The Keys is a migration point as well as a destination for many traveling birds. The local population is always strong with many options on any given day of the year.

  • Cormorants
  • Frigate Birds
  • Herons
  • Osprey
  • Pelicans
  • Terns
  • Sandpipers
  • Egrets
  • Kingfishers
  • Turkey Vultures
  • Many More
Bottlenosed Dolphin Under Feet

Other Common Sights

The mild climate is prime real estate for so many creatures who inhabit The Keys at one time or another throughout the year. Here are some other common creatures encountered.

  • Starfish
  • Live Corals
  • Conchs & Whelks
  • Crabs
  • Jellyfish
  • Sponges
  • Eagle Rays
  • Iguanas
  • Dockside Manatees
  • Goliath Grouper
  • Many More
Red Mangrove Roots

Common Plant Life

We usually cover a lot of water and along the way you'll notice some common greenery. On the islands and shorelines these are the common, saltwater friendly fauna we see.

  • Red Mangrove
  • White Mangrove
  • Black Mangrove
  • Australian Pine
  • Buttonwood
  • Sargasso Seaweed
  • Turtle Grass
  • Manatee Grass
  • Seagrape
  • Coconut Palm
  • Many More

Where We Go

Hanging out in The Backcountry

The Backcountry

A.K.A The Great White Heron Wildlife Refuge, the backcountry is a 130,000 acre refuge of shallow water, sandbars, mangrove islands and a haven for migratory wildlife all year. The depth ranges from exposed low tide areas out to the edge of the Gulf in about 10' of water.

By boat we look for dolphin playing and feeding, sea turtles catching breaths of air, stingrays sleeping on the bottom and sharks wandering for a meal.

 

Snorkeling The Coral Reef

The Coral Reef

The Florida Keys barrier reef is the third largest in the world and runs the length of the island chain. First largest is Australia and second is Belize. The depth ranges from exposed areas out to 30' where the open ocean floor begins.

Considered the absolute best area to snorkel with a large variety of color, species, unique environment and clear waters due to it's proximity to the open ocean. We utilize smaller inshore reefs as well.

 

Storm Over The Gulf Waters

Bodies of Water

Gulf of Mexico - Technically anything on the north side of the island chain is The Gulf. Why is the Gulf important to us? Simply put, it hosts it's own unique fishing, snorkeling and wildlife environment.

The Atlantic Ocean - Technically anything on the South side of the island chain is The Atlantic. Why is the Atlantic important to us? It's deep ocean currents and flowing food chain flood life into The Keys.

 

Meet Captain Kristen

Mangrove Paddleboard Puppy Wading at The Sandbar Releasing Bonefish Morning Boat Sandbar Kristen Permit Kristen Grouper

Guiding & Professional Background

The newest member of the crew! Captain Kristen Huffman is the next generation of Lower Florida Keys captains. In her time in the Florida Keys she has proven herself as an accomplished fisherman, captain and mate spanning all the way from Key Largo to The Dry Tortugas. Kristen will provide you a well rounded, guided experience to the best locations in the Lower Florida Keys. She offers the same pleasant professionalism, knowledge and integrity that sets our charters apart from the rest. Whether it’s snorkeling the reef, sightseeing in the backcountry or just relaxing on a sandbar, Capt. Kristen has got you covered!

Meet Captain Clint

Hogfish to Fillet Slammer Bull Dolphin Speared Grouper Kingfish on The Flats Large Permit Bull Redfish
Clint & Anglers Permit Tuna on Fly Sailfish Before Release Bonefish on Fly African Pompano Tarpon On Fly

Guiding & Professional Background

Clint has worked professionally as a captain, mate and guide in many areas of The Key's ocean based industries. Having a lifetime of local knowledge on and in the waters of Sugarloaf Key, Key West and The Lower Florida Keys he gives his guests an educated, unique experience that other charters and the growing numbers of new tour operators just can't provide. Go with experience go with the best!

Personal Background

Big Coppit Key Grouper 1977

Capt. Clint, Big Coppit Key1977

Clint was raised in the islands of The Lower Keys. Growing up, his childhood was immersed in the local island lifestyle and the multi-layered cultures of a small, transient and ocean based town.

At age 2 , his family moved to Stock Island, before settling into a home on Sugarloaf Key. This would be where he'd spend his childhood and teenage years. Most days were spent exploring his aquatic backyard or helping with the family built business 'The Sugarloaf Leisure Club'. Through his twenties, nights were spent playing local bars as a guitarist and days were spent on the water for fun and work. Though still playing music with friends and from time to time benefit gigs at The Key West Theatre, his love for the ocean has taken lead and he's since pursued a life on the water without looking back.

Also an active photographer and artisan, you can find Clint's work throughout The Lower Florida Keys. Pieces include island photography in handmade driftwood or ocean wood frames, mirrors in the same tropical style frames, Caribbean signs, wind-chimes, candles and an always evolving collection of artisan goods.

"I have a great wife, a home, a business that allows me to meet people from all over the world and this little island community, what more could I ask for. Sugarloaf and these little islands is where my heart is, I'll be here til the day I die" he says.

Do yourself a favor and book a trip with Capt. Clint, let him show you the best these Lower Keys waters have to offer.

In The News

Florida Squid Find Defies Categorization, Puzzles Scientist
Giant Squid Off Key West

Capt. Clint, Key West 2007

SARASOTA, Florida -- Scientists at Florida's Mote Marine Laboratory are trying to figure out the identity of a large squid found off the Florida Keys by a charter captain last week.

Capt. Clint Moore was fishing in 850 feet of water near the Gulf Stream southwest of Key West Tuesday when he saw a large mass floating at the surface. Moore realized the creature was a squid and took it aboard. At the dock, he estimated the squid to be 13 feet long but realized it was not fully intact.

The animal was taken to Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota where Debi Ingrao performed a necropsy on Thursday.

"The tail section was gone; it had no tentacles, so I can't speculate what the overall length was," Ingrao said. "What we have is 6.5 feet long. It weighed 13.2 pounds, but it may have been more than that." Ingrao also realized the squid was something strange to Florida waters.

"It's much different, very, very different," Ingrao said. "I don't know the genus. That could be my lack of knowledge. Someone who's seen 50 million squid might know what it is." So it might be a new species or even a new genus.

The thing is, I don't think people realize how many things we don't know about the ocean," Ingrao said. "We're discovering hundreds of species a day." A researcher from the Smithsonian Institution is expected at Mote on Tuesday for an attempt to identify the squid.

by Underwatertimes.com News Service - February 27, 2007 15:25 EST

F.A.Q

General Questions

  • Q: What is included?
  • A: Depending on type of trip: All snorkel equipment, wildlife identification cards, cooler of ice if requested, ample storage space, friendly instruction, professional captain/guide, all required safety equipment, all fishing equipment. You are welcome to bring any of your own stuff.
  • Q: How long should we go for?
  • A: Weather and water conditions have a lot of influence on recommendations, every day is different. General recommendations: Snorkeling Tour (3 hours), Backcountry Tour (3 Hours), Tour/Snorkel Combo (4-5 Hours), Eco-Fishing Trip (4 Hours), Birding Tour (3-4 Hours).
  • Q: What will we see?
  • A: Refer to WHAT WE SEE and WHERE WE GO for details on the most common encounters and sights.
  • Q: Is there shade onboard?
  • A: Yes. There is a bimini top for shade.
  • Q: How many people can go on a trip?
  • A: All trips a maximum of 6 passengers. Except Eco-fishing trips which is a maximum of 2.
  • Q: What do you recommend bringing?
  • A: Sunscreen + sun protection of your choice, water, towel, camera, a light jacket on cool days and hats are a good idea too. Lunch is always nice out on the water or a sandbar. If rain is possible a light rain jacket is a good idea.
  • Q: What is the best time of year to go?
  • A: The most comfortable months, especially for snorkeling, are the calm warm water months of summer and early fall. Anytime of year can be nice though. Wintertime cold fronts may shut down a snorkeling trip but our sightseeing and backcountry tours can go under most any conditions under 20mph winds.
  • Q: What about the Eco-fishing trips? What do we catch?
  • A: Some advice, if you are serious about your fishing and worried about what you are going to catch, how many you are going to catch and if you can keep what you catch, this is probably not the fishing trip for you. The fishing is casual.
  • Q: Do I need to know how to swim to snorkel?
  • A: Non-swimmers are warmly welcome aboard but I can't allow you to snorkel in deep water. One alternative though is wading in the shallow water to experiment with a mask and snorkel.
  • Q: Is alcohol or smoking allowed?
  • A: Yes and Yes. Smokers need to smoke downwind or at the back of the boat though.
  • Q: What about payment?
  • A: We use the honor system so no deposit is required. If you do need to cancel please don't wait until the last day. Payment is due at the end of your trip. Cash is preferred but credit cards are accepted. Tipping is not expected but always appreciated.

Photo Gallery

These are random Keys photos from the Instagram feed thoughout the years. These are not meant to represent the tours and charters, although the majority of photos were taken on paid tours.

Yellowtail Snapper at The Reef
Red Mangrove
Relax in The Backcountry
Backcountry Shelling
Keys Sandbar Sightseeing
Backcountry Shells
Reef Scenery
Backcountry Snorkeling
Dockside Manatee
Horse Conch
Paddling The Backcountry
Keys Scenery
Reef Snorkeling
Backcountry Exploring
Sightseeing Backcountry Sharks

Video Gallery

Mangrove Studio - Videos I've created thoughout the years for fun. These are not meant to represent the tour and charters offered but rather what it is like to live in this extraordinary place, not to be taken too seriously.

Family / Island Time

Enjoying some family-time in the waters of The Lower Florida Keys.

A Sugarloaf Key Dream

Some days when water turns to glass options become endless.

Homemade Fishing Lure

A homemade barracuda lure made then tested on the flats by Capt. Clint.

Spinners in The Blue Water

We friended a pod of 100+ spinner dolphin in about 2,000' of water off of Sugarloaf Key.

Deep Deep Flats

In the flats boat we managed to catch this giant AJ then release him back to the depths.

Backcountry Hitchhiker

A royal tern was so exhausted he didn't mind keeping me company for awhile.

Cobia & A Waterspout

After releasing a cobia we managed to get fairly close to a big waterspout.

April Coldfront Rolling In

Watching a cold front roll in over The Keys. A bone chilling 72 degrees.

Permit In The Backyard

A few days of permit fishing in The Lower Florida Keys.

Tarpon & A Redfish

My first redfish on fly, or ever really and then We hook up on a tarpon.

SUP Permit Fishing I

Playing with the permit in the backcountry. Hooked 3 but only landed one.

SUP Permit Fishing II

Another awesome sunset permit trip. This summer has been a good one.

Where to Stay

Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort - Campground / RV Park / Marina / Tiki Bar / Hotel

KOA Campground Sugarloaf Key

Set between the crystal clear Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort is a true beachfront paradise. You'll find amenities and activities designed to please everyone in the family, from sunset cruises to local fishing and beach side fun at the campground's own water haven. Dine under swaying palm trees and sip margaritas on the waterfront veranda of the campground's pub.

In addition to ocean side RV sites, Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort features the largest tent camping area in the Florida Keys. Or leave the hard work to us and enjoy the comforts of home in a park model unit complete with inviting deck to enjoy evenings under the palms. If you're looking for a truly one-of-a-kind experience...... [ learn more ]

 

Sugarloaf Key Hotel

Sugarloaf Key Hotel

Welcome to The Sugarloaf Key Hotel, an idyllic tropical escape. Discover the perfect blend of comfort, relaxation and outdoor excitement at Sugarloaf Key Hotel, nestled within KOA Resort. From boat rentals at the marina to the convenience of an on-site pub and cafe, a sandy beach, and exciting water activities, we ensure a memorable beach getaway.

Stay in one of our well-appointed suites and enjoy our campground setting welcoming RV travelers. Bring along friends and family for a memorable getaway and foster new memories amdist our inviting hotel setting. [ learn more ]

 

Where to Eat

Mangrove Mama's / Restaurant & Bar / Live Music

KOA Campground Sugarloaf Key

Mangrove Mama’s has been a landmark Restaurant and Bar located on Sugarloaf Key for over 30 years. Mama’s has a reputation for serving fresh local seafood, succulent steaks, specialty drinks and delectable desserts. Whether you are stopping in for Breakfast, Sunday brunch, lunch or dinner, you will leave raving for days about our delicious fare. They are always sprucing up their menu with new and exciting items, but the staples that keep the locals coming back are their Shrimp St. Jacques, Cracked Conch, Mama’s Conch Chowder, and an award winning Key Lime Pie....... [ learn more ]

Who We Associate With

Blue Star Operator
Mote Marine
Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail
Florida Fish & Wildlife

Brands We Endorse

Columbia Sportswear
Buff Headgear
Hook & Tackle
Patagonia

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