pennekamp snorkeling tour

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
• Snorkeling Tours
• Scuba Tours
• Glass Bottom Boat
• Kayaks and Paddleboards

Snorkeling Tour Reservations

Snorkeling Tour 2 ½ Hours

Or reserve by phone: 305-451-6300

Reservations

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City & State*

All Reservations need to be made online, click here to Book Now! For the most up-to-date info call (305) 451-6300 .

The coral reef at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park are among the most beautiful and diverse of all living communities.

Personal or Group in-water guide available upon request for $120 plus tax. Each additional snorkeler (guided) is $70 plus tax. Max. group size is 6 snorkelers per guide.

All of tour boats have at least one vessel equipped to accommodate the boarding of wheelchairs for our guests with special needs.

Please call 305-451-6300 ext. 2 for special group rates and payment information for 18 or more passengers.

For reservations please call (305) 451-6300

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• 102601 Overseas Highway (MM 102.5)
• Key Largo, FL 33037
• P.O. Box 1560
• (305) 451-6300
• © Coral Reef Park Company, Inc.

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Why take a crowded bus when you can take a Limo!?

Snorkel the keys offers personalized private snorkel, eco-tours, and sunset cruises on a luxurious 27ft world cat with comfortable seating for everyone, plus bimini tops front and back for plenty of shade. if you want to avoid the stressful lines and crowds and have a fun-filled, relaxing boat tour catered to your needs, then you’ve reached the right place, snorkel trips are to the coral reefs at john pennekamp coral reef state park, where the christ of the abyss is located, and the national marine sanctuaries. these coral reefs are among the most beautiful and diversified of all living communities in the world. eco-tours and sunset cruises are on the waters of the gulf of mexico overlooking the everglades national park with trails that wind through the mangroves and marvin d adams waterway, the only man-made canal through the florida keys., don’t wait.  book your tour today, see our tour boat, what are guests are saying.

• Camping & Lodging

Snorkeling at Pennekamp

While snorkeling at the coral reefs is popular, two habitats are often overlooked. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park has both mangrove and seagrass areas, a vital part of the Florida Keys ecosystem. They are valuable habitats to many species, filter excess nutrients from the water, and stabilize sediments holding creeks and shorelines together in the face of storms.

Seagrass and mangrove areas tend to be shallow and often sheltered, making them ideal snorkel destinations on windy days, or for beginning snorkelers. Make the most of your snorkel: swim slowly and quietly and don’t stir up the bottom (keep those fins at the surface!). Find a place to stop for a moment and float silently. If you look closely  you may see small juvenile fish darting between mangrove roots and skimming along the grass blades; maybe even a pipefish or seahorse. Along sandy areas or the edges of the mangroves, look for orange sea stars, green lettuce sea slugs and white fringe-backed nudibranchs. Clinging to the roots are multicolored sponges, mangrove oysters, tunicates and many species of algae. You might also see various crabs, shrimp and juvenile lobsters. Occasional encounters with larger animals such as manatees, sea turtles, dolphins or tarpon are possible. Remember to keep a respectful distance from any wildlife, both for your safety and for theirs.

Please remember that these areas are protected; take only pictures and leave only bubbles! Always display a dive flag while snorkeling and be especially careful when boating in shallow waters. You’ll love this adventure in the Real Florida !

Snorkeling Tours - John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Review Highlights

“ Apparently, I left it on the boat and one of the crew members held it for me. ” in 3 reviews

“ . You get to scope out the coral reef, jellyfish, barracud a, rainbow fish, and so much more pending on where you're looking or when you go ” in 2 reviews

“ Both were very friendly, and Lucas is a Navy seal, so he would be your rescue person if something were to go awry. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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102601 Overseas Hwy

Key Largo, FL 33037

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We did a 1:30pm snorkeling tour which we booked the previous day on site. This tour was on a Friday afternoon, it took us about 15 minutes waiting in line to get into the park where you pay 9.00 if you have two people in a vehicle. I believe the tour was about $140.00 for 2 1/2 hours - you buy our own snorkel and rented masks and lifejackets. Snorkels range from $10-$20 depending on the type you want. I would recommend getting the green one. We were on a boat called the Sundance with Captain Ed and Lucas. Both were very friendly, and Lucas is a Navy seal, so he would be your rescue person if something were to go awry. You are taken about 5 or 6 miles out and then you are allowed to snorkel for about an hour. The rest of the time is informational and safety protocol. I have been snorkeling once before, and my husband has not. It can be a bit intimidating at first so if you wait until everyone else jumps in (including the seven-year-olds) you may feel a little less anxious. They talk to you about current and how you need to stay close so that you can make your way back and not drift off too far. This coral reef is a big area. They took us to the one that's about 20 to 25 feet deep (not the Christ statue one). I hopped in and saw several different fish including a barracuda. There were people commenting on how they saw a bunch of bull sharks and an eel. I actually got a little bit seasick, so I cut it short and got back onto the boat and enjoyed the rest of my time there. It was a beautiful day and they kept commenting on how it was the most perfect day to snorkel, so I'm glad to have been a part of it. They also commented on how this reef was a better spot than any other reef in the US. Once you finish, they gather everybody up and takeoff back to shore where there are outdoor showers and changing rooms available for use. The water was very salty and I couldn't wait to rinse off. I highly recommend doing that. Next time I will try to be out in the water longer to take full advantage of what nature has to offer. I would recommend these tours as they are professional yet fun, and you feel very safe.

This is part of the John Mellencamp. Captain of the boat is very knowledgeable and friendly. Great experience and safety precaution is observed. Snorkels, fins and life jackets are provided. Price is reasonable.

First rate snorkeling! Professional and competent crew. The check in process is efficient and well organized. Go to the shop first, then to the dock. We had plenty of time at the reef, and saw a host of fish. Many barracuda and lots of smaller fish. Highly recommended!

I highly recommend this snorkeling company. I was here with my children and a friend. The staff members were professional and friendly, and they were good about monitoring all passengers. There is an option to use their snorkeling gear, but we brought our own. They took us out a distance, and we had plenty of time to snorkel the area. We saw A LOT of beautiful fish, a few starfish, and an octopus. The kids really enjoyed the experience and we felt safe throughout. When our tour was over, and we had left the boat, I realized that I had lost my phone. Apparently, I left it on the boat and one of the crew members held it for me. I really appreciated that!

Snorkeling Adventure. A+

Captain Tommy & Liber were true professionals! They found us a great spot to snorkel and we got to see fish we have never seen before on snorkeling tours. I'd say best snorkeling tour yet (Cabo close second because of the food and dance vibes). This one is all about snorkeling. They don't call it the diving capital of the world for nothing!

See all photos from Zaneta B. for Snorkeling Tours - John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

We decided on a whim to take the family snorkeling. Heard about this Snorkeling Tour from friends and wanted to try it out. It wasn't a bad price for the whole family either with gear rental and all. I think we paid $300 for 2 adults and 3 kids. You rent the life jacket, fins and goggles but you get to keep the snorkel mouth gear. We upgraded to the more expensive snorkel mouth gear and glad we did as its' more protective of water getting into your mouth gear. IMPORTANT: Please be mindful of using only "Coral Reef Safe Sunscreen". I honestly didn't know this was a thing until we read the instructions prior to the tour. Most of the stuff you have is probably not reef safe. Don't worry, they do sell reef safe sunscreen at the store at the park. Save the reef!!! Now I know and knowing is half the battle. ;) Chris was our captain and Sonya was our first mate. They were AWESOME! Very informative and helpful throughout the tour. So great with the kids too. Make sure you arrive at least 1 hour prior to your snorkel time. The line to get into the park was a bit long and maybe took us 15 minutes to get to the front. We went on a Sunday and our time was 3pm, we arrived at 2pm with enough time to get through line to pay for park entrance and parking ($10), check in for snorkeling, get our gear, wait for instructions, met the crew, loaded up on the boat and headed out exactly at 3pm. There was someone who was maybe 1-2 minutes late and they left without them. People, they tell you "DON'T BE LATE!" So just putting it out there to be early! They will leave without you. They go over so many details and instructions prior to leaving, I don't blame them for not wanting to do their schpeel again. Ha. The whole snorkel tour is 2.5 hours. It takes a little while to get out to our snorkeling destination. You have 1 full hour to snorkel once we arrive. The water is crystal clear!!! So beautiful. You get to scope out the coral reef, jellyfish, barracuda, rainbow fish, and so much more pending on where you're looking or when you go. A big jellyfish the size of my head was swimming right in front of me when I got off the boat and it was so mesmerizing to watch. I didn't want to leave. Ha. Just be careful and don't get stung by one because it does burn!!! I got stung by a jellyfish in Italy and it's not fun. Ha. Great snorkel tour all in all and worth the price point. The customer service was great and the whole family had a ton of fun. #worthit

The kids and I decided to try snorkeling here instead of our usual go-to in Islamorada. It was easy to make the reservations online but a little difficult to find the location of the building to register. The staff at the desk was efficient and friendly enough. They directed us outside to a small pavilion where our group would be given safety overviews, etc. The woman doing that was an absolute crab with everyone, and it took a little excitement away. Some people were there from Europe, and the woman yelled at their little boy for accidentally inflating his life jacket. The captain rushed over to tell her to let it go. Speaking of the lifejackets: This was the most bizarre thing I have ever seen! We were all required to wear a bright yellow or blue life jacket for snorkeling! You could inflate/deflate them as needed, but it was just bizarre. Some things in life are becoming a big nanny state. The captains were okay. There was no real fun like music, humor, or drinks like the other company had. We didn't see too many fish, but getting to this area and checking it out was still fun. Would we go here again? Not at all. The life jackets alone would keep me from going back, but the crabby lady and dull trip would be a close second.

Travis and Lucas were awesome. They made the tour fun and entertaining. They made us feel safe and brought us to a great snorkeling spot. I didn't feel well and they were so nice to help me feel better. The price was amazing as well around $90 for the tour and fins. We brought our own snorkels and masks. We went on the Journey boat. I would advise to bring nausea medicine as we were advised it was a calm day and I have never gotten seasick before but I still managed to not feel well. But everyone else did not get sick. I was able to snorkel in the beginning and saw some beautiful fish and amazing coral.

Had a morning adventure with Captain Joel and his sidekick Zack. They both entertaining and knowledgeable, and I guess you could say in charge of safety. My wife enjoyed wearing the short wetsuit while I found it too warm for my taste even in late January. There is more than a rolling sea, but it really wasn't an issue. Beautiful fish to discover. We had a great time and Joel and Zach made it even more special.

Awesome day! So many beautiful fish! Highly recommend! The water is so clear and corals are stunning

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John Pennekamp Snorkel Tours

John Pennekamp snorkel tours to the reef in Key Largo available for private groups up to 12 people. Make lasting memories with your friends and family with an exclusive group tour to the stunning Key Largo Coral Reef. Just a 35min boat ride on our comfortable purpose built snorkel boats will get you to the amazing Key Largo reefs and you may see turtles and dolphins on the way.

We visit all the premier reefs in Key Largo where we often see a huge variety of fish and often turtles! Check out the onboard fish identification cards to see all the amazing wildlife you will need to look out for.

Reserve one of our exclusive and spacious Private Snorkel Tours to the Key Largo reef. The boat tour will just have your group aboard for the morning or afternoon trip. The reef location depends on you but our captain and crew will advise where they think the best conditions will be for that trip. This is based on their vast experience and being at the reef every day.

For $599 you will get our half day Private Snorkel Tour for up to 12 people.

Whats included in the John Pennekamp Snorkel Tours

This price includes our attentive and knowledgeable crew and snorkel equipment. All of our crews are specially trained by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary on management and conservation of our Key Largo reefs. Our snorkel equipment is top quality CRESSI equipment. You will be provided with Mask Snorkel and fins. All customers are required to wear a provided safety vest to ensure that you are visible in the water to other boaters. We also have noodles available for the ultimate ‘Stress Free Snorkel’!

Our boats have iced water on board for you to fill your water container. If you do not have a water container you are welcome to use our paper cups provided. You can also bring your own party food and drinks, let us know and we will make sure the cooler has plenty of ice!

You can go to any of the great snorkel sites listed on our pages or let us choose where to go in the John Pennekamp State Park .  It takes around 35 minutes to get to the reef. You will get up to 1 hr at each of the snorkel sites.  You can choose the first reef to snorkel at (subject to weather conditions). The Captain will suggest a choice of 2 as your second snorkel location. Boats are not permitted to anchor in the sanctuary specially protected areas and are required to use the mooring balls placed on the reef by the sanctuary. There are times when due to weather or mooring ball availability we may have limited options of somewhere suitable for you to move to for the second snorkel stop but we will do our best and explain the options to you.

Departure times of the Snorkel Tours

Private Snorkel Tours to Pennekamp reef leave from Pilot House marina at 8am and 1pm and return before 12 noon and 4.30pm respectively.  Check in times are 30 mins prior to departure so we can get off the dock early to get the best spots on the reef.

Want to leave a little later or come back earlier? No problem we can arrange this as long as the boat is back on the dock at its normal time!

Use or Book on line button and choose the ‘Go where you want’ option.

• SOUTH DAKOTA

Best John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park snorkeling spots in Key Largo 🐠 snorkeling tours + beach snorkeling from shore 🐠 Florida Keys travel blog

So John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is one of the most popular state parks in the Florida Keys.

It’s located on the “key” (island) of Key Largo.

And THE reason to go to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is for… the coral reef!

And one of the best things to do in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is to go snorkeling!

You can make it a day trip to Key Largo from Miami, or you can make a stop in Key Largo during your Florida Keys road trip on your way to Key West!

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo is considered one of the best snorkeling spots in the Florida Keys .

The “coral reef” as is in the name John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, is not located along the shores of the land of the state park.

Instead, it requires the boat ride to get to the coral reef.

So to see the best of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, you need to sign up for a tour.

I stayed overnight in John Pennekamp State Park, and did the snorkeling tour and shore snorkeling! Here’s what you need to know!

1. John Pennekamp State Park snorkeling tour

A snorkeling tour is THE best thing to do in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

There are a few different snorkeling spots along the reef, and which one you will go to will be based on the snorkeling conditions and where the boat captain decides to take you snorkeling! So it’s not something that you will choose a snorkeling tour based on which spot you want to go to.

The reef snorkeling spots in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park include:

• Turtle Rocks
• Basin Hill Shoals
• Key Largo Dry Rocks (Christ Statue)
• Grecian Rocks
• Higdon’s Reef
• Cannon Patch
• Mosquito Banks
• French Reef
• White Banks Reef
• Molasses Reef

My snorkeling tour went to the Grecian Rocks snorkeling spot.

Once you’ve made it to the reef, you can choose to jump into the ocean or take the ladder down into the ocean.

You’ll get around an hour of snorkeling time in the ocean and swimming in the open waters!

So yes, if you are going to do the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park snorkeling tour, you should know how to swim and be very comfortable with swimming.

Doing a John Pennekamp snorkeling tour also means a boat ride out to the reef with amazing views.

Amazing Key Largo snorkeling tour you need to consider:

• Florida Keys reef snorkeling trip from Key Largo

This website is a Viator partner.

2. Cannon Beach shipwreck snorkeling from shore

Cannon Beach is the main beach for John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

So once you enter the state park, you will drive to the main beach parking lot, and that is the beach.

By snorkeling from Cannon Beach, you can see the remains of cannons from a shipwreck.

3. Far Beach snorkeling from shore

Far Beach is the beach that is… more far away. 😜

But it’s really not that far.

You will just keep driving maybe an extra minute or so, and you will reach another parking, and that is for Far Beach (and the other snorkeling spot).

The parking lot is much smaller, and there tend to be less people at Far Beach.

I really didn’t see much of anything underwater here, aside from sea grass.

If you want some scenic pictures in John Pennekamp State Park without getting on a boat, you’ll want to go here.

You’ll be able to get pictures of palm trees!

4. Fossil rock beach snorkeling from shore

This snorkeling spot doesn’t have a name, but the swimming area is not directly connected to Far Beach so it’s not exactly snorkeling at Far Beach.

And so, you can consider it a different snorkeling spot.

This spot is marked as another snorkeling spot on the John Pennekamp State Park map.

You will park in the same parking lot as Far Beach.

Then, as you’re facing the water, it will be in the very left area.

You’ll see some big rocks here, and if you look carefully you will see fossilized coral reef.

Once you enter the water, you will swim out to the far left.

Once again, I did not see much here, but I did not go that far out.

If I were to try snorkeling in John Pennekamp State Park at this snorkeling spot again, I would try looking around the rocks to see if there are little fishies swimming around there!

If fossilized ancient coral reef interest you, then you’ll also want to check out Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park that’s down the road! ( info )

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park snorkeling tips

These are the 2 most popular ways to experience the coral reef of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park:

• Glass bottom boat

In both cases, you will take a boat ride out to the reef.

Can you do the John Pennekamp snorkeling tour even if you don’t want to go snorkeling?

If you have someone (or some people) in your group who don’t want to get in the water with you, they can still join you on the snorkeling tour.

It can be worth it just for the views if they think of it as a boat ride as opposed to a snorkeling tour.

The cost of the snorkeling tour will still be the same whether or not you get in the water.

If your whole group doesn’t want to get in the water, then there is also the John Pennekamp glass bottom boat tour that you can do. (Although, if you are prone to seasickness it may not be great. I didn’t think of myself as being prone to seasickness, but when I did the glass bottom boat tour I felt like I was starting to feel a little sick being indoors, constantly looking down, and being on the rocky seas!)

What can you see snorkeling in John Pennekamp State Park and the Florida Keys?

John Pennekamp or Bahia Honda for snorkeling tour?

John Pennekamp State Park and Bahia Honda State Park are both state parks in the Florida Keys that offer snorkeling tours. On both snorkeling tours, you’ll take a boat out to a reef.

If you will be heading further down south in the Florida Keys to Marathon FL or Key West FL, then you may want to see about doing the Bahia Honda State Park snorkeling tour instead.

I thought my experience of the Bahia Honda State Park snorkeling was amazing! It was Looe Key snorkeling tour from Bahia Honda State Park.

Looe Key is considered one of the best snorkeling spot in the Florida Keys.

So if you’re considering a snorkeling tour between John Pennekamp State Park or Bahia Honda State Park, I would choose Bahia Honda!

But if you will only be making it as far south as Key Largo, then I do still think the Pennekamp snorkeling tour is worth it.

No matter which snorkeling tour you choose, it’s important to know that sometimes snorkeling tours get cancelled.

It could be for reasons like visibility and snorkeling conditions, or it could be for other reasons.

Snorkeling tours can also sell out.

So it could be best to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

Can you snorkel from the shore in John Pennekamp State Park?

While the coral reef is the best of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, you can also go snorkeling at John Pennekamp from shore.

You can snorkel on your own in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park without a tour, but it is not the best snorkeling that the state park offers.

That said, the shore snorkeling in John Pennekamp State Park from the beach can be perfect for beginners. 

The John Pennekamp State Park beaches are generally more sheltered so the water will generally be calmer.

There are basically 3 snorkeling spots in John Pennekamp State Park from shore:

• Cannon Beach
• The fossil rock entrance near Far Beach

So you can snorkel at John Pennekamp State Park without a tour, but the snorkeling is not the best.

To be clear, the best snorkeling will be through a Johh Pennekamp State Park snorkeling tour.

You will see (very?) limited marine life by snorkeling from shore.

But if you want to give it a go, you might see something exciting!

Cost to go snorkeling at John Pennekamp State Park

The minimum to go snorkeling in John Pennekamp State Park will be the cost of the state park entry.

You will also need to pay for the cost of state park entry even if you are doing the snorkeling tour.

The cost of John Pennekamp State Park entry is around $5 if you are alone. It will be $9 if there are 2 of you, and then from there it will increase 50 cents per person for more people. This will get you a one-day pass. See current fees.

If you plan to make this a year of going to a ton of Florida state parks, then there is also the Florida state parks annual pass .

Although, even if you have a Florida state park pass, John Pennekamp State Park won’t be free for you.

This state park charges 50 cents to enter even with a Florida state park pass. This fee is assessed for the Monroe County fee. (aka the county of the Florida Keys.)

If you will only be snorkeling from shore, then the state park entry is the cost your snorkeling.

If you will be doing the snorkeling tour, then the cost of a John Pennekamp snorkeling tour is around $40 per person. See current fees.

Snorkeling gear is not included in the cost of the snorkeling tour.

You can bring your own snorkeling gear, or you can rent snorkeling gear at John Pennekamp State Park.

The cost of renting snorkeling gear is around $17 per person if you rent the snorkel, mask, and fins. (Although you keep the snorkel which is the thing you breathe through.) See current fees.

Seaweed on the beach at John Pennekamp State Park

As it goes in the Florida Keys, seaweed can be found all along the coastline. 

This includes John Pennekamp State Park.

The seaweed you see on the beach at John Pennekamp State Park, and across the Florida Keys, is said to be an important part of the coastal ecosystem.

It may not look very good, but it’s there for the environment!

John Pennekamp State Park picnic areas

And, as a Florida state park, you can always just stop by John Pennekamp State Park for a picnic!

There is also a food truck. Although it may not always be operating.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park map

And that’s a bit about snorkeling in John Pennekamp State Park!

My snorkeling trip to John Pennekamp State Park was in April 2022. Your experience may vary!

More snorkeling in the Florida Keys

• Bahia Honda State Park snorkeling
• Fort Zachary Taylor State Park snorkeling in Key West
• Looe Key snorkeling
• What to pack for snorkeling in the Florida Keys

PLUS: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park campground

HAPPY SNORKELING IN JOHN PENNEKAMP CORAL REEF STATE PARK!

Snorkeling at John Pennekamp Park

• State and National Parks

Snorkeling the reefs at John Pennekamp is one of the favorite activities at the park, and when you jump in the clear blue waters it's easy to see why...

...A colorful reef appears, vibrant and full of life...

Big fish and little fish, of all shapes, forms and colors... Bright soft corals and seafans swaying with the gentle surf... A turtle gliding by... A lobster hiding behind the rocks... Each time is unique, and always always magical.

The reefs, however, are NOT right off the beach at the park . They are between 3 to 8 miles offshore (hmmm too far to swim...) so getting to them involves a boat tour, which there are several provided by Pennekamp's Main Concession as well as the many outfits that operate outside the park.

Quick Reference: Snorkeling at John Pennekamp Park

• John Pennekamp Snorkeling Tours

Snorkeling Gear Rentals

The latest status and coronavirus measures for snorkel boat tours, pennekamp or key largo snorkel tour, what to bring, snorkeling from the beach at john pennekamp park.

The John Pennekamp Snorkeling Tours

It takes between 30 to 45 minutes to get out to the reefs, depending on which site they go to. Normally, the snorkeling tours go to the protected inner reefs and depths range from as shallow as 5 feet to 15 feet. You get at least one hour in the water. You should allow about three hours for the snorkeling tour altogether.

The crew is quite helpful with instructions and tips for beginner snorkelers, but if this is your first time, you might want to "practice" first at the beach with full gear, make sure the mask does not leak, the fins are not too tight, kick around a bit and get the hang of it.

This is a protected area, so be mindful of some basic rules which the staff will point out like not touching or standing on the coral, and not taking anything from the water, live or otherwise.

There are six regularly scheduled tours throughout the morning and afternoon. Cost is $29.95 for adults $24.95 for children. During holidays or when arriving later in the day you might want to make reservations as the spots go quick.

There is also an "extended" option that lasts 4.5 hours and brings you to two different spots. These boats leave at 9:00am and 1:45 pm only and cost $38.95. Space is more limited on these tours, booking ahead is a good idea.

A snorkeling vest is provided but snorkeling gear is NOT included in the tours, you can either bring your own (which most people do) or rent from the concession stand.

NEW: Private charters are now being offered, $500 for a group of 6 max. including all gear, a personal guide and drinks. Boats leave at 9:00 am and 1:30 pm

Snorkeling gear is available for rental at the park. This is one of the best assorted shops around. The gear is well maintained and in excellent condition and they carry all sizes, including children sizes, as well as prescriptions masks.

Available are masks $2, corrective masks $5, snorkels $5 (you get to keep it), semi-dry snorkel $9.95, Dry snorkel (highly recommended!) $19.95, fins $2, and wetsuits $6 if needed during the winter.

If joining the snorkel tours, safety vests are provided free of charge (and required in the water)

At this time, reservations will be accepted online through their website . The online calendar will show available dates offered 3 - 7 days in advance of trips. They will be adding more availability as it becomes safe to do so.

In addition, snorkeling tours will follow enhanced safety and health measures:

• Facial coverings are required to be worn from the time you are waiting to check-in until you off-board the vessel after the completion of the activity. This is in accordance to Miami-Dade County regulations. Facial coverings are not required for the short time of preparing enter the water to snorkel.
• A brightly colored swim vest must be worn and will be provided but you are encouraged to bring your own if you have one. At this time, you will be instructed NOT to inflate the borrowed vest since this is done through the mouthpiece.
• Social distancing guidelines on piers and boats must be followed.

Well-known John Pennekamp State Park is convenient and often the first spot most visitors come to access the reefs of the Florida Keys. What is worth noting, is that the offshore reefs which the boats from Pennekamp frequent, are also accesible through the many snorkel and dive operators in Key Largo, in fact, if you just keep driving, you will see the freeway lined with dive flags marking the hundreds of operators offering snorkel or scuba trips to the reefs.

This opens up many more options to those whose main purpose is to explore the reefs and nothing else, and here are some points to consider when deciding whether to snorkel or dive with a Key Largo shop or join one of the snorkel tours from Pennekamp.

• Pennekamp boats can be very crowded, people used to joke about seeing more snorkelers than fish in the water... You can find operators that will conduct tours with smaller groups.
• If not everyone in your group wants to snorkel, then Pennekamp is great since it has many other options. Some can go on the snorkel tour while the others chill by the beach, go for a stroll on the boardwalks, take a canoe or kayak out, or the glass-bottom boat, a different way to see the reefs. Everyone is happy.

Personally, we like the Pennekamp snorkel tour when visiting the park. Yes, they are a bit crowded, but once you are in the water, everyone disperses, the colors come to life and fish start darting around you, you won't even notice. And afterwards, we get to enjoy the park the rest of the day, relax by the beach, have a BBQ...

• Sun protection
• Bathing suit
• Dry change of clothes
• Drinking water
• Waterproof camera
• Snorkel gear if you have it
• If renting gear, you will need ID or Credit Card as deposit

There are three small beaches at the park and you do see people snorkeling around, but the snorkeling is dull when compared to the reefs. If you want crystal clear waters, lots of tropical fish, beautiful colors... well, this is not it.

The beaches are marked on the park's map as "snorkeling beaches" but the snorkeling is not really good. The bottom is sea grass, lots of sand gets stirred up by kids in the water BUT there is still lots to see if you really look.

There's always little critters in the seagrass and along the mangrove shore, perhaps silvery fish darting about... stuff may be difficult to see, visibility is not the greatest, but we always have a good time.

Here's more on snorkeling from the shore at Pennekamp.

John Pennekamp Snorkeling Trips at a Glance

Regular Tours: (Approx. 2.5 hours) Hours: 9:00am, 10:30am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:00 pm, 4:30pm Cost: Adults $29.95, Children (under 18) $24.95 Gear Rental is extra

Extended Tours: (Approx. 4.5 hours) Hours: 9:00am and 1:45pm Cost: Adults $38.95, Children $38.95 Gear Rental is extra

In addition to the above rates, you must pay the Park entrance fee as well.

More info, reservations and $5 off coupon: www.pennekamppark.com/snorkeling or call (305)-451-6300.

The Florida Keys Have Reopened! Get In The Water!

Book with confidence! Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund

John Penekamp Coral Reef State Park

The Visitor Center and Aquarium

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Pennekamp Park Map

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Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

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Pages:  379-406

In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E. Kilunovskaya and V. A. Semenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova  (Moscow, Russian Federation).  (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.  Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Kharis Mustafin  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Irina Alborova  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Alina Matzvai  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected]

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Gagarin Cup Preview: Atlant vs. Salavat Yulaev

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Gagarin cup (khl) finals:  atlant moscow oblast vs. salavat yulaev ufa.

Much like the Elitserien Finals, we have a bit of an offense vs. defense match-up in this league Final.  While Ufa let their star top line of Alexander Radulov, Patrick Thoresen and Igor Grigorenko loose on the KHL's Western Conference, Mytischi played a more conservative style, relying on veterans such as former NHLers Jan Bulis, Oleg Petrov, and Jaroslav Obsut.  Just reaching the Finals is a testament to Atlant's disciplined style of play, as they had to knock off much more high profile teams from Yaroslavl and St. Petersburg to do so.  But while they did finish 8th in the league in points, they haven't seen the likes of Ufa, who finished 2nd. 

This series will be a challenge for the underdog, because unlike some of the other KHL teams, Ufa's top players are generally younger and in their prime.  Only Proshkin amongst regular blueliners is over 30, with the work being shared by Kirill Koltsov (28), Andrei Kuteikin (26), Miroslav Blatak (28), Maxim Kondratiev (28) and Dmitri Kalinin (30).  Oleg Tverdovsky hasn't played a lot in the playoffs to date.  Up front, while led by a fairly young top line (24-27), Ufa does have a lot of veterans in support roles:  Vyacheslav Kozlov , Viktor Kozlov , Vladimir Antipov, Sergei Zinovyev and Petr Schastlivy are all over 30.  In fact, the names of all their forwards are familiar to international and NHL fans:  Robert Nilsson , Alexander Svitov, Oleg Saprykin and Jakub Klepis round out the group, all former NHL players.

For Atlant, their veteran roster, with only one of their top six D under the age of 30 (and no top forwards under 30, either), this might be their one shot at a championship.  The team has never won either a Russian Superleague title or the Gagarin Cup, and for players like former NHLer Oleg Petrov, this is probably the last shot at the KHL's top prize.  The team got three extra days rest by winning their Conference Final in six games, and they probably needed to use it.  Atlant does have younger regulars on their roster, but they generally only play a few shifts per game, if that. 

The low event style of game for Atlant probably suits them well, but I don't know how they can manage to keep up against Ufa's speed, skill, and depth.  There is no advantage to be seen in goal, with Erik Ersberg and Konstantin Barulin posting almost identical numbers, and even in terms of recent playoff experience Ufa has them beat.  Luckily for Atlant, Ufa isn't that far away from the Moscow region, so travel shouldn't play a major role. 

I'm predicting that Ufa, winners of the last Superleague title back in 2008, will become the second team to win the Gagarin Cup, and will prevail in five games.  They have a seriously well built team that would honestly compete in the NHL.  They represent the potential of the league, while Atlant represents closer to the reality, as a team full of players who played themselves out of the NHL. 

• Atlant @ Ufa, Friday Apr 8 (3:00 PM CET/10:00 PM EST)
• Atlant @ Ufa, Sunday Apr 10 (1:00 PM CET/8:00 AM EST)
• Ufa @ Atlant, Tuesday Apr 12 (5:30 PM CET/12:30 PM EST)
• Ufa @ Atlant, Thursday Apr 14 (5:30 PM CET/12:30 PM EST)

Games 5-7 are as yet unscheduled, but every second day is the KHL standard, so expect Game 5 to be on Saturday, like an early start. 

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