Whether you are a first time snorkeler or a seasoned diver, Fort Lauderdale is a great place to experience the aquatic life in its many coral reefs. You can reach many of these sites from the shore, but if you would like to see the entire reef, you should hire a boat. There are plenty of charters that offer private tours, and you can customize the itinerary so that you can see the sites you most want to see.
For a more affordable option, you can opt for a public snorkel tour. These tours often include snorkeling equipment and a tour guide, and they also include snorkeling lessons. Some tours even include photos of the underwater sights you will be seeing. These tours are also a great way to see the marine life in the area, and to learn more about the coral reefs. You should always wear a swim shirt and a rash guard, and you should also take along a waterproof backpack or dry bag. Wetsuits are also recommended when the water gets below 25 degrees Celsius.
One of the best snorkeling sites in Fort Lauderdale is the Datura Avenue Shipwreck. The shipwreck is located at a depth of 12 to 14 feet. The ship was unintentionally sunk in 1900, and today, the remains are visible among the backdrop of a coral reef. Dixie Divers is a local dive shop that runs frequent trips to the wreck.
Another great snorkeling spot in Fort Lauderdale is the Twin Ledges. This is a shallow reef located just 400 yards off shore. It is home to a nurse shark, a rainbow parrotfish, and angelfish. The top of the reef is about 15 feet deep, while the western ledge is shallower. The water here is warm and clear, making it a great spot to take in some of the aquatic life.
The Vista Park Reef is another great place to snorkel in Fort Lauderdale. This is a coral formation that is located about 1,000 feet out from the shore. The waters here are aquamarine, and there are a variety of schools of fish. The site is also home to eels, lobster, and manta rays. The best time to snorkel here is early in the morning, as this is when the water is warms up.
Vista Park Reef is one of the hidden gems of snorkeling in Florida. It is usually not crowded and is a great way to see Florida from a new perspective. It is also home to bright corals and other schooling fish. The best part about this site is that the water is always clear, and you will be able to see a variety of other marine life as you snorkel.
Some snorkeling tours offer noodle floats, and other tours include soft drinks and light snacks. You may also find that some tours include an underwater camera, and you will be able to take pictures of the aquatic life in Fort Lauderdale. All tours will include a snorkel and mask.
The best time to snorkel in Fort Lauderdale is during the summer months. The water temperature is usually between 29 and 35 degrees Celsius, making the activity more enjoyable. While most of the reefs in the area are shallow, you can find a few deeper reefs, like the one at Hollywood North Beach Park. It is also a good location to see nurse sharks and barracuda.