Key West 6-Hour Party Boat Reef Fishing — Classic Family-Friendly Charter
Board a 58-foot Gulfstream IV and head to the reef for a six-hour, family-friendly fishing trip from Key West. Crews handle bait and tackle while you fish for snapper, grouper and mackerel—keep or release your catch and enjoy restrooms and shaded seating onboard.
The Experience
Before You Go
Sun protection is essential
The tropical sun reflects off the water—bring high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Bring motion-sickness prevention
If you get seasick, take medication ahead of time and sit midship where motion is gentlest.
Pack a small cooler and cash
Coolers are allowed and a few dollars in cash help with per-fish cleaning fees and tips for the crew.
Arrive early for check-in and parking
Give yourself extra time for parking near Historic Seaport and to get your bearings before departure.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the Historic Seaport after the trip for local fish houses and dockside views of Charter Boat Row
- •Fort Zachary Taylor State Park—head there for a post-trip swim and calm beach access often less crowded than downtown beaches
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins often bow-ride near the boat
- •Green sea turtles and reef fish like snapper frequent the shallows
Conservation Note
The Florida Keys reef system is sensitive—adhere to size and bag limits, avoid taking protected species, and ask mates about best-practice handling for catch-and-release.
Key West’s Charter Boat Row grew around the postwar fishing boom; Gulfstream Fishing operates on traditions established by local captains since 1947.
What to Bring
High-SPF sunscreenEssential
Protects against strong tropical sun during the open-deck portions of the trip.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare for spotting fish and protects eyes from reflected UV.
Non-slip deck shoesEssential
Provides secure footing on a wet boat deck when casting or reeling.
Motion-sickness medication or wristbandsEssential
Helps prevent nausea for riders sensitive to boat motion.
Common Questions
Are fishing rods and tackle provided?
Yes—party boats typically provide rods, basic tackle and bait; crew will assist with rigging and knots.
Can children and first-timers participate?
Yes—this trip is family-friendly with crew assistance; there are restrooms and shaded seating onboard.
What species might we catch and can we keep them?
Common catches include snapper, grouper and Spanish mackerel; you may keep legal fish subject to state and federal size and bag limits and a small cleaning fee.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips may be canceled for unsafe conditions—check cancellation policies and the 24-hour full-refund window, and dress in layers for changing sea breezes.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Key West, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for people of most fitness levels; requires standing for periods and basic mobility to move around the deck
Ready to Explore Key West?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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