Key West Sandbar Charter
Discover the beauty of Key West’s turquoise waters on a sandbar adventure. Relax, swim, and explore paradise your way
Locally owned and operated with over 2000 individual trips and all 5-star reviews
Why Choose a Private Sandbar Charter in Key West?
When you book a private Key West sandbar charter with Make It So Charters, you’re not just getting a boat ride — you’re getting an exclusive island adventure.
Our captains know every secret sandbar, quiet cove, and wildlife hotspot in the Lower Keys. From swimming and snorkeling to floating with friends and dolphins, your charter day is customized to exactly how you want it.
What Makes Our Sandbar Trips Stand Out
Custom Adventures
Choose your destinations, activities, and vibe. Every Key West sandbar trip is completely private and tailored to your group.
Local Expertise
Captain Howie and Captain Manda have been the only two captains since Make It So Charters began. With years of experience on the water and a deep love for the Keys, they know the hidden sandbars, backcountry channels, and quiet reef spots that most tourists never see — giving you a truly authentic Key West experience, every time.
Unforgettable Memories
From dolphins at play to sunsets over the flats, every charter is designed to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
Included for your adventure...
- Custom itinerary — sandbars, snorkeling, dolphin watching & more
- Cooler with ice and bottled water — BYO drinks, we keep them cold
- Bluetooth sound system — play your favorite music on the water
- Plenty of shade — Bimini top for sun protection
- Snorkel gear — explore the clear, shallow waters
- Floating mats & loungers — perfect for relaxing at the sandbar
- Local captain & guide — fun, friendly, and full of stories
Key West Sandbar Adventures
See why our guests call this the best day of their vacation. Every photo below was taken on our private Key West sandbar charters — crystal-clear water, happy faces, and pure paradise.
EXCELLENT Based on 77 reviews Posted on Justin SVerified “Make It So” MADE It So Post-Hurricane Milton! THANK YOU Captain “Howie”!!! So, we were in Key West for a 25th anniversary trip when hurricane Milton rolled through. Needless to say, A LOT of our plans got postponed and/or canceled. Thankfully, the Capt. scoped things out and found us calm waters only ONE day after the storm. We were able to explore sandbars, see stingrays and birds, find some cool shells, and the hubby even tried his hand at barracuda fishing. Capt took us to the most beautiful mangrove alcove and even attempted a trip out to the very angry gulf to find some lobsters. Visibility was less-than-ideal but we were grateful he even tried and loved the adventure! Thank you for taking a chance and giving us an amazing post-hurricane day on the water!Posted on Shanelle MVerified Perfect Day on the Water with “Make it So” Charters Our sandbar adventure with “Make it So” Charters was simply extraordinary. With two boats and seven friends, Captains Howie and Manda went above and beyond to make sure our day was perfect. Not only did they steer us clear of rain, but they also led us to a secluded sandbar where we had the place all to ourselves.Captain Howie brought out all the stops, including a unique floating water table where we enjoyed our grilled burgers and hot dogs right in the ocean. And we absolutely adored Gabi, the “First Pup,” who charmed us all with her sweet, friendly nature.But the day’s true highlight was when a pod of dolphins appeared, swimming gracefully under our boats. It was an unforgettable spectacle that made our experience truly magical.If you’re looking for an unforgettable day on the water, “Make it So” Charters is the way to go. We couldn’t recommend them more!Posted on Daniel GVerified The Perfect Charter Experience Absolutely brilliant day on the water. Captain Howie was so great to deal with from beginning to end… the boat was modern and comfortable… we even had an up close and personal encounter with a whole pod of dolphins. 100% recommend.Posted on Companion20440723882Verified Awesome trip! Don’t waste your time or money with anyone else. Amazing time! Mandy was great! She took us snorkeling to a ship wreck and the we chilled out at the sandbars. It was the best excursion we did so far.Posted on Mike and CourtneyVerified Great charter!!! Captain Amanda and Captain Howie were amazing! They were extremely accommodating and knowledgeable. We had a great time visiting the sandbars!Posted on Boda1968Verified Worth every penny! I highly recommend this tour if you’re looking to get out on the water! My husband and I let Captain Howie choose the spots. He had great information and it was absolutely gorgeous! When booking, he gives you the option to have his dog, Gabby, along for the ride. She was the cherry on top of our fabulous outing! She is easy going and it was so fun to see how much she enjoys being out on the boat and in the water!Posted on jimVerified Fun in the sun in the keys! Second time using charter. We were lucky enough to have captain Amanda again. We Weren’t disappointed. 1st time was with kids (family of 6) and this time couples (4 of us). Amanda knows the keys like the back of her hand and takes you to the best spots! Boat was spotless. Absolutely when ever we go to keys will be booking and requesting Amanda.Posted on Jeanine SVerified A Must Do experience Our 6-hour charter with Captain Amanda was spectacular and fun. It was easy to book, I simply called and spoke with Captain Howie. Amanda knows her stuff. She’s a brilliant captain, with deep knowledge of the waterways, sandbars, mangroves, and lots of fun KW facts. She took us to a few sandbars, served us our drinks, set up a table in the water, provided snorkel gear, noodles. She made sure I got the best snorkel experience I could, given the windy weather. I saw loads of fish, a wreck and came up close and personal with southern stingrays. It was our 2nd trip with Make it So and Amanda, won’t be our last.Posted on Mindy MVerified A great day at the sand bars!!! Manda was an amazing. It was the best day of our vacation. She was very informative, hospitable, easy going and fun. I would definitely recommend to anyone!!Posted on Shannon FVerified Heaven The captain was very educational. She took us to a great sandbar and we just hung out all day relaxing.
EXCELLENT Based on 101 reviews Posted on Simonne SequeiraTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. TJ was the best host & captain :) he provided us great service, was super nice & accommodating and showed us some great spots! Took us to 3 spots for the day & it was wonderful 10/10 would do it againPosted on Nathan HryniewiczTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our ride was definitely the best part of my trip, and I did a lot of fun stuff so it’s saying a lot! Todd is the best!Posted on Diego DiazTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great time with Makeitso charters. Our third trip with them. Unforgettable Day on the Water! We had an amazing time dolphin watching and relaxing at the Snippes sandbar! The captain (Howie) was fantastic—knowledgeable, friendly, and made the whole trip fun and stress-free. Beautiful boat, stunning scenery, and unforgettable memories. Highly recommend this Key West charter!Posted on Brandy DunkinTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Another great trip with Capt Howie and MISC! This is our 5th or 6th trip with them. Spotted a turtle, great snorkeling, and chillin on the sandbar!Posted on Barbara BTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our best aftermarket in Key West. We have chartered with Captain Howie three times over the last two years. This trip we went to a beautiful sandbar, explored the mangroves, and watched a pod of dolphins. Capt. Howie is a great host and a wealth of local knowledge. We will go again the next time we are in the Zkeys.Posted on Bryn BTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was a really fun day, with a wonderful skipper! Knowledgeable, thoughtful, and relaxed. Loved it.Posted on Allie YoumansTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. “If you’re not on the water while you’re in Key West, you’re doing it wrong.” We had the absolute best time with Manda during our 4 hour cruise. She took us through mangroves and pointed out wildlife and showed us where hidden beaches and swings were for great photo ops. We then went to a sandbar and enjoyed being in the water. 10/10 everyone should book with them while in Key West. Highly recommend. Great experience and one of the highlights of our trips.Posted on Veronica ShafferTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Captain Howie is a one of a kind. He is truly knowledgeable when it comes to navigating the waters around Key West. He took us to a a beautiful sandbar for swimming, then a backstage tour through the mangroves where he introduced us to Ralph the pelican 😂. Then we went to two little fishing areas where we caught a barracuda and a snapper! We had a blast on the water and will never forget the fun we had with Captain Howie. Wish I could give 100 stars! Highly recommend this experience.Posted on Peter LTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Captain Howe was awesome, he went above and beyond to show us a good time and his 1st Mate Gabby was amazing, she showed us her secret swimming spot!Posted on Tina HansenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a fantastic day with Captain Howie! His charter service came highly recommended by some Iowa friends who use him frequently. Captain Howie was very attentive to the type of personal experience we wanted for our day/sunset cruise and he did not disappoint. He not only explained where we were boating, but filled us in on the local lore and history of the waters. We saw a lot of sea life including a sea turtle, egrets , cranes and dolphins. Captain Howie even gave us great recommendations for restaurants and bars when we went into Key West. There are so many charters to choose from but we were tremendously satisfied with our choice. We will certainly be booking with him again when we return to Key West!Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
EXCELLENT Based on 1 reviews Posted on David HansonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. Just exactly what we were looking for. The trip was whatever we wanted to do and Captain Howie was awesome. We got to meet captain Amanda and she was really nice. If you are going out on the water this is the company you wantPosted on Paul WachterTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. Awesome trip great captain. Clean and neat captain was on time boat was ready to go. We had an absolute blast. Never a boring time on. Make it so charterers.Posted on Steve KnickTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. We booked a charter with Make It So Charters last month and couldn't have been more pleased with our time on the water. We've used a few different charters to go visit the sand bars and Make it So is one of the absolute best. You won't find a better deal for a charter as customizable as Make it So, and probably won't find a better Captain than Capt. Todd. I would highly recommend to others.Posted on Misty Leyendecker-MisbahTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. We had an excellent afternoon with Captain Howie; we did the afternoon ride and got to see the mangroves, sandbars (sting ray, baby shark, and starfish!). The best part was the incredible sunset views! Absolutely breathtaking from the water.Posted on LayKnee ConwizzleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. This is our second trip out with Todd and it won't be our last! Such a chill guy. Such a great trip. Hungout on a private island, went fishing, saw dolphins and watched the sunset. 10 out of 10 recommend booking with Make It So Charters. Their prices are reasonable and you won't be disappointed!!Posted on Shanelle MartinezTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. Our sandbar adventure with “Make it So” Charters was simply extraordinary. With two boats and seven friends, Captains Howie and Manda went above and beyond to make sure our day was perfect. Not only did they steer us clear of rain, but they also led us to a secluded sandbar where we had the place all to ourselves. Captain Howie brought out all the stops, including a unique floating water table where we enjoyed our grilled burgers and hot dogs right in the ocean. And we absolutely adored Gabi, the “First Pup,” who charmed us all with her sweet, friendly nature. But the day’s true highlight was when a pod of dolphins appeared, swimming gracefully under our boats. It was an unforgettable spectacle that made our experience truly magical. If you’re looking for an unforgettable day on the water, “Make it So” Charters is the way to go. We couldn’t recommend them more!Posted on Brian StatdfieldTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. Full day charter with Captain Howie - this charter was the highlight of our trip to Key West. Beautiful sand bars, mangroves, and wildlife. Captain Howie knows his waters and tells some fun facts along the way. Boat is clean and has everything you need. Highly recommended and will be back to book with Make it So again someday!Posted on Carrie MannTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. Love seeing these captains out there! Everyone is so Happy.Posted on Kathleen Metzger WilliamsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. If you truly want a unique Sandbar experience in Key West, Florida… Go with Make it so boat charters. Captain Howie is amazing and he truly has a way of making sure you have the best day ever! He is true to the company’s name! We reserved Tuesday 8/23/22 for my birthday with Captain Howie for not just one boat but two boats! Captain Amanda was awesome, she made sure we had a blast on what we called the Girls boat which was myself, our daughter, our daughters best friend and our friend Kristy and Captain Howie had my husband, our son and our friend Tad on the Guys Boat and Captain Howie is an on point D.J with the music! We went to two different sandbars that had nobody else around. It was like our own private oasis! At our request We had lunch at Hurricane hole. But before and after lunch, were able to snorkel, swim, float around and we saw dolphins swimming in the water and another awesome part…we had the company of the first mates, fur babies; Gabby, Moe and Monte. We are a dog loving family and it was great to swim with the dogs on a sandbar! At the 3rd sandbar spot…As a super surprise, Captain Howie had a birthday cake in the middle of the water on a table! I was stunned! Never in my life did I think that could be done! I thanked my husband and he said, that he would of done it but he didn’t know that was even an option to ask for, lol. but this was ALL CAPTAIN HOWIE! I am so grateful that my husband found Make it so charters when he was researching boat charters. We will definitely use Make it So charters next year! Thank you Captain Howie & Captain Amanda!!Posted on Susan Mclaughlin HughesTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. Such a fun afternoon with Captain Howie ! So many beautiful sights to see and explore! Thank you again Captain Howie !Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
Frequently Asked Questions
How many guests can we take?
The Coast Guard limits private charters to a total of six guests, not including the captain. Young children and infants do count toward this limit. Got more than six? No problem—we have a second boat that can join the fun, adding a unique twist to the whole experience.
Do your boats have shade?
Both of our boats feature shaded areas, giving you the freedom to decide how much sun you’d like to enjoy.
Is food included?
Prefer to bring your own? Most guests do — but if you’d like, we can provide mini sandwiches and sodas at no extra charge. Just mention it in your booking notes. The sandwiches are small deli meat sliders, served with your choice of Coke or Diet Coke. No substitutions, please.
What is your refund policy?
If you’re planning a trip to Key West and thinking about booking with us — just book it. We’re as laid back as the island itself. If your plans change, no problem — we offer a full refund with just 24 hours’ notice.
No stress. No pressure. No explanation needed. If you don’t want to go out, we don’t either.
NEW: Price Match Guarantee!
We’re confident we offer the best value in Key West — and if you find a lower published rate for a comparable private charter, we’ll match it. No gimmicks, no fine print. Just unbeatable service, guaranteed. Prices listed are for up to 6 guests, with no extra miscellaneous fees and no fuel surcharge.