If you are planning a holiday to Florida's Key West then you definitely have to try some snorkeling. The seas here are calm and clear and the reefs provide a stunning display of colorful coral and tropical fish. Most of the reefs are located in shallow water so visibility is excellent.

For all you non-snorkeling folk out there, snorkeling is pretty easy to learn and boat crews are always willing to lend some helpful pointers. All you need is a snorkel, flippers, a mask and a safety vest which are provided by most boats for those who do not have their own.

Most Key West boats engaged in snorkeling usually head out in the mornings at around 9.30 p.m. and are back at midday, while afternoon trips start from about 1 p.m. Several boats also head out during the early evenings so as to give you a chance to catch the sunset. However, if you really are into snorkeling and want great value for money, then the best thing to do is book an all day excursion which gives you more time to explore the wonders of the sea. Most day trip boats also provide breakfast and lunch which contributes towards justifying the higher cost.

If you own an underwater camera the best time to go snorkeling is in the afternoons when the sun is at its peak. While boats head to different parts of the Key West reef, try and find one going to Sand Key which has some great snorkeling spots. Other than that, remember while snorkeling not to take an "underwater souvenir" home with you no matter how pretty it looks, because the reef, its coral and fish are all one big ecosystem which depend on each other for survival.