On most Islamorada boat tours, including ours, beverages are already included, and you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and food. There’s no need to pack drinks, but a few personal snacks for picky eaters or growing kids are always fine. Here’s a clear rundown of what’s provided, what you can bring, and the simple etiquette of eating and drinking on the water.
What’s Already Included
Before you start packing a cooler, it’s worth knowing what comes with your tour. On Clearly Unique Charters trips, complimentary beverages are provided throughout. On the snorkeling and sandbar combo, that includes beer, wine, and refreshments alongside non-alcoholic options. The drinks are part of the experience, so hydration and a little fun are already covered.
That means the most common reason people bring a cooler, drinks, is usually unnecessary. You can show up, settle in, and enjoy what’s aboard without lugging anything yourself.
Can You Bring Your Own Food?
Yes. While beverages are included, food generally isn’t provided beyond light refreshments, so you’re welcome to bring snacks or a light meal. This is especially handy for families with kids who get hungry on a schedule, anyone with specific dietary needs, or guests who simply like having a favorite snack on hand.
Good options for boat snacks are things that travel well and don’t make a mess: granola bars, fruit, sandwiches, crackers, trail mix, pretzels, and similar. On the sunset cruise in particular, many guests like to bring a few snacks to enjoy with their drinks as the sun goes down, it’s a nice touch for a relaxed evening on the water.
Can You Bring Your Own Alcohol?
Since beer and wine are included on the combo tour, most guests don’t need to bring their own. If you have a specific preference or a special occasion in mind, the best move is to ask when you book. For private charters, there’s more flexibility to arrange specific beverages or bring your own, that’s part of what makes a private charter customizable. Just clear it with us in advance so we can plan accordingly.
A quick word on responsibility: the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere is part of what makes our tours special. Enjoying the included beer and wine is part of the fun, but the focus is on a great experience for everyone aboard, not a party scene.
What to Know About Coolers and Containers
If you do bring food, a few practical pointers. Soft-sided coolers or insulated bags are easier to stow than large hard coolers and take up less precious deck space. Pack out what you pack in, keeping the boat and the water clean is something we take seriously in the Florida Keys.
Avoid glass containers where possible. Glass and boat decks don’t mix well, broken glass is a hazard near bare feet and in the water. Cans, pouches, and plastic or reusable containers are the safer choice. And keep quantities reasonable; you don’t need much for a 2 to 3.5-hour tour, especially with beverages already provided.
Staying Hydrated and Fed for the Best Experience
Snorkeling and time in the sun work up an appetite and burn through your energy more than you’d expect. Eating a sensible meal before your trip and having a light snack available helps you feel your best on the water. Just don’t overdo it right before boarding, a moderately full stomach is ideal, while being overly full can contribute to queasiness for those sensitive to motion.
For the full rundown of what to pack for your day, our what to bring guide covers snacks alongside everything else worth having aboard.
What You Don’t Need to Bring
To save you packing space: you don’t need to bring drinks, they’re included. You don’t need to bring snorkeling gear, professional-grade equipment is provided. And you don’t need elaborate meals, a 2 to 3.5-hour tour doesn’t call for a full picnic spread. Keep it light and simple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are drinks included on the tour?
Yes. Complimentary beverages are provided throughout all our tours. The snorkeling and sandbar combo includes beer, wine, and refreshments along with non-alcoholic options, so you don’t need to bring your own drinks.
Can I bring snacks for my kids?
Absolutely. Bringing snacks for children, or for anyone with specific dietary needs, is always fine. Pack things that travel well and avoid glass containers for safety.
Can I bring my own alcohol?
Beer and wine are included on the combo tour, so most guests don’t need to. For private charters or special requests, ask when booking and we’ll do our best to accommodate. Please avoid glass containers aboard.
Ready to relax on the water with everything taken care of? Book your tour online or call us at (305) 413-8307. Bring your appetite, we’ll handle the rest.
