Cattywampus
KNOW BEFORE YOU SNORKEL
Destin/FWB are not typically known destinations for great snorkeling, and If you have snorkeled in the Caribbean, or other exotic places, you may be disappointed in the snorkeling here. However, there are several varieties of tropical fish, crabs, and other marine life that you may see here but seeing them is dependent on the following factors.
Tides- The best time to snorkel in this area is during high tide. The clean gulf water is pushed into the bay via the Destin East pass. The clean water also pushes fish into our snorkeling sites. This is the best time for snorkeling in our area.
Rainfall- If we get storms( Hurricanes) or a lot of rain via thunderstorms, in a short period of time, the rivers drain into the bay and also into the snorkeling areas. This run off can cloud the water with particles and inhibit visibility. The Bay water is normally a tea color from the tannins leached from the leaves of the trees. This doesn't mean the water is unclean, but it may lead to fewer fish being visible on a trip.
Location- The Destin Jetty's are the best location in the area for snorkeling. However, the water is deep, there is a current and there are many boats and people visiting this location. For these reasons, we DO NOT take our passengers there. We have chosen instead to provide novice swimmers, first time snorkelers and families with very young children the opportunity to try snorkeling in the Bay where it is shallow, less crowded and safe. We do see varieties of tropical fish, crabs, hermit crabs and other marine life at this location, providing the conditions above are favorable.
Join us for a day on the water on our custom built, powered catamaran! It's the only one like it on the Emerald Coast. The Cattywampus is the perfect vessel to enjoy unique eco cruises offering some of the best sights and unforgettable experiences. Captain Tony and his first mate will give you a tour from Okaloosa Island to the Destin Harbor and into the Gulf of Mexico in search of our dolphin friends. We even make a stop to jump in the water to swim and snorkel.
We offer dolphin watching tours with a stop to get in the water on all of our cruise times. Our cruises are 3 hours long. Guests are welcome to bring your own food, drinks, and small cooler. You may bring alcohol for guests 21yrs or older, please avoid glass. You are welcome to bring your own mask and snorkel. Snorkeling gear is available on board for guests. Capt and crew sanitize gear after every use. Don’t forget your towel and sunscreen!
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