CraigCat Boat Tours?

Question

Has anyone ridden in a CraigCat boat? I saw someplace that offers tours, but there aren't a lot of reviews. The tour goes through the mangroves and some backcountry islands. The boats hold two people side by side. Would love to know your experiences. I was thinking this might be more fun to me than riding on the back of a jet ski. We kayaked through the mangroves and enjoyed it. What do you guys think? How fast do they go and are they a pretty smooth ride? It's a two hour tour.

Answer

The CraigCat boat tours are a unique and fun way to explore the waters around Key West, especially if you’re looking for something different from the typical jet ski experience. The boats are small, two-person vessels that allow you to ride side by side while navigating through the mangroves and backcountry islands of the Florida Keys. Here’s what you can expect from a CraigCat boat tour:

Ride Experience

The CraigCat boats are smaller than traditional boats but still offer a comfortable and smooth ride. They are powered by small motors, typically around 30 horsepower, and can reach speeds of around 25–30 mph, which is fast enough for a thrilling but controlled ride. While they’re not as fast as a jet ski, they offer a more stable ride, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for something fun but with a little more comfort and less splash.

Smoothness: The boats are designed to glide over the water, making the ride smooth for the most part. However, you may experience some bumps if you hit choppier waters, but nothing extreme like a jet ski might give you. The dual-hull design helps reduce the impact of waves.
Speed: While not as fast as jet skis, the CraigCat boats provide a satisfying speed that still allows you to cover a lot of ground. You’ll be able to zip through the mangroves and islands, but you won’t be racing like on a jet ski. It’s a more leisurely but still exciting ride.

Tour Details

The two-hour tour typically covers the backcountry areas of the Keys, including the mangroves, where you can spot wildlife like birds, fish, and maybe even dolphins or manatees. You’ll also cruise through some of the smaller islands, which gives you a chance to experience Key West from a different perspective—more natural and tranquil compared to the hustle and bustle of downtown.

Comparison to Kayaking and Jet Skis

Kayaking: If you enjoyed kayaking through the mangroves, you’ll likely enjoy the CraigCat boats as well. The boats offer a similar scenic experience, but with the added thrill of speed and the ability to cover more area. It's a more relaxed experience compared to kayaking, as you’re not paddling, but you still get to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Jet Ski: For those who prefer a faster, more exhilarating ride, a jet ski is an exciting option, but it comes with more splash, noise, and a potentially bumpier ride. The CraigCat boats offer a more comfortable experience if you want something less physically demanding but still fun and adventurous. Plus, they allow you to chat with your partner during the ride, whereas on a jet ski, communication can be tricky because of the noise.

Are They a Good Option?

If you’re looking for something that combines fun, speed, and comfort, the CraigCat boat tour is an excellent option. It provides a thrilling ride through the mangroves and islands without the physical exertion required by kayaking and without the splash and noise of jet skis. The boats are small, easy to maneuver, and perfect for a two-person tour, so it’s a great way to explore the beautiful waters around Key West at your own pace.

If you’re not looking for extreme speed and want something that’s still engaging but a bit more relaxed, CraigCat boats would be a great choice. You’ll get to experience the beauty of Key West’s natural environment in a fun, comfortable, and unique way.