Islamorada
Instant Confirmation
Trips from
US $300
Captain
Bamboo Charters
Islamorada, United States
50+ reviews
I first experienced the Florida Keys up close in 1981 during my SCUBA certification dives. Over three days, I made eight dives and was instantly hooked! I worked as a Divemaster and later as a PADI SCUBA Instructor during my summer breaks from college. In 1989, I moved to Islamorada and began teaching SCUBA full-time. Two years later, I bought the dive operation from my boss. We had two boats for diving and snorkeling, and I used a skiff to explore Florida Bay and Everglades National Park.
In 1998, I sold the dive operation to my staff and started an adventure charter service. We offered private charters featuring fishing, snorkeling, sandbar trips, and sunset cruises. Today, I operate four boats providing private adventures ranging from 2 to 8 hours, with many activities to choose from. All trips are run by myself and my team of professional captains.
My favorite adventure combines eco-touring and snorkeling. We start by exploring mangrove islands in Florida Bay, learning about this fascinating ecosystem. Then, we head to a nearby shallow reef or Alligator Reef Lighthouse for snorkeling. With many shallow reefs close to our marina in Islamorada, there's plenty to see. We can also visit the Islamorada Sandbar for a swim or stop at one of the excellent waterfront bars for fresh seafood and drinks. To cap off the trip, we can catch the stunning sunset over Florida Bay.
For fishing, whether in the bay or on the reef, there's a wide variety of fish to catch. My favorite moments are teaching kids to reel in snappers, jacks, groupers, and other reef fish. When they're ready for a challenge, we can target barracudas weighing up to 20 pounds.
Charter
Rating
5.0
69 reviews
5.0
Boat & Equipment
5.0
Captain & Crew
5.0
Experience
All reviews (69)
Showing 31 – 35 of 69 reviews
Tom Lynaugh
New Jersey, US•Member since 20255.0VerifiedGreat Afternoon
Private Snorkel Charter (3hr / PM) • 6 adultsHighly recommend Bamboo Charters. Captain Matt was a professional and knowledgeable host. Had a fantastic time on the water.
Response from CaptainThanks, Tom. I appreciate the business. You guys were a blast. Stay warm this winter in Jersey and when you need to thaw out come on back down!
Valeri MartinVirginia, US•Member since 20265.0VerifiedBeautiful unobstructed sunset
1 Hour - Sunset Trip (PM) • 4 adultsVery relaxing way to spend an hour and catch unobstructed views of the beautiful sunset on the bay
Response from CaptainOur sunsets are crowd pleasers….. but never crowded! thanks for coming out with us
Nicholas DauPennsylvania, US•Member since 20255.0VerifiedA Great Trip
2 Hour - Private Charter (PM) • 2 adultsFun time snorkeling! Captain was friendly and knowledgeable about the wildlife. We had a great time!
Response from CaptainThe conditions were the keys to a great afternoon of snorkeling. light winds, calm seas and Turquoise waters were epic! Thank you for coming out Capt Matt Bellinger.
Kelly OberschlakeAlabama, US•Member since 20255.0VerifiedThe PERFECT Day!
Private Snorkel Charter (3hr / PM) • 2 adultsWe truly had the perfect day! We had a great time! Captain Matt was great!
Response from CaptainThe weather cooperated for us and and we were able to enjoy tye water on the Islamorada Sandbar. Thank you for coming out for the afternoon. Capt Matt Bamboo Charters.
Mark JohnsonNew Hampshire, US•Member since 20255.0VerifiedPersonable, professional and awesome
Private Snorkel Charter (3hr / PM) • 2 adultsHighly recommend
Response from Captainthanks for coming out with Mark. Alligator Reef Lighthouse is always a crowd pleaser. Come on back anytime and let me show you some other great reefs down here Thank you, Capt. Matt Bellinger