Question 1

What is the "Snorkel and Dive Tour Misrepresentation" scam in Key West?

Accepted Answer

Charter boat operators advertise snorkel tours with promises of vibrant reef activity, small groups, and specific reef locations. The actual tour visits a degraded or distant site, boats are overcrowded, and equipment is substandard. Cancellation policies are buried or nonexistent. Book only with operators certified by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary or with verifiable TripAdvisor/Google reviews from the past six months. Ask explicitly about boat capacity, exact reef site, and refund policy before paying.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Tourist Information Booth Upsell" scam in Key West?

Accepted Answer

Booths styled to look like official Key West visitor centers operate near the Historic Seaport and along North Roosevelt Boulevard, staffed by people in polo shirts who offer "free" maps and recommendations. Their sole purpose is to sell overpriced, high-commission tour packages — sunset cruises, snorkel trips, and bus tours — at 20–40% above what the same operator charges directly. Staff are trained to create urgency by claiming tours are nearly sold out. Use only the official Florida Keys Visitor Center at 1201 White Street or the Key West Chamber of Commerce on Mallory Square for free, unbiased recommendations. Book tours directly through the operator's website or at their dock-side ticket window. Ignore "limited availability" pressure from booth staff.

Tour & Activity Scams in Key West

Snorkel and Dive Tour Misrepresentation

Fake Tourist Information Booth Upsell

Experienced a scam here?