Have you always wanted to explore the ocean? John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is one of the best places in Florida to see our living reef and all kinds of marine life. Even if you can’t or don’t want to get in the water, it’s still possible to explore this magical world with a glass-bottom boat tour.

Welcome to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Located near Key Largo, it became the nation’s first underwater park in 1963.

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Key Largo is called the Diving Capital Of The World, and this is a very popular park for snorkeling, scuba diving, and all kinds of water activities.

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Scuba diving is a great way to see marine life up close, but thanks to the park’s famous glass-bottom boat tours, you don’t have to dive to experience the beauty of this park.

Flickr/Scania Group

The tours leave three times a day, and last about two and a half hours. The scenery is breathtaking, with nothing but blue as far as the eye can see.

Flickr/Patricia Nagele

Once the Spirit of Pennekamp reaches the reef, visitors get a window into this fascinating underwater world. Passengers can get a view of coral formations, shipwrecks, and all kinds of marine life.

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This is the perfect way to experience one of Florida’s most impressive natural wonders, without getting wet.

Flickr/Adam Simmons

We should note that some folks do have trouble with getting seasick on the tours, so if you’re prone to motion sickness it’s a good idea to take some Dramamine before your tour. As long as you’re prepared, you should have a great experience.

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Flickr/Scania Group

Flickr/Patricia Nagele

Flickr/Adam Simmons

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is located at 102601 Overseas Highway (MM 102.5), Key Largo, FL 3303. Call (305) 451-6300 to reserve your spot on the Spirit of Pennekamp.

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