SNORKELLING IN THE KEYS

AFTER YOU’VE carbo-loaded on key lime pie, leave the land behind for a while and explore North America’s only living coral barrier reef. Fury Water Adventures offers half-day snorkelling excursions by catamaran from Key West and they provide all the necessary equipment, so all you have to do is jump in. After dropping anchor at Sand Key, it’s a short swim to the reef, where you’ll encounter yellowtail snappers, parrotfish and other colourful tropical fish, as well as a local landmark, the 165-year-old cast-iron Sand Key Lighthouse. Sand Key is a favourite snorkelling location that usually offers calm conditions and good underwater visibility. But if you end up venturing out in the wake of one of the region’s notorious winter cold fronts, be prepared to feel a little like a sock in a washing machine. The upside to a bit of hard swimming? You’ll work up a real appetite for your next meal. furycat.com