re: Cruise out of NOLA?

I have to say by far the best experience was with Little French Key. This guy basically owned a private island with animals and decided to start letting people come. As it got more popular he added bars and grills. It's the most beautiful water I have seen. You literally put on snorkel gear and you are on a reef. The shelf itself is only thirty feet off. They give you kayaks and paddle boards to use and snorkel gear.
My fiance and the girls swam with the Jaguar, which was an extra $35 but they loved it.
It is $55 for transportation to the pier and then to the island by boat. That includes access to grounds, but all food and drinks are a la carte.
For $88 you get the ride, access and a meal and two drinks (any kind including specialty) and use of kayaks, paddle boards, snorkel gear. For $98 you add on a boat trip to a reef to snorkel.
An extra $25 adds on riding the horses in the water, and $35 adds on swimming with the Jaguar. (really just a photo op)

Heavily recommend this place. They only allow a set number.

These are pics I took last Thursday. I'm looking into going back out there, they have houses for rent for $105 a day on the water.





One of two wrecked ships in the port (not near the key)


LINK


In Cozumel it's a mixed bag for me. There is a lot to do. If you want a nice relaxing day at the Beach, I like Nachi Cochum, they only let 100 people in a day. All food and drinks included. It's $50 adults and $30 for kids.
(you have to get there - $17 cab ride each way)
For a similar (right next door) beach, but a wilder time, there is Mr. Sancho's.

I personally like to rent a Jepp and drive around the island. This last time we did Nachi Cochum and I enjoyed it, was like being in a Corona commercial.
They also have Mayan ruins there that are neat to see, and some decent shopping.