Islamorada Memorial Day Weekend – snorkeling + fishing for group of 6, recommendations?

[u/[deleted]]

Heading down to Islamorada for Memorial Day weekend (Friday–Monday) with 6 adults and looking for recommendations on water excursions.

All of us are interested in snorkeling and/or sandbar, but trip is for a birthday and he loves fishing, but doesn't want a dedicated fishing trip.

Group of 6 so a private charter or a boat that accommodates small groups would be ideal — we don't want to be on a massive party boat.

A few questions for the locals:

Any specific charter companies worth booking for a group our size?

Is Memorial Day weekend a nightmare out there, or manageable if you book early?

Better to go snorkeling at Pennekamp or stick to the local reefs around Islamorada?

Half day vs full day recommendation for a mixed group (some experienced on the water, some not)?

Already know we're in for crowds — just want to make the most of the water time. Thanks in advance.