catamaran trips florida keys

Fares, Fees & Schedule
Going to Key West
Going to Fort Myers Beach
Going to Marco Island
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The Key West Express Catamaran

Length: 170 ft. | Beam: 38 ft. | Cruising Speed: 34 knots | Draft: 5.5 ft.

Key West Express Catamaran

The 170 foot Key West Express Catamaran is our flagship vessel that is based out of the Ft. Myers Beach port of call. Built by Gulf Craft of Patterson, Louisiana , this jet drive-powered boat cuts through the Gulf waters at an average cruising speed of 34 knots. It has 3 decks of comfortable indoor and outdoor seating and is crewed by a highly skilled crew that is ready to take care of your every need.

Make sure to book your trip early and enjoy these on board amenities:

Air-Conditioned Interiors
Two Exterior Sun Decks, with seating
Interior Couches, Table-Top and Reclining Airline-Style Seating or Outside Seating, to enjoy the fantastic views
Full Service Galley and Bar
Flat screen TVs with Satellite Television
State-of-the-Art Electronics and Navigation Equipment
All Aluminum Body Construction
Turbo Diesel Engines with Jet Propulsion
Expert Crews with Years of Experience and Knowledge
Complete Coast Guard Certification

Click on any photo at right to see more.

Prepare, Plan & Go!

Places To Go

Shopping, museums, tours, water activities

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Places To Stay

Resorts, B&Bs, Waterfront

Places To Eat

Famous Bars, Fresh Seafood, Waterfront

Gift Certificate
Pay Balance

100 Grinnell Street Key West, FL 33040

239-463-5733

Fort Myers Beach

1200 Main Street Ft. Myers Beach, Florida 33931

Marco Island

951 Bald Eagle Drive Marco Island, FL 34145

What Should I Bring?

Directions to Echo, Cruise Ship & K.W. Passenger Info

Key West Info

Cancellation Policies, Terms and Conditions
Catamaran Echo Videos
ECHO Upgrades
Tasting Notes
Sunset Cruise

$10 Off each person – Promo Code “EchoDirect”

(for Public trips only – sold by the seat)

Catamaran ECHO 2

Catamaran echo 3.

Free Echo 3 shuttle from downtown Key West, A&B Lobster House parking lot.

Catamaran ECHO

…is a fast and comfortable sailing machine, providing the most stable ride on the water. naturally it’s a catamaran.

And with our big bimini top, you can get all the Key West sun or shade that you want. The fresh water shower on deck comes in handy on those hot days. A private bathroom in the cabin makes a day in the wildlife refuge civilized and helps protect our tropical waters.

ECHO is located at the “Key West Historic Seaport” which is downtown in Old Key West at the famous Key West Bight. The Historic Seaport “Harbor Walk” goes right around the water’s edge and leads right to ECHO‘s dock along side the famous “Turtle Kraals Restaurant and Tower Bar”. Spend the day on the Harbor Walk before and after your ECHO trip and visit all the great shops, restaurants and bars and galleries. This is where all the locals hang out!

So come and hang out in the coolest part of town and cruise with us at Catamaran ECHO .

ECHO'S Official Website

Wild Dolphin

Snorkeling & Sailing Adventure

Click here to read more!

Private Day Charters

2 to 19 Passengers

Sunset Cruise - Adults Only

Private Trips Available (all ages welcome)

Towel (day trips), Sun screen applied (no oil), Hat, Camera, Sunglasses (polarized best), a jacket in fall, winter, spring (even if you think it’s warm out), a small bag to secure your things, a few bucks and a Big Smile!

Echo Upgrades

Please reserve upgrades in advance while reserving here online, or by phone or email before the trip.

Directions, Cruise Ship & K.W. Ferry Passenger Info

Certificate of Excellence 2019

Read Reviews

Call for Reservations

1-888-579-4782.

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Our Activities

Private 4th of July Champagne Sunset and Fireworks Party Cruise - 2 Hours

Catamaran Echo - Wild Dolphins! Snorkel & Sailing Adventure

Catamaran Echo - Private Lighted Boat Parade Champagne Party

Catamaran Echo - Sunset & Moët Cruise

Catamaran Echo - Private Day Charters

Catamaran Echo - Private 2 Hour Champagne Celebration Sunset Sail

Chesapeake Bay Itineraries
Key West Itineraries
Chesapeake Bay
Virgin Islands
St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Browse our Fleet
Meet Your Captains
Charter Management
Sailing Lessons

Key West Sailing Charters

Experience the beauty and wonder of an unspoiled tropical paradise without ever leaving the Continental United States. Our Key West sailing charter destination is located minutes from all the downtown Key West attractions and Duval Street night life, yet a short sail away from pristine reefs, underwater nature preserves, and uninhabited island locations such as the stunning and secluded Marquesas. Kayak, paddle board, and snorkeling excursions will open to you the offshore beauty offered only in the Florida Keys. Our native Floridian staff knows how to find the best activities on land or at sea, to guide you as you plan a unique and customized getaway.

Our Key West Sailing Charter Fleet

Sailing cats.

Southern Cross

Fountain Pajot Elba 45

Dream Reach

Sugar Magnolia

Seawind 1260

Second sight.

Stay Glassy

Nautitech 40 open.

Ever Summer

Fountaine pajot my44, key west attractions.

Historic Duval Street

One of the most popular destinations on the island of Key West is Duval Street. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum where you can take in some history about the writer and meet a legendary six toed cat. If you feel like taking in some nature, visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory where there are 50 - 60 different species of live butterflies from around the world. On Duval Street, you can simply take a stroll and hear live music, see art galleries, enjoy coffee shops and great restaurants, or find unique souvenirs at one of the many boutiques.

Romantic Sunsets

Beautiful sunsets are what Key West is all about. Enjoy the soothing ocean breeze, a glass of wine, and relax to the backdrop of the setting sun on your own private catamaran cruise. Watching the sunset has become an integral part of everyday life in paradise. This is one tradition you don’t want to miss!

Crystal Clear Snorkeling

Key West offers many beaches and reefs where you can experience snorkeling in warm crystal-clear water. At Cottrell Key, see the unique sponge garden and large coral reefs. It is also an excellent place to see dolphins, sharks, stingrays, and Goliath groupers. Fort Zachary Taylor is considered one of the best offshore snorkeling spots in Key West where there are a variety of tropical fish species and living coral to see. A favorite among snorkeling enthusiasts is Sand Key Lighthouse Reef. With a remote location and strict no-take policy, the Sand Key Lighthouse Reef is one of the healthiest coral gardens in Florida.

Pristine Sandy Beaches

Craving a drink in your hand and your toes in the sand? Check out the turquoise waters at Smathers Beach. Rental shops are available with beach chairs, shade umbrellas, kayaks, jet skis and much more. Try South Beach for calm, shallow waters that are excellent for swimming and great for families. Higgs Beach is unique for its historical significance. Take a wander around, and you'll find monuments dedicated to the 19th-century slave cemetery located on the site. There is also a pier at Higgs Beach, where visitors can often spot stingrays and other marine species.

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Trip duration, multiple days (less than 1 week), weekly trip show boats that have weekly prices. most weekly boats outside of the us are available only saturday to saturday., boat length: 5ft -, manufacturer, boat build year: -, weekly trip, price: $ - $, catamaran charters in key west, florida.

Enjoy an Adventure in the Florida Keys on this Catamaran

Key West, FL

boating guide

In addition to the best offers we have for boat and yacht charters in Key West, FL, see also options available for rent in these nearby locations:

25 boat rentals in Key West, FL
25 boat rentals in Stock Island, FL
25 boat rentals in Key Haven, FL
25 boat rentals in Cudjoe Key, FL
25 boat rentals in Summerland Key, FL
25 boat rentals in Little Torch Key, FL
25 boat rentals in Big Pine Key, FL
10 boat rentals in Marathon, FL
10 boat rentals in Key Colony Beach, FL
10 boat rentals in Duck Key, FL

Catamaran Charters in Key West, FL | Sailo Boat Rental

Looking for a catamaran charter in Key West? Boat rental in Key West, Florida is always a great way to enjoy sailing trip experience in Florida. Choose your perfect catamaran charter with Sailo and set a course for adventure! When you rent a boat in Key West, you can choose your own itinerary and explore at your leisure. Want to relax on deck? Prefer to do some fishing? Or maybe you just want to escape the crowds? Find your ideal yacht rental in Key West with Sailo.

Our finest collection of catamaran charters in Key West, FL

Key West, FL is a well-known boating destination in the US, perfect for a memorable experience on a Sailo boat. The catamaran rentals are popular for both locals and tourists and a great choice if you want to spend some quality time with your family or friends. 7 charters are currently available with or without captain, lined up in the Key West’s marinas, waiting for their guests. Rent a private catamaran in Key West with Sailo: it’s easy, quick, secured and the best choice for a fun experience in the waters of Florida.

How to find the ideal catamaran charter in Key West, Florida?

Sailo has the most advanced filters to help you find the perfect boat rental for an amazing experience on the water in Key West, FL. Start your search by choosing your start trip date, duration and number of guests. For a great day trip with your family or friends, you have the option to select 2, 4 hours or full day rentals. Depending on your preferences and budget, you may narrow your results by boat type and price range. The 'crew' filter allows you to check the boat rentals with the captain included in the price, skipper optional (paid as extra) or bareboats that you’ll captain yourself (boating resume required). Once you have laid your eyes on a boat you like in Florida, click on it to read the description, reviews and see more pics. We also recommend using our direct 'Message Owner' feature that allows you to start a conversation with the boat representative to ask away everything you want to know before you submit a booking request.

How much does it cost to charter a catamaran in Key West for a day?

Whether you are looking to rent a catamaran yacht in Key West for a city sightseeing tour, a romantic sunset cruise or an active day on the water with your family or friends, we're confident you’ll find the best one for you on Sailo. The average starting price to charter a yacht in Key West is $1100. You can however find excellent affordable rentals from $250 and also elegant yacht charters that can go up to $6500 (service fee and mandatory extras not included).

Can I pay in installments for my Sailo catamaran rental in Key West?

A lot of our boat owners allow payment in installments, particularly for the weekly charters. First installment is always charged at the time the booking is confirmed. To find out if a boat has an installment plan, reach out to the boat representative and ask details via 'Message Owner' before you submit the booking or check out the Payment Schedule at top of the booking page.

Guidelines to responsible yachting

If you’re looking to explore our beautiful planet, a yacht charter is a great place to start. Explore coral reefs with your snorkel, discover hidden bays and islands and generally enjoy the view of nature. Remember, that sailing motto: 'Take only photos, leave only wake' (OK, so we paraphrased). To be a responsible sailor, remember:

Don’t disturb coral or sealife
Take your trash home (and don’t throw anything in the sea)
Respect the locals and their customs wherever you go

Catamaran Cruises in Key West, FL

Escape the downtown crowd - cruise with billy.

Key West’s nautical history is all based on its proximity to the world’s 3rd largest living coral reef. From pirates and privateers to ship wreckers and fisherman the draw has always been the sanctuary provided by the Florida Great Barrier Reef. Key West’s coral rock islands trace a contiguous pathway from the Atlantic Ocean & Gulf of Mexico intersect all the way to mainland Florida. To this day our primary industry, tourism, celebrates our unique natural ecosystem in the shadow of the reef.

Whether you want to cruise a couple of hours, island-hop all day, or see our beautiful wildlife, Billy has you covered! Bring your reef-safe sunscreen, and we’ll take care of the rest!

Ticketed Tours

Kid Friendly!
Users All ages
Info Up to 36 people
Clock 3.5 hours

Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Tour

Search for wild dolphins in their natural habitat and snorkel Key West’s backcountry waters off the Seabreeze!

Most Popular Cruise
Info Up To 38 People
Clock 2 hours

Key West Sunset Harbor Cruise

Take in a breathtaking Key West sunset on this harbor cruise that sails past the southernmost point of the U.S. and cruises by a Civil War Fort.

Private Experiences

Our Newest Boat
Info 1-6 People
Clock 2 to 8 hours

Barefoot Private Charters

Create the perfect outing for up to 6 with a custom charter! Cast off from the island and explore the unique nature surrounding the Florida Keys!

Info 1 to 40 people
Clock 3 Hours

Morning Island Charter

Spend your morning at the sandbar and experience the turquoise waters surrounding Key West at a slower pace on this private charter.

Clock Varies

Seabreeze Charters

Snorkel, see Dolphin, or visit a sandbar with an open-air cruise for up to 40 people. Create the perfect escape with a private adventure aboard our 45-foot Corinthian catamaran!

SERENITY NOW

Private Charters Key West Florida

Private crewed sailing packages.

Set sail on your own private catamaran and explore the only living coral reef in the continental United States. Sail the pristine turquoise waters of the Florida Keys and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on a secluded beach. As a private charter you, and up to 5 of your guests, have the option to customize your adventure.

Full Day Sail Adventure Lunch and Optional Snorkeling

Starting at $1200

Half Day Sailing Adventure with

Optional lunch and snorkeling.

Starting at $600

Sunset Sailing Adventure with Appetizer and optional Snorkeling

Sailing catamaran "serenity now".

Up to 6 Passangers max

S/V "Serenity Now" is a Fountaine Pajot Lipari 41. She has a large comfortable trampoline on her bow and a spacious covered cockpit on her stern. Inside you will find a settee with seating for six along with four cabins and two large heads.

About Your Crew

Captain Tom and his wife Denise have been sailing for over two decades. Over the course of the last three years they have sailed over 4,000 nm along the east coast of US and the Caribbean Sea. Tom holds a USCG OUPV Captain's License. Prior to their most recent adventure, Tom was a Research Physicist and his wife a Public Relations Manager. Bow and Harry our French Hounds server at the pleasure of our guest or vacation at a nearby pet resort during charters.

6810 Font Street

Key West FL 33040

[email protected]

410-849-9199

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Sailing Catamaran "Sirius"

Ocean Sailing Inc.

Experience the exciting world of sailing with fresh breezes and delightful sunsets on the tropical waters of the Florida Keys aboard the 24 passenger 36ft sailing catamaran

Sunset Cruise

Approximately two hours, $40. per person plus tax

Times vary with season

Departing Safe Harbor Marathon Marina and Lazy Days Restaurant South

11th Street Ocean Marathon, FL.

For information and reservations call today (305) 304-2982

Discover and enjoy the luxury of personalized attention as you and the entire family experience a safe and relaxing sail aboard the sailing catamaran "Sirius"

Ask about custom private charters and specialty sails for any occasion.

and the party continues...

Mate Mallory

Mate kaitlin and raava.

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Sail the Florida Keys

Location Guide

Get Away to Key West and Explore the Florida Keys by Sailboat

Did you know there's an international airport perched out in the Gulf of Mexico at Key West? Serviced by all major US airlines and with frequent flights from main airports in the East and South, Key West is so easy to get to. That's where you'll find our boat charter operators, who have a range of sail and motor boats for you to explore this unique corner of the USA.

Along the Florida Keys the holidaymaking options are numerous. Enjoy the aquatic environment with countless opportunities to snorkel, swim, kayak, paddleboard and more, while totally relaxing on board, or ashore on one of the Keys' beautiful beaches. Enjoy an evening meal in one of the upmarket restaurants that dot the Keys, shop and enjoy the nightlife in the major centers of population, and get close to nature at one of several locations designated State Parks.

While pandemic concerns are limiting travel options, consider Key West as your next boat charter vacation destination. Local ordinances reflect the need to keep everyone protected and make this a safe destination. The communities are welcoming and open for business.

Some of the highlights to experience on a Florida Keys Sailing Charter Vacation

Your Florida Keys adventure likely begins and ends at Key West, which is closer to Cuba than Miami yet connected to the US mainland by the 90-mile long Overseas Highway that's an experience in itself. Most sailing charter visitors arrive by air and take the short transfer to one of the charter bases located on the island. Famous for its coral reefs, local architecture, historic sites and nightlife, charming Key West is well worth some time before or after your charter.

Like most charterers however, you will probably be keen to go sailing and start exploring the chain of cays that make up this most southerly part of the Continental USA. Two great things about sailing here are that distances between attractions can be as short as you'd like them to be, and anchorages are plentiful, if shallow in places. A seven-day charter Key West to Key Largo and return is easily achievable.

Travelling out of the Stock island marina, it's less than 30 nautical miles to Baihia Honda Key, a popular stopover. In the vicinity there's a variety of stunning beaches, some say the best in the world. Looe Key has some of the best snorkelling you'll experience on your vacation.

A similar distance to that travelled above will take you from Bahia Honda Key to Long Key, via Marathon, a major sport fishing town of 10,000 people surrounded by the bountiful sea. Stop a while and enjoy a seafood lunch, or you may prefer to do Marathon on the return. At Long Key enjoy the natural surroundings, the greenery and the birdlife.

Perhaps after two days of sailing that have taken you from Key West more than half way to the mainland, you're ready to take it a bit easier. Less than ten nautical miles onward you'll come to Indian Key Historic State Park at Islamorada. Nearby is the San Pedro Underwater Archeological Preserve, another one of the numerous state parks along the Keys. The San Pedro was a Dutch ship sunk during a hurricane in 1733. What remains lies in 18 feet of water 1.25nm south of Indian Key, easily accessible to good swimmers.

From Indian Key, it's a further 20nm sailing distance to Key Largo. Apart from the shops, bars and restaurants, most of the attractions are aquatic-based as they are all along the Keys. A visit to the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center can be rewarding, a reminder of the fragility of nature in this delicate place.

If you enjoy walking while on vacation, the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail is accessible to many points along your sailing route.

Browse our yachts for charter in Florida Keys

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One contact - every option - advice you can trust.

Matching any competitive offer
Sourcing boats with discounts available
Personalising our proposal just for you
Qualifying the operator as well as the boat
Advising without bias based on 25+ years of experience
We do more than just book yachts!

We will match any discount website offer on charter boat price, and still provide our customary high level of service.

The Essential Guide to Sailing Holiday Charters

The Sail Connections Essential Guide to Bareboat and Crewed Sailing Holiday Charters is jam-packed full of useful tips for getting the most out of your next boat charter. And it is FREE to download.

Enquire about a charter...

For a personal proposal structured to meet your needs, with advice on all aspects of your sailing charter.

Bridging the space between reality & paradise.

A luxury sailing catamaran charter with an emphasis on fun and adventure.

Sailing from Ft. Lauderdale, The Keys & The Bahamas.

Come sail with us!

Meet The Crew

Captain - Scott Clark

He is most at home when on the water. He enjoys tinkering with everything, but has a flair for all things electrical. He loves sharing stories, creating videos and spending time with his wife and 2 sons.

First Mate - Holly Clark

She is most at home when she is spending time with friends and family. She enjoys cooking, meeting new people, yoga and snuggling with her granddog, Pugsly.

Check Out Our Latest Video!

The Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Key West Sailing Vacation

Fort Lauderdale Boat Charter Tours Made Easy, Fun & Affordable

Family Vacations are Incomplete without a Catamaran in the Bahamas

Boat Charter Rules That You Must Be Aware of!

A Day in the Life of a Charter Cat Owner

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Tel. SAIL-TSB-DMB

(724) 587-2362, p.o. box 7696, sebring, fl 33872, [email protected].

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Islamorada Catamaran Tour

Quick Details

Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
User Ages: Must be 5+ to ride
Users Passengers: Maximum 2 passengers per boat
Ticket Adult Price: $155 per person (Ages 13+)
Ticket Child Price: $130 per person (Ages 5-12)

Clock Tour Time: YOU MUST SHOW UP 45 MINUTES BEFORE SHEDULED TOUR TIME

Star Outline Cancellations: Read our cancellation policy carefully. There is a $50.00 dollar minimum Cancelation Fee assessed to all cancelled bookings, regardless of whether or not you cancel 72 hours prior to your scheduled booking/tour time. Again, a minimum $50.00 Cancelation Fee will be assessed to all cancellations. No Cancellations by Email – Phone call only. No Exceptions.

Guided boat tours offered daily! Adventure awaits you.

After a brief on how to operate your own boat, this adventure takes you around the beautiful waterways of Islamorada. Beautiful mangroves, sea birds, dolphin, manatee and other sea life may be seen during the trip.

This adventure will capture the hearts and minds of young and old alike. Perfect for couples, groups, and families with children 5 years old and up.

You drive your own 2 seat catamaran with your passenger on an amazing 2 hour guided tour (guide is on his own boat). Get up close with dolphin and other sea life. See the beautiful clear water and drive full speed (up to 30 mph) on our exciting boats.

What to Wear

Beach attire with water shoes, sandals or flip flops is appropriate. Light jacket is optional when the weather is below 75 degrees. Although you shouldn’t get soaked, a towel is recommended due to minor splashing.

Important Information

You must be 18 or older and hold a valid driver’s license to operate the catamaran.
You must arrive 45 minutes before your scheduled tour; this gives us ample time to brief you.
Each boat has a maximum weight limit of 500 lbs.
A 15% gratuity is customary, but only if your trip was exceptional.
There is a small dry storage area on each boat for cell phones, cameras, keys, wallets, and small purses. No large beach bags or backpacks, please.

Florida Keys Sailing

The Spanish first found the Keys during Ponce de Leon's expedition in 1513. They mapped and named the Keys principally as an aid to their ships, which, full of gold and silver, used the Florida Straits to go from the New World back to the Old. The first settlement was at Key West, in 1882, a little more than two decades before Florida became a state. The other Keys pretty much stayed deserted until 1874, when the government surveyed them. After the survey, the government plotted land for businesses and homes. The early homes were primitive. They were built from the local beaches, made of wood and other materials washed up from shipwrecks. In 1912 Henry Flagler built a railroad to Key West. This greatly increased human settlement of the Keys. The railroad was destroyed by a hurricane in 1935, but in 1938 the longest over-water road in the world was built on the railroad's foundation. It includes 42 bridges--one that is seven miles long! This opened the Florida Keys up to a growing tourist trade.

Captain Charter

Sit back and relax on your own private yacht while a professional takes the helm to show you the best of the Florida Keys. We offer multi-night yacht charter vacations. All of our Captain Charters have a minimum of 5 days/4nights which is the ideal amount of time to experience one of our Florida Keys sailing itineraries . Learn more about what to expect aboard a Captain Charter with Florida Yachts Charters.

Captain Selection

Captains, cooks & mates, life aboard, family friendly & kids aboard.

We are required under USCG regulations that define bareboat charter to allow you to choose your own captain. We will not assign one for you. We can provide more information of those captains who are familiar with our operations, the waters of the Florida Keys and our vessels. Should you already have a captain we require they complete our captain’s application for approval.

Captains, Cooks & Mates, Oh My!

Unless you are on a sailing course, when you interview potential captains to hire for your charter, they will ask you about prior boating experience and your ability in assisting with things like, picking up moorings balls, anchoring, dock lines and ability to manage the vessel in an emergency situation . If no one aboard would qualify to fulfill the role of 1st mate they will require you also hire a mate. Some mates can act as cook for an additional rate while others are only able to act as a mate. Adding a cook means they take care of all the meal planning, provisioning, cooking and clean up, a splendid addition to your experience. If you are unfamiliar with provisioning and cooking aboard a vessel this is a highly recommended choice.

Captains generally charge $450-500 a day, first mates $250 & Cooks $275.00, plus their food & beverages. For Cooks, they charge a full day for planning & provisioning time before your charter start. A 15 – 20% gratuity is industry standard for services well rendered.

Life Aboard a Captain Charter in the Florida Keys

Life aboard a yacht in the Florida Keys can take you to some beautiful anchorages, snorkel sights and secluded beaches. Your yacht will have all the comforts of a boutique hotel. The galley has just about everything your kitchen at home has so cooking aboard will be seamless. Refrigeration aboard vessels is much smaller than at home, and monohulls have very tiny freezer space. While all our vessels are equipped with Generators and ACs for comfort at anchor, while underway you will not be able to run the Generator, therefore you will not have AC until you reach a mooring ball or anchorage for the night. Most guests open the hatches while underway for a nice tropical breeze. As a result of Covid, we have taken the decision to not supply masks & snorkels for safety reasons over sanitation. We do sell good qualify snorkel/masks set and rent fins. We have local companies that can rent paddleboards & kayaks.

Families & Kids Aboard your Captain Charter

Key West & the Florida Keys is a great family friendly boating destination. The captains in this area know all the best places for spotting dolphins, snorkeling and a relaxing night at anchor. For safety reasons there are few things to note about having kids aboard when considering a captain charter with children:

Bring along or plan to buy children’s life jackets. They are weight specific up to a certain age and we don’t offer them. Children are required to wear a life vest at all times while on deck, if your children have never worn a life jacket we recommend purchasing ahead of time and practice wearing, otherwise they will be stuck below deck with an adult.
Our captains are professional and great with kids but it is important that a parent, guardian or designated adult keep an eye on them at all times. Your captain and mate will be very busy attending to navigation, sailing, and everyone’s overall safety and should not be relied upon to be watching children should you be absent. There are many things for kids to bump their heads on, interesting buttons to push and lines to grab. An interesting tip we recently read to ensure authority has been passed from one parent/guardian to the next is to use the phrase “Your Jane and John” and make sure the other adult responds “My Jane and John;” inserting your kids names into this phrase of course. This way you know that they know you are no longer watching the kids. If you are a pilot you may be familiar with this tip, as it was modified by parents who were former pilots for around the water safety at home.
It may also be a good idea to talk with your kids (depending on the age) about power, water and toilet management. You will potentially be away from the dock for several days at a time. All our vessels are equipped with Generators and AC’s but these items are additional amenities and should there be a mechanical failure you may not have access to additional power and AC until it can be repaired. Depending on your itinerary you may also be without WiFi or cell phone access from time to time.

6651 Maloney Ave, Unit 1 Key West, FL 33040

[email protected] 800-650-6940

KEEP IN TOUCH

Destination and charter fleet updates, special offers, and more

RATES

Florida keys august - october , 7 night sailing charter - all inclusive .

Aerial View Turquoise Sea Bahamas Sailing Catamaran Charters

7 Nights - All inclusive charter from the Florida Keys.

Treat yourself to an all inclusive sailing charter with a Chef that will prepare every single meal, leaving you with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery or play in the water with the paddle boards or snorkel the splendid reefs around or go deep-sea fishing all the while your captain takes you cruising to different amazing anchorages. All prepared meals, snacks, soft drinks and alcohol included. Contact us for details.

Does not include gratuity. 7% tax extra.

Payment TERMS AND POLICIES

What's not included in the rates.

- Included: all prepared meals and snacks, soft and alcoholic drinks, linens and towels, stand-up paddle boards, snorkel gear, fishing gear and a new 12 ft. inflatable dinghy with 25 HP outboard. - A 50% deposit payable to David Calvert will confirm your charter dates. - Full balance due 30 days before the trip starts. - No refunds for cancellation within 30 days unless we can rebook your dates on another charter. - Trip Insurance is highly recommended. - 7 % Port Authority Tax. - Customary 15%-20% gratuity (the industry standard). - Off-vessel charges such as airfare, taxi fares, on-shore meals & beverages. - Bottled waters are not included in the rates. We have charcoal filtered Reverse Osmosis water of high quality. We support eco-friendly “green" and plastic-free options by avoiding use of single-use plastic bottles wherever possible.

Bluewater Adventure The Keys

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Bluewater Adventure The Keys - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Top 7 Best Florida Keys Sailing Tips

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Sailing is a great way to increase your alertness and has many emotional and physical health benefits . Whether you’re new to sailing or are a seasoned sailor, I have gathered some awesome information you need to sail the Florida Keys.

Table of Contents

1. The Off-Peak Season Can Save Lots of Money

From chartering a boat to finding places to eat, everything is more expensive during peak season. While this isn’t surprising as it follows the basic law of supply and demand, it can certainly work in your favor. Knowing the best time to sail the Florida Keys will ensure you get the best deals everywhere you go.

The off-peak season for the Florida Keys is from March through November. During this time, you can expect to see many deals on places to stay, boats to charter, and fun things you want to do on the trip.

If you plan to stay in hotels around the Keys, taking the trip during the off-season will save you a lot of money. Budgeting is an important part of any trip, and saving enough money can mean more trips in the future. So, make sure you consider sailing during the off-peak season.

2. Charter a Boat To Reach More Destinations

While sailing the Florida Keys, you may consider stopping along the way to stay at hotels. This is a valid choice, but it can really slow you down. If you want to see as much of the Florida Keys as possible, consider chartering a boat.

This way, you can have everything you need right there. You can get a boat that comes with lodging, a kitchen, a crew, and even a chef to cook for your group. Without worrying about where to eat and sleep, you can spend a lot more time deciding on the cool places to visit instead.

While crew members and larger charter boats aren’t cheap, always compare the cost to staying at hotels throughout the Florida Keys. You may save some money by chartering your own boat rather than paying for places to stay. You can also save money by making your own food on the boat rather than consistently eating out.

Chartering a boat during your visit gives you much more control over all the aspects of your trip.

3. The Florida Loop Route

One of the most important tips for sailing is to always know where you’re going. This will prevent you from getting lost or running into trouble.

Sailing is a fun and relaxing activity, but it can be dangerous if you don’t know where you are or where you’re going at all times.

If you’re planning on sailing the Florida Loop , it’s especially crucial to keep your bearings. This route ( also known as Smuggler’s Run ) travels from the St. Lucie canal, south past Miami, and then loops around Key West.

From that point, it makes a northward turn, toward Cape Coral and the mouth of the Caloosahatchee River. It then follows the river into the Caloosahatchee Canal and through to Florida’s east coast via the Mayaka Cut.

That said, most folks follow this route in a counter-clockwise direction , as the Gulf Stream current pushing against the bottom portion of Florida (and the Florida Keys) moves eastward. Fighting against this current by starting your journey near the Mayak Cut (instead of traveling south out the Caloosahatchee River) can be challenging.

If you’re not prepared to tackle the Florida Loop, either with navigation tools or an experienced guide, you can quickly end up drifting out to sea while attempting to make your way south to Key West. For that reason, it’s crucial to always stay aware of your current location, vessel direction, and sailing speed.

4. Make Sure You Have Plenty of Provisions

An important part of sailing, no matter where you’re going, is to have plenty of supplies and provisions to ensure your safety and well-being during the trip.

A good rule of thumb for sailing is to bring 1.5 to 2 times the amount of provisions that you’ll need for the trip to be safe . Whatever the amount you choose, it’s best to at least bring enough food for a few extra days.

Weather can be unpredictable, and storms can throw your boat off course. There may also need to be times when you could be moving, but you aren’t. When sailing, there are plenty of things that can keep you off schedule.

That said, don’t worry that you won’t be able to find stops along the way to restock on provisions. The Oceanside Marina in Key West, for example, is a top-notch place to stop and grab some snacks and extra gallons of water . In fact, this marina is part of the brilliantly named Stock Island.

While you might not find many provisions at the marina, Lacurva Groceries is only about a five-minute car ride away. If you’d rather opt out of rideshare services, you can walk there in about 20 minutes!

Additionally, the Tavernier Creek Marina (in Plantation Key) is only about a mile away from the nearest Winn-Dixie grocery store. So, if you find yourself further up along the Florida Keys in need of snacks or drinks, you can always make a quick stop here and stock up on goodies

5. Keep An Eye Out for Debris

Another important rule for sailing is to ensure that you watch out for debris. You can find debris on the water from just about anything, but it’s especially common after a hurricane.

Hurricanes tend to cause a lot of debris from boats, trees, and even homes to be a nuisance when traveling on the water.

Additionally, the Florida Keys are home to some of the state’s oldest fisheries and fishing ports. As such, decades’ worth of washed-away fishing gear may be floating around near the shorelines, potentially causing problems for you and your vessel.

Debris may seem like it’s not a big deal, but it can be dangerous when sailing. Your propellers can get entangled in fishing net and become hard to get free of. Hard debris can also damage the hull, props, or rudders costing you a lot of money or even impairing the boat enough to make it unsafe. For that reason, you’ll want to watch out for it and avoid it if you can.

6. Avoid Hurricane Season

We already discussed how beneficial the off-peak season could be for your bank account, but there’s another factor to consider.

In the Florida Keys, hurricane season is between June and November . You can save even more money visiting during this time, but that’s because there’s a greater risk of hurricanes.

Hurricane season slows down visitors, but it certainly doesn’t stop everyone. From destination weddings to brave sailors, the Florida Keys is never empty. But hurricanes are dangerous, especially for sailors. So, let’s talk about why it’s best to avoid hurricane season as a sailor.

There’s never a guarantee that your boat will survive the high winds and rough waters that a hurricane can bring. So, it’s best to avoid them altogether if possible. Unfortunately, they’re difficult to track accurately. So, an area that may seem safe now could be in danger if the hurricane changes course.

So, when sailing the Florida Keys, avoid hurricane season if possible. While it’s cheaper than other times of the year, it’s also a lot more dangerous. So, keep yourself, your boat, and your loved ones safe by planning your trip around this season.

7. Stop for Some Key Lime Pie

If it’s your first time visiting the Florida Keys, you’re in for a treat. While the exact origin is unknown, key lime pie is a dessert that has truly taken over the area. Offering some of the best options for dessert, the Florida Keys is the best place to get a key lime pie.

Key limes are grown only in places that never get below freezing. The tropical temperatures of the Florida Keys help grow the most flavorful key limes. So, it’s no surprise that you can find it all over the place here.

Try a few different places and see which one has your favorite recipe, or make it a tradition to try a new place every time you go. However you do it, make sure you try some while you’re in the Florida Keys. Whenever you plan your trip, make sure to stop for some fresh, flavorful key lime pie along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you still have some unanswered questions about sailing the Florida Keys, then we have just what you need. Read on as we answer some of your most common questions.

Can You Sail Around the Florida Keys?

You can sail around the Florida Keys. Sailing from Miami to Key West takes around 15 to 26 hours. This is a very popular route and offers plenty of amazing stops.

You may be a little more comfortable if you have your own boat, but you can rent or charter your own without much struggle whenever you plan to visit.

When you do sail the Florida Keys, you can do so with or without stopping. The choice is yours. If you’d like to sail all the way around, feel free. But there are plenty of interesting places to stop along the way if you want to add some more experiences to your vacation.

When Can You Sail the Florida Keys?

You can sail the Florida Keys year-round. Just be careful during hurricane season (June 1st to November 30th) as the water can quickly become a dangerous place when a hurricane approaches.

While it may seem strange to have something available to you all year round, that’s the case with sailing the Florida Keys. It may be best to avoid sailing during hurricane season, but it’s certainly not forbidden during these months. As long as a sailor feels experienced enough and knows when to sail toward safe harbor, they can sail right through hurricane season if they want to.

How Long Does It Take To Sail From Miami to Key West?

It’ll take you a little over a day to sail from Miami to Key West directly without stopping (15 to 26 hours). There are plenty of places to stop along the way. So, plan for a longer trip for anything you may want to do along the way.

This day-long trip doesn’t leave much time for sightseeing or stops for food. So, if you want to stop for longer or make some extra stops, plan for a longer trip. If you need some help planning your Miami to Key West sailing itinerary, there are plenty of resources out there to help.

For your trip to Key West from Miami, try sending me an email here . I have a list of some of the most popular destinations along the way that will allow you to see some popular sights as you make your way to Key West.

Planning trips like this one are vital because there are many spots between Miami and Key West that can be dangerous or forbidden depending on the time of day or part of the season. Keep an eye out for markers that indicate an area is off-limits, and remember to check with local areas for parts to avoid during low tide.

Final Thoughts

Sailing the Florida Keys is a popular vacation choice for people all over. Follow my tips to ensure you have a safe and fun trip, whether it’s your first time sailing or you’ve done it before.

Whatever you’re planning to do during your visit to the Florida Keys, be aware of hurricane season, good food spots, and pay attention to your surroundings at all times. Get the planning out of the way ahead of time, so you can relax and enjoy your trip.

Here are Some of My Favorite Catamaran Cruising Resources

Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful as you hopefully start your sailing adventures. Here are some resources that I use as a sailor that I hope you’ll also find helpful. These are affiliate links, so if you do decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission. But in all honesty, these are the exact things that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Sailboats: If you’re looking for the best boat to suit your needs, I would recommend a catamaran. If you’re interested, I can show you the differences between catamarans and other types of sailboats .

Books: For getting started, I really like Cruising catamarans made easy . It is actually a textbook from the American sailing association; it is used to get a cruising catamaran certification. There are some other great books, and I have compiled a list of books about cruising catamarans that you will find useful.

Communication: Being out on adventures, whether it be sailing or climbing mountains, good communications are essential to being safe. I recommend two things Google fi (incredibly simple cellular data all over the world) and Garmin inreach mini (for text and voice in remote areas without cell coverage)

Sailing courses: Online sailing courses are great for beginners starting out their sailing career; it’s an efficient way of learning the basics of navigation, throttle controls, and maritime safety. I suggest starting with two free courses from NauticEd .

To see all my most up-to-date recommendations, check out this resource that I made for you!

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

catamaran trips florida keys

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