What Type of Florida Keys Yacht Charter Do You Want?
Unsure? Contact Us or See Types of Yacht Charters
Unsure? Contact Us or See Types of Yacht Charters
To many, boating in Florida is Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and the Keys, and certainly chartering a motorboat to visit here is a special way to enjoy the area. Easily navigate the upbeat intracoastal waterways and Atlantic coastlines of Fort Lauderdale and Miami with a powered yacht. Take in the Art Deco architecture of South Beach strip on Ocean Drive and visit museums, restaurants, and clubs all close by. You can also let the wind be your guide for a cruise along the Florida Keys in a sailing catamaran or monohull. Spend the afternoon snorkeling in the reef, then head in for food and be spoiled for choice.
For those who want to experience something different on a Florida yacht charter, visit the other side of the state with its quiet waters, secluded anchorages, islands, and miles of sugar-white beaches. Yacht Charter companies offer not only bareboats for charter in the area, but also courses for newcomers and those wanting to refresh their sailing skills. Fort Myers is the heart of the 200 mile cruising stretch that runs from Flamingo in the south to the metropolitan boating area of Tampa and St. Petersburg. Cruise to the resort islands of Sanibel and Captiva with their beautiful, shell-strewn beaches; go south to the silent Everglades or the 10,000 Islands; go north and then east into the heart of Florida along the Okeechobee Waterway, a winding canal lined by sawgrass and citrus groves that ends up in Stuart on the east coast.
The temperatures of Florida’s coasts and islands are regulated by the sea breeze and water. So while the summer months will be fairly warm, it is nothing like the inland parts of the state. It also coincides with the region’s wet season and hurricane season, making planning a vacation tricky for this time of year.
Late fall to spring tends to have the most pleasant weather, which points to why February is the peak of tourist season. Winter temperatures usually do not drop below the 60s, and spring water temperatures are cool enough to be refreshing.
| Temp Max (°F ) | Temp Min (°F ) | Avg. Water Temp (°F ) | Avg. Rainfall (in) | Avg. Wind Speed (kts) | |
| January | 74 | 64 | 71 | 2 | NE 10-15 |
| February | 76 | 66 | 71 | 2 | E/NE 10-15 |
| March | 78 | 68 | 73 | 2 | E/SE 10-15 |
| April | 81 | 72 | 78 | 2 | E/SE 10-15 |
| May | 85 | 76 | 81 | 4 | E/SE 10-15 |
| June | 88 | 79 | 83 | 6 | SE 5-15 |
| July | 89 | 80 | 86 | 4 | SE 5-15 |
| August | 89 | 80 | 87 | 5 | SE 5-15 |
| September | 88 | 79 | 86 | 7 | E/SE 5-15 |
| October | 85 | 76 | 83 | 5 | E/NE 10-15 |
| November | 80 | 72 | 79 | 2 | NE 10-15 |
| December | 76 | 67 | 75 | 2 | NE 15-20 |
Distance: 43nm | Duration: 4h 20m
Marathon is the heart of the Florida Keys, where turquoise waters, world-famous bridges, and a relaxed island lifestyle come together. Spend your days sailing beneath the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, unwinding on the white sands of Sombrero Beach, or dropping anchor in the protected waters of Boot Key Harbor, one of the Keys’ favorite cruising destinations. Nature lovers can kayak through the mangroves of Curry Hammock State Park, snorkel vibrant reefs, or simply soak in the endless ocean views that surround every island.
When you’re ready to step ashore, Marathon offers fresh local seafood, waterfront restaurants, charming boutiques, and a welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of the Keys. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the water or a peaceful escape beneath the palms, Marathon is a destination that invites you to slow down, explore, and savor every moment of your sailing vacation.
Distance: 61nm | Duration: 6h 10m
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the Dry Tortugas offer one of the most secluded and rewarding destinations in the Florida Keys. Snorkel the vibrant coral reefs that surround the islands, where crystal-clear waters are home to colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and abundant marine life. Step ashore on Loggerhead Key to explore its historic lighthouse or enjoy a picnic on Hospital Key, taking care to preserve this pristine environment by leaving no trace behind. As you sail past Bush Key, keep an eye out for magnificent frigatebirds, sooty terns, and other nesting seabirds that thrive within this protected sanctuary, which is closed to visitors to safeguard its fragile ecosystem. Whether you’re exploring beneath the surface or simply soaking in the remarkable scenery, the Dry Tortugas deliver an unforgettable wilderness experience unlike anywhere else in the Florida Keys.
Stationary
West of Key West, the aquatic wonderland of the Dry Tortugas National Park floats in sapphire waters where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Caribbean. Anchored by Fort Jefferson, a colossal 19th-century fortress with 2,000 brick arches and sweeping views from its ramparts, the park is a paradise for adventurers. Snorkel Garden Key’s coral reefs, teeming with parrotfish and sea turtles, or explore the South Coaling Dock Ruins, where iron pilings host darting schools of tropical fish. Paddle a kayak to Bush Key (open October–January) for a mile-long loop amid nesting seabirds, or dive Little Africa’s coral gardens and the Windjammer Wreck, a 19th-century shipwreck swarmed by barracuda. By night, camp under star-drenched skies on Garden Key, serenaded by lapping waves. Dry Tortugas is Florida’s wild frontier, blending history, marine marvels, and untamed beauty.
Distance: 61nm | Duration: 6h 10m
Key West is the southernmost point of the continental USA and is a great place for water activities. It is a place for watching dolphins and sharks, and to go snorkeling and scuba diving in a number of places and marine environments. Other activities include themed pub crawls, coral reef tours, trolley tours, fishing, parasailing, kayaking, visiting historic homes, and many more. Key West has hundreds of eateries and restaurants, including seafood, Italian, French, Mexican, Chinese, Caribbean, Japanese, and more.
Distance: 72nm | Duration: 7h 10m
Known as the Sportfishing Capital of the World, Islamorada is one of the Florida Keys’ most celebrated destinations, where turquoise waters and a laid-back island atmosphere create an unforgettable stop along your sailing itinerary. Spend the day snorkeling around the iconic Alligator Reef Lighthouse, anchor at the famous Islamorada sandbars, or paddle through calm, mangrove-lined waters. Offshore, crystal-clear reefs and abundant marine life make this a favorite destination for snorkeling, diving, fishing, and unforgettable days at sea.
Stationary
Ashore, Islamorada offers just as much to discover. Wander through the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, explore the fascinating ruins of Indian Key Historic State Park, browse local art galleries and boutiques, or stop by the renowned Florida Keys Brewing Company for a taste of the islands. As evening approaches, settle in for one of Islamorada’s unforgettable sunsets, where the sky glows with brilliant shades of gold, pink, and orange over Florida Bay. Complete the day with fresh local seafood or a slice of authentic Key lime pie while taking in the view. Blending rich history, vibrant culture, and world-class boating, Islamorada is a destination that invites you to slow down and savor the very best of the Florida Keys.
Distance: 14nm | Duration: 1h 25m
As the gateway to the Florida Keys, Key Largo is the perfect place to begin your sailing adventure. It is home to the renowned John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater state park in the United States. Snorkel or dive the iconic Christ of the Abyss statue, or explore the world-famous Molasses Reef, where tropical fish and sea turtles thrive beneath the surface.
Beyond the reef, paddle through peaceful mangrove trails, discover the beauty of nearby Florida Bay, or venture into the Everglades for an unforgettable wildlife experience. Whether you’re enjoying fresh local seafood, casting a line in world-class fishing waters, or raising a sunset toast on deck, Key Largo offers the perfect balance of adventure and island relaxation before continuing your journey through the Keys.
Distance: 41nm | Duration: 4h 10m
Key West is the southernmost point of the continental United States, where vibrant island culture meets world-class sailing. Wander through the Historic Seaport, set sail across crystal-clear waters, or experience the island’s legendary sunset from the deck of a catamaran as the sky comes alive with brilliant shades of orange and pink. Just offshore, colorful coral reefs offer exceptional snorkeling and diving, while encounters with dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical marine life make every day on the water unforgettable.
Beyond the coastline, Key West is filled with character. Explore charming streets lined with historic homes, browse local boutiques and art galleries, or discover the island by trolley, kayak, or bicycle. The culinary scene is equally impressive, with everything from fresh local seafood and waterfront cafés to award-winning restaurants serving Caribbean, French, Italian, Mexican, Japanese, and other international flavors. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or simply a spectacular sunset at sea, Key West offers an unforgettable beginning or ending to your Florida Keys sailing vacation.
If you are starting your Florida Keys yacht charter journey, depending on where you are coming from, you may be able to find direct flights to Key West International Airport, but there are plenty of connecting flights from Atlanta and Miami as well. The marina is just a 10 minute drive from the airport.
A Miami or Fort Lauderdale charter starting point will have you flying into their respective international airports, from which it will be no more than a 30 minute drive to the marina.
Tampa International Airport would be the easiest airport at which to arrive if your charter starts in St. Petersburg. A quick 25 minute drive on the highway will take you to downtown St. Petersburg, where the marina is located.
Resources:
Bareboat Charter Packing Checklist
Crewed Charter Packing Checklist
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