Key West Schooner Sunset Sail with Bar & Hors d’oeuvres

Imagine watching the sun dip into the Atlantic Ocean from the deck of a beautifully restored replica of the 1851 Schooner America. This Key West Schooner Sunset Sail offers an intimate, 2-hour cruise from the Key West Bight Marina, where you’ll enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, champagne, and soda. Priced at $116.10 per person, this experience is highly recommended by 97% of more than 700 reviews, making it a favorite way to unwind after a day of exploring the island.

The tour departs in the early evening, offering ideal timing to soak in the spectacular sunset views along the coast. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxing, scenic cruise with great hospitality, although it’s worth noting that windier days can make the sailing a bit more exhilarating than tranquil. The maximum group size of 68 travelers ensures an enjoyable, less crowded atmosphere while still allowing for social interaction and personalized service.

Key Points

• Two-hour sunset cruise aboard the historic America 2.0 schooner in Key West
• Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and beverages, including beer, wine, and champagne
• Top sights like Fort Zachary, Mallory Square, and Sand Key Lighthouse viewed from the water
• Ideal for sunset viewing with the boat sailing into the horizon during the golden hour
• No hotel pickup included; meet at 202 William St at the Key West Bight Marina
• Most reviews praise the friendly crew, stunning vistas, and quality snacks

Setting Sail on a Replica of the 1851 Schooner America

The Key West Schooner Sunset Sail takes place on a replica of the 1851 Schooner America, a vessel known for its classic design and historic significance. This beautiful schooner offers an authentic sailing experience, with professional and friendly crew members leading the way. Guests can expect a smoothly operated cruise, with some reviews highlighting the crew’s approachability and expertise.

The 2-hour duration provides ample time to relax, sip drinks, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Key West’s coastline. The meeting point at 202 William St is close to public transportation, and guests are advised to arrive 20-30 minutes early for check-in. Since most travelers find the timing perfect for sunset, you’ll likely want to plan your arrival accordingly.

What Makes the Sunset Experience Special

This cruise is designed to maximize the beauty of sunset over the Atlantic. The boat sails past famous landmarks such as Fort Zachary and Sunset Pier, giving a unique perspective that can’t be matched from land. As the sun sinks, the sky transforms into a canvas of warm hues, creating an ideal backdrop for photos and memorable moments.

Guests often comment on the peaceful atmosphere onboard combined with the spectacular scenery. The complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drinks enhance the experience, providing a relaxed setting to toast the evening. On special dates like Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day, the cruise offers holiday treats and champagne toasts, adding extra festivity.

The Route and Landmark Views from the Water

As the schooner glides along the coast, it offers great waterside views of Mallory Square and Sunset Pier. The captain guides the boat past Sand Key Lighthouse, giving passengers an up-close view of one of Key West’s most iconic maritime symbols.

Sailing past Fort Zachary allows guests to see this historic fort from the water, creating a distinctive scenic backdrop. The route is carefully designed to showcase top sights while positioning the boat perfectly for the sunset spectacle. The cruise’s slow pace allows plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

The Onboard Offerings: Hors d’Oeuvres and Drinks

An essential feature of this sunset sail is the complimentary hors d’oeuvres, which are individually plated and thoughtfully served during the cruise. Many reviews highlight the delicious variety and timely service by the crew.

The beverage selection includes beer, wine, champagne, and soda, catering to diverse preferences. Guests are encouraged to bring light jackets, as it can be cooler on the water, especially during the evening.

The Crew and Captain Janet

The professional crew, led by Captain Janet in some reviews, receives high praise for their friendliness and expertise. They are known for their knowledgeable sailing skills and ability to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere onboard.

Guests often mention crew attentiveness and quick service, which contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment. During holiday cruises, the crew’s extra touches, like holiday treats and special champagne toasts, add a touch of celebration to the experience.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

This tour does not include hotel pickup, so guests need to meet at the Key West Bight Marina ahead of the scheduled departure. The activity is suitable for most travelers, with most people able to participate. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is near public transportation.

It’s recommended to arrive early and wear light layers if you’re sensitive to the cooler evening breeze. Since alcohol consumption is restricted to guests aged 21 and over, additional identification may be required.

The Experience on Windier Days

While the sailing cruise generally offers a peaceful and picturesque experience, some reviews note that windy days can make the boat heel significantly and cause the sailors to feel the spray. For first-time sailors or those seeking a calm ride, it’s advisable to check the weather forecast beforehand.

On days with challenging conditions, the sail might be more exhilarating than relaxing, with some guests experiencing a bumpy ride and getting wet. The cruise’s half-hour of sunset after the boat levels out can still be quite charming, but it’s important to set expectations accordingly.

Special Holiday Cruises and Extras

On Christmas and New Year’s, the cruise elevates its festive spirit by offering complimentary holiday treats and special champagne toasts. These seasonal extras can make the experience feel even more memorable, especially with the added opportunity to take holiday photos at the helm.

These special cruises are often in high demand, so booking well in advance — typically 19 days ahead — is recommended to secure a spot.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The Key West Schooner Sunset Sail combines historic charm, beautiful scenery, and excellent hospitality. The authentic schooner design paired with professional crew members creates an experience that balances relaxation with scenic splendor.

The complimentary snacks and drinks, coupled with near-perfect reviews, make this tour a great value for those wanting to unwind with a timeless sunset in Key West. The small group size maximizes comfort, while the informative and friendly crew ensures a memorable voyage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included with the sunset sail?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. Guests should meet at 202 William St, Key West, FL 33040, 20-30 minutes before the departure time.

What should I bring for the cruise?
Guests are advised to bring a light jacket, especially for cooler evenings, and arrive early to check in. The vessel is accessible for most travelers and service animals are allowed.

Can I participate if I am not drinking alcohol?
Yes, non-alcoholic beverages like soda are included, and alcoholic drinks are available only to guests aged 21 and over.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The cruise requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, guests will be offered a different date or full refund.

How long in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 19 days in advance. It’s recommended to reserve early, especially for holiday dates or weekends.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most guests can participate, the windy conditions on some days might make it less suitable for very young children or those uncomfortable in motion. It’s best to check the weather forecast beforehand.

This Key West Schooner Sunset Sail offers a timeless sailing adventure with a focus on beautiful vistas, friendly service, and delicious snacks. Perfect for romantic evenings, special occasions, or simply unwinding after a day exploring the island, it remains a highly recommended experience for anyone visiting Key West.