Key West: Schooner Day Sail with Onboard Bar

Experience the Best of Key West Sailing on the Schooner America 2.0

The Key West: Schooner Day Sail with Onboard Bar offers an inviting escape on the water, perfect for those looking to combine scenic views with a relaxed atmosphere. For $73 per person, you get 1.5 hours on a beautifully maintained schooner, the America 2.0, launched in 2011. This elegant 105-foot sailboat features teak decks, mahogany accents, and plush padded bench seating—creating a comfortable and stylish setting for your cruise.

Departing from 202 William Street, the tour showcases some of Key West’s most iconic sights. Expect to sail past Fort Zachary Taylor, Mallory Square, Sunset Pier, and Sand Key reef. The experience is ideal for those who enjoy sailing in comfort, with complimentary soft drinks and water included. For guests over 21, an upgrade for 2 alcoholic drinks elevates the experience, adding a touch of leisure to the trip.

While kids under 12 always sail free, it’s worth noting that the 1.5-hour duration keeps the experience manageable and perfect for families, couples, or groups seeking a short but memorable water adventure. This tour balances a relaxing pace with plenty of viewing opportunities, although it’s best suited for those comfortable outdoors and on boats.

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Key Points

• Price: $73 per person, with kids under 12 sailing free
• Duration: 1.5 hours in the afternoon
• Includes: Soft drinks, water, and a beverage package with 2 alcoholic drinks for those 21+
• Sailing vessel: The America 2.0, completed in 2011, with teak decks and mahogany trims
• Highlights: Views of Fort Zachary Taylor, Mallory Square, Sunset Pier, and Sand Key reef
• Wildlife spotting: Opportunities to see dolphins, sea turtles, and water birds
• Meeting point: 202 William Street, directly behind the Schooner Wharf Bar
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible; best suited for able-bodied guests
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Boarding the Elegant Schooner America 2.0 in Key West

The America 2.0 is a standout feature of this tour. Built with quality craftsmanship, she boasts teak decks, mahogany trimmings, and padded seating, making the 1.5-hour sail both comfortable and visually impressive. The boat’s 3,600 square feet of sail ensures a smooth ride, even for those new to sailing.

The boarding process takes place at 202 William Street, a convenient location behind the Schooner Wharf Bar. The courteous and professional crew welcomes guests warmly and is eager to share their sailing expertise. Safety briefings are straightforward, and the crew attentively manages the soft drinks, water, and alcoholic beverage service.

This vessel is suitable for guests who appreciate a well-maintained, aesthetically pleasing sailing ship. Its traditional schooner design also attracts those interested in classic maritime styles. Kids under 12 benefit from sailing free, making it a family-friendly option, though wheelchair users should note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Picturing Key West’s Coastal Views from the Water

From the deck of the America 2.0, you gain excellent vantage points of Key West’s coastline. As the schooner glides past Fort Zachary Taylor, a historic fortification on the southern edge of the island, viewers can appreciate its strategic position and impressive architecture. The boat then sails towards the Sand Key reef, famous for its vibrant marine life and clear, inviting waters.

The sail past Mallory Square offers a glimpse of the lively downtown area, while the scenic Sunset Pier promises stunning sunset views if you take the tour later in the day. The waterway is also a prime spot for spotting dolphins, sea turtles, and various water birds, making this not just a scenic cruise but also an opportunity for wildlife observation.

Guests report that crew members are very knowledgeable about the local sights and marine life, enhancing the experience with informative commentary as the schooner moves along. The timing in the afternoon allows for calm seas and unhurried sightseeing, though the short duration means you don’t get to explore these sights in detail—it’s primarily a relaxing, scenic sail.

The Crew and Safety on the Schooner America 2.0

The professional and courteous crew leads the sail, ensuring both safety and enjoyment. They are described as knowledgeable about Key West and its maritime history, providing informative stories that enrich the experience without overwhelming guests.

Safety measures include a briefing at the start and clear instructions for onboard conduct. The crew is also attentive to weather conditions, adjusting as needed to provide a smooth and safe ride. The sailboat’s design with padded benches ensures comfort, and soft drinks and water are always available during the cruise.

For those over 21, the drink upgrade offers two alcoholic beverages, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. The beverage service complements the tranquil cruising experience and adds a festive touch without feeling intrusive.

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Food and Drink Options on the Sail

The tour includes complimentary soft drinks and water, which are sufficient for staying refreshed during the sail. Guests are encouraged to bring their own picnic lunch if they wish to enjoy a light meal onboard.

The upgrade option allows guests over 21 to select 2 alcoholic drinks, which are served during the cruise. No food is provided as part of the tour, so visitors should plan accordingly if they desire a more substantial meal.

The onboard bar and refreshments contribute to a casual, leisurely atmosphere that pairs well with the stunning views of Key West’s coastline. The availability of alcohol is limited to the upgrade, making it a laid-back, social experience.

Logistics and Meeting Details for the Sail

The meeting point for the tour is at 202 William Street, conveniently located behind the Schooner Wharf Bar. The boarding process is straightforward, and the crew is known for being courteous and organized.

Guests should arrive a few minutes early, bringing passport or ID, driver’s license, and credit card for check-in. Sunscreen is recommended due to the outdoor nature of the cruise, but smoking is not allowed onboard.

The tour typically runs in the afternoon and is free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in planning. The shorter duration suits those who want a quick, scenic water experience without committing to a longer cruise.

Comparing This Sail to Other Key West Water Tours

While this 1.5-hour sail offers a relaxed, scenic experience with plenty of photo opportunities, it is more focused on leisure and sightseeing than on activities like snorkeling or sunset viewing. The small group size and attentive crew help create an intimate atmosphere.

Compared to other cruises with dinner, live music, or snorkeling, this trip emphasizes ease and comfort. It’s particularly appealing for families with children, given the free sailing for kids under 12, and for anyone seeking a short, high-quality sailing experience without extensive planning.

The price point of $73 makes it an excellent value considering the quality of the vessel and the views. For those interested in more immersive activities, similar experiences like sunset cruises or snorkeling tours are available nearby, but this sail provides a quick, elegant escape from the island’s hustle.

Final Thoughts on the Key West Schooner Day Sail

The Key West: Schooner Day Sail with Onboard Bar stands out as a stylish, relaxing way to enjoy the waters of Key West. Its elegant vessel, combined with friendly crew and iconic sights, makes it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups wishing to experience sailing in comfort.

The short duration keeps it manageable, and the included beverages, especially the alcohol upgrade, add a touch of leisure. The views of Fort Zachary Taylor, Mallory Square, and Sand Key reef are particularly memorable, and the wildlife sightings enhance the overall experience.

While not suitable for wheelchair users, the tour is well-suited for those who appreciate classic sailing and scenic waterscapes. For anyone seeking a relaxed, visually stunning cruise with a professional crew, this sail offers excellent value and genuine charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a age limit for children?
Children under 12 sail free on all afternoon departures.

Can I bring my own food onboard?
Yes, guests are encouraged to bring their own picnic lunch but no food is provided by the tour.

What is included in the price?
The price includes soft drinks, water, and a beverage package with 2 alcoholic drinks for those 21 and older.

Is the tour accessible to wheelchair users?
No, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The meeting point is at 202 William Street, directly behind the Schooner Wharf Bar.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring passport or ID, driver’s license, credit card, and sunscreen.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included and is at guests’ discretion.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts 1.5 hours in the afternoon.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its beautiful vessel, friendly crew, and iconic views of Key West make it a relaxing, high-quality sailing option for all ages.

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