Key West’s Schooner Appledore Star Champagne Sunset Sail

A 2-hour Champagne Sunset Sail aboard the Schooner Appledore Star offers a quintessential Key West experience. Priced with the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides a relaxed yet engaging way to enjoy the island’s famed sunset. Departing from the Historic Seaport, the tour features spacious decks, an ice-cold beverage selection, and the chance to help hoist the sails or take the wheel, appealing to both casual visitors and those wanting a touch of adventure. With a high customer rating of 5 stars based on three reviews, it’s clear this sail captures the imagination of many.

While the tour’s duration of 2 hours is perfect for an evening escape, it’s important to arrive 30 minutes early at the check-in booth located at the end of William Street. The unique bugeye schooner design makes this experience stand out, as it’s the only vessel of this oyster dragging style in Key West. The combination of beautiful views, quality drinks, and a friendly crew makes this sunset sail a worthwhile choice for those seeking a relaxed yet memorable outing.

Key Points

• Two-hour sunset cruise aboard the Appledore Star departs from Key West’s Historic Seaport.
• Includes a selection of champagne, boutique wine, tropical sangria, premium beer, and soft drinks.
• Helps satisfy your inner-sailor by allowing participation in hoisting sails or taking the wheel.
• Enjoy hors d’ouevres and cocktail shrimp made in the onboard kitchen.
• The sailing vessel is a rare bugeye schooner, last built in its oyster-dragging design.
• Spectacular views of Mallory Square’s Sunset Celebration, the Navy Mole, and Fort Zachary Taylor.

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The Unique Setting of Key West’s Schooner Appledore Star

The Appledore Star offers a one-of-a-kind sailing experience, beginning at the bustling Historic Seaport of Key West. This vessel’s bugeye schooner construction, the last of its kind, provides a nostalgic feel while offering modern comforts. The spacious decks allow plenty of room to relax, socialize, or simply enjoy the surroundings, making it suitable for small groups and those seeking an intimate atmosphere.

The sails are unfurled as the crew begins the cruise, setting the stage for a traditional sailing experience. Helping hoist the sails or taking a turn at the wheel are optional activities that add a hands-on element, perfect for anyone who wants to feel involved in the process. This mix of leisure, scenic beauty, and participation makes for a lively yet relaxed evening.

The Route and Key Ocean and Land Views

As the schooner leaves the harbor, it heads past some of Key West’s most iconic sights. Travelers enjoy views of Mallory Square’s Sunset Celebration, as the sun begins its fiery descent. The Navy Mole, where large ships dock, provides a maritime backdrop, while Fort Zachary Taylor adds a touch of history to the scenery.

Throughout the cruise, the captain expertly maneuvers the schooner, ensuring passengers get the best vantage points for the sunset. The fiery sky creates an ever-changing canvas, making each sunset unique. Watching the horizon from the deck, with champagne or tropical sangria in hand, enhances the sense of romance and serenity.

Drinks and Hors d’Oeuvres on Deck

One of the main highlights of this sunset sail is the wide selection of drinks included in the package. Guests can enjoy champagne, boutique wine, homemade tropical sangria, premium beers, and soft drinks. The signature cocktails like Bloody Mary or Dark & Stormy are available, along with options from the vessel’s treasure chest of top-shelf brands—including Tito’s, Crown Royal, Captain Morgan, and Chandon Brut.

Complementing the drinks are hors d’ouevres and cocktail shrimp, prepared in the onboard kitchen. These delicious bites help round out the experience, offering a satisfying taste of luxury as the sun dips below the horizon. The gourmet snacks complement the drinks perfectly, creating a festive, relaxing atmosphere.

Participation and Crew Engagement

Unlike many sunset cruises, this tour encourages guest participation. Passengers can help hoist the sails or take a turn at the wheel under the guidance of the experienced crew. This makes the experience more than just passive viewing; it becomes a brief but memorable glimpse into traditional sailing.

The friendly crew is praised for their warmth and expertise, making sure everyone feels comfortable, involved, and well-informed. They manage the vessel skillfully, ensuring a smooth ride while providing insights into the ship’s history and sailing basics. This personal touch enhances the overall value and enjoyment of the cruise.

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The Sailing Vessel: A Rare Buccaneer

The Appledore Star is the only bugeye schooner in Key West, drawing attention for its historic oyster dragging design. This last known vessel of its type offers a distinctive visual and historical element, making the cruise more than just a sunset sail—it’s a chance to experience a rare piece of maritime craftsmanship.

The vessel’s traditional lines and authentic construction provide a nostalgic sailing ambiance. Its large, comfortable decks are ideal for relaxing while appreciating the ocean breeze and panoramic views.

The Departure Process and Check-In Details

The check-in for this tour takes place 30 minutes before departure at a designated booth located at the end of William Street, just to the right of the Western Union sign. To find it, travelers should keep the water on their left from Elizabeth Street, pass shops on the right, and look for The Marker Resort and Schooner Wharf Bar as landmarks.

All participants are required to sign a waiver and receive a boarding pass during check-in. The coordinates for the check-in booth are 24.56038475036621, -81.80181121826172. Arriving early ensures smooth boarding and allows time to savor the pre-cruise atmosphere.

Practical Tips for a Memorable Sunset Sail

Guests should bring a valid government-issued ID if they plan to drink alcohol, as ID verification is required. The tour is conducted in English, and the duration of 2 hours makes it easy to fit into an evening plans.

Since the cruise features many drinks and hors d’ouevres, no additional food is necessary, but bringing sunscreen or a light jacket might be advisable, depending on the weather. The relaxed pace and interactive activities cater to all ages, but those looking for a quick, scenic escape will find this sail particularly satisfying.

Who Will Enjoy This Sunset Cruise?

This Key West sunset sail is perfect for romantic couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful yet engaging evening. The spectacular views, quality drinks, and friendly crew promise a memorable outing. The opportunity to help hoist sails suits those interested in a more hands-on experience, while the spacious decks accommodate those who just want to relax and soak in the scenery.

While the two-hour duration is ideal for a relaxed sunset, travelers with limited time may consider this a highlight of their evening plans. The unique bugeye schooner adds an extra layer of charm, making this tour a distinctive part of a Key West visit.

Key West’s Schooner Appledore Star Sunset Sail: Final Thoughts

The Appledore Star Champagne Sunset Sail combines scenic beauty, interactive sailing, and luxurious drinks and snacks into a well-rounded experience. Its 2-hour duration strikes an excellent balance between relaxation and adventure, with the unique vessel design providing an extra touch of history.

The friendly crew, beautiful views of Key West landmarks, and inclusive drinks menu make this sail stand out among sunset excursions. It’s an appealing choice for those who want a memorable, scenic, yet laid-back evening on the water.

The main considerations are arriving early for check-in and bringing ID if consuming alcohol. This cruise offers great value, especially given the quality of drinks and hors d’ouevres included. It’s a relaxing, beautifully scenic way to celebrate sunset in Key West.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the sunset cruise?
The cruise lasts 2 hours.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the Historic Seaport in Key West, with check-in at the William Street booth.

What drinks are included?
Guests enjoy champagne, boutique wine, homemade tropical sangria, premium beer, and soft drinks. Signature cocktails are available upon request.

Can I participate in sailing activities?
Yes, you can help hoist the sails or take a turn at the wheel, guided by the crew.

Is there any food served?
Yes, hors d’ouevres and cocktail shrimp made in the onboard kitchen are included.

What makes this vessel special?
It’s the only bugeye schooner in Key West, built in the historic oyster dragging style, making it a unique sailing vessel.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive 30 minutes prior for check-in and waivers.

Is alcohol consumption allowed?
Yes, but guests must bring a valid ID for alcohol service.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the focus is on a romantic and relaxed sunset experience, it can suit families with older children comfortable on a boat.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, sunscreen, and light layers if needed; no extra food is necessary.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

How does this tour compare to other Key West sunset cruises?
It offers a more interactive sailing experience aboard a historic vessel, with excellent drinks and snacks as highlights, making it a distinctive choice among similar options.

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