Sailing in Florida, USA
Rating (8/10)
Although the Florida Keys are well known for their spectacular coral reefs, excellent marina facilities and quiet restful anchorages - halfway down the coast of Florida lies St. Petersburg and Fort Myers, a central point for quiet cruising. Sailing or power boating here offers warm, protected waters where dolphins play, as well as open water sails in the Gulf of Mexico. From April to October winds are east 8 to 10 knots with afternoon sea breezes. November to March west to southwest winds from 10 to 15 knots. Light breezes prevail throughout the year. Charters from Miami Beach or Key West, or one way between the two bases and cruise into the peaceful serenity of the Florida Keys, over 125 miles of islands warmed by the Gulfstream.
The islands of the Florida Keys run south west from the city of Miami and are connected by bridges and causeways. Cruise the coastline along Hawk Channel or Florida Bay on "the inside". The first island is Key Largo which offers some of the finest diving and snorkeling in the Florida Keys. One of the main attractions in Key Largo is the John Pennekamp State Park. Islamorada, just south of Key Largo, is known for its world class sport fishing. Marathon Key is known as the heart of the Florida Keys and offers many relaxing. Big Pine Key and the Lower Florida Keys are as kicked back as it gets here. Boating is one of the number one attractions. At the "southernmost" end, you have the historic seafaring town of Key West, laid-back and friendly. Walk the beach and watch a beautiful sunset, or dance all night in downtown Key West.
