If you’ve never sailed Key West’s emerald green waters with the wind in your hair and a sea breeze kissing your cheek, you’ve never really experienced our island paradise. Now that Spring is upon us, there are even more reasons to get out on the water. And there’s no better way to do it than aboard Key West’s majestic Schooner America 2.0.
Docked in Key West’s Historic Harbor, this regal, 105-foot replica of the 19th-century Schooner America (the first America’s Cup winner!) is the Queen Mother of all sailing adventures. From sunset sails, sightseeing cruises, nighttime excursions, and even special event sails, the luxury Schooner America 2.0. is renowned for the best sailing in Key West.
Climb aboard for a relaxing morning or afternoon Classic Day Sail, where you’ll get an incredible harbor view of some of Key West’s most famous landmarks before heading out for some glorious open-water sailing. If you’re lucky, you might even see a wild dolphin show!
Schooner America’s premiere Champagne Sunset Sails (nightly) is an awe-inspiring way to experience a spectacular Key West sunset. Make no mistake: sailing aboard Schooner America 2.0 is a totally different experience than sailing aboard one of Key West’s party boats. It’s an elevated cruise that delivers a primal “Ah-ha” sensation. It’s about sailing. Real sailing.
Feeling starry-eyed? Then mark your calendar for Schooner America’s special Full Moon Sail (February 12, March 13, and April 12) or the “After-Hour” Stargazing Cruise (February 21 and 22) with resident astronomer Kevin Gallagher. The celestial phenomena on both of these night cruises are a totally immersive experience that’s absolutely enthralling!
On February 14, nothing says “I love you” like Schooner America 2.0’s amorous and memorable Valentine’s Day Cruise. This heartfelt couples’ cruise is not only romantic, it also includes a delicious bottle of French champagne served in beautifully etched souvenir glass flutes. Oooh-la-la!
And if you want to experience something really exhilarating, join the crew of Schooner America 2.0 for Key West’s Annual Wreckers Cup Race. This raucous four-leg race is a wild 7-mile sail to nearby Sand Key but is anything but serious. It’s always a hoot; the race happens on the last Sunday of the month. The first leg took place in January, but there are three more legs coming up on the last Sunday of the month (February 23, March 30, and April 27). But here’s the best part: you’re welcome to join the crew of Schooner America 2.0 for all the fast action.
That’s right. You can actually participate in the race and feel the thrill of “burying the rail” in a race that will give you goosebumps!
And get this: when the Blue Angels Air Show returns on Saturday, March 29, you can glean their breathtaking aerial maneuvers in high style — from the sleek teak decks of Schooner America 2.0. Your adventure includes three complimentary premium beverages and a delicious, gourmet lunch. It’s a fantastic event that only occurs once every two years. Seats are limited, so reserve now!
The Schooner 2.0 sails in Key West from November through April, and her sister ship, the 80′ Adirondack III, an 1890s-style pilot schooner, hoists her sails here year-round. Find them both at 202 William Street, on the docks fronting Schooner Wharf Bar. Info: 305-293-7245; sail-keywest.com.
Sail On, Sail On, Sailor!
