One of the highlights of Key West’s Conch Republic Days (Friday, April 15 through Sunday, April 24) is Schooner Wharf Bar’s legendary Wrecker’s Cup Race.
On Sunday, April 24, the fourth and final leg of this annual seafarer’s series shoves off at 1pm from Key West’s Historic Seaport.
Local boats compete in five different classes (Classic, Schooner, Multi-hull, Monohull over 30′ and Monohull under 30′) and reenact a time in Key West history where wreckers raced to a disabled ship, rescued the crew, and then claimed the cargo.
Of course, there is nothing to rescue at Sand Key except bruised egos from the last race in this anything-but-serious race, where bragging rights are the top prize. This culmination of this crazy “Day of Wreckoning” is a Post-Race Awards Party at Schooner Wharf Bar which starts at 7pm. Winners receive a bottle of Pusser’s Rum and a souvenir rum mug, as well as pseudo-antique Victory Trophies, Schooner Wharf BarTabs, and official Wrecker’s Race t-shirts.
There is also a barbecue, raffle, and lots of booty to be had, live music by local entertainer Michael McCloud from Noon to 5pm, followed by The Reach Out Trio from 6:30 – 11pm.
Expect plenty of pre-party action at the bar, where landlubbers can watch the ex-citing race action on Schooner Wharf’s big-screen video.
If you want to actually be a part of the racing action, you can grab a ride on Classic Harbor Line’s majestic Schooner America 2.0. Just be sure to reserve early because this gorgeous boat is super popular and always fills up fast. Info: 305-293-7245; sail-keywest.com.
You can find Schooner Wharf Bar at the foot of William St on Key West’s Historic Harborwalk. Info: 305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
Now, hoist those sails!
