With Spring Break just around the corner, many people are preparing to jet off on a well-deserved vacation to a warm, tropical place. Rather than flying to a distant destination to relax on a beach, why not take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy the Florida Keys’ beauty, solitude, and relaxing waters? The Florida Keys are ideally located south of Miami and consist of 40 islands, each with its own particular offering. Home to North America’s only live coral barrier reef, there are numerous experiences available, ranging from watersports to unusual sightseeing and luxury treatments. Our four-day itinerary to the Florida Keys has something for everyone, demonstrating why you should book a Florida Keys yacht charter today.
Day 1: South Beach and Key Biscayne.
Board your yacht from the Island Gardens Marina and cruise down the main channel, admiring the stunning houses and hotels on Star, Hibiscus, and Palm Island. Anchor in open waters just off South Beach and bring the tender ashore for lunch at Nikki Beach. Lay out on the deck as you go towards Key Biscayne, a vast marine reserve to the north of the Keys that includes spectacular reefs, sandbars, and the famed Stiltsville, which consists of pastel-colored stilted cottages. Before visiting the 19th-century Cape Florida Lighthouse at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, explore the mangroves and tropical forests, which are home to wonderful animals. Watch the spectacular sunset from your yacht and delight in a gourmet five-course meal cooked by your private chef.
Day Two: The Keys
As your yacht travels southward towards the Florida Keys, you’ll wake up. Breakfast on the sands of Boca Chita Key Beach before heading to the Mandalay wreck for a morning of activities such as swimming, diving, and snorkelling. If you’re lucky, a school of dolphins may join you. As you ride along the coastlines of Elliot Keys, Old Rhodes Key, and Islandia, stop for lunch on the deck. In the afternoon, try your hand at deep-sea fishing, which is known to provide some of the best catches, with over 600 species living the waters. Bonus: You can have your chef prepare any catches for dinner.
Day Three: Key Largo
Upon arrival at Key Largo, the world’s dive capital, prepare for a morning of underwater experiences amidst its expansive coral reef. Swim amid the colourful corals in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, America’s first underwater park. Take a well-deserved rest and have a picnic on the beach before heading ashore to play golf in the verdant surroundings or shop at the island’s quirky stores. As the sun slowly sets, indulge in some of the best local cuisine at the finest eateries. As the evening comes to a close, cruise towards Indian Key as the stars emerge.
Day Four: Key West
Early in the morning, cruise to Key West, the concluding stop on your Florida Keys charter adventure.
The island, located at the southernmost edge of the United States, is well-known for its conch-style residences, lively nightlife, and inviting hospitality. During the morning, you can rest or participate in a variety of activities before heading ashore to honour literary history at the Ernest Hemingway Museum. As twilight falls, stroll through its picturesque alleyways before heading to Mallory Square for the Sunset Celebrations, an exuberant event including musicians, jugglers, and other performers. Visit the historic Duval Street for some Latin-inspired cuisine while experiencing the heart of Key West.