Florida Keys Recreation

Florida Keys & Key West
Recreation

Capt. Lee Lucas and local Chef Charlotte share a big catch off Marathon

The Florida Keys and Key West are paralleled by North America's only living contiguous
coral barrier reef and the pristine waters surrounding our spectacular island chain have
been designated as the Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary ---2,800 square nautical miles of
protected waters teeming with over 600 species of tropical fish, historic shipwrecks and
all kinds of natural treasures.

These waters are also one of the best places in the world to experience sunset sails,
fishing, kayaking, deep water diving, snorkeling and back country eco-adventures.

Here's your guide to fun in the sun.

KEY LARGO/
EVERGLADES AREA

HORIZON DIVERS
Voted "To Operator in the World", "Top Value" and "Top Staff,"
by Rodale's Scuba Diving Magazine. Located in the heart of Key
Largo, this family owned and operated full service dive shop and
dive operator offers scuba divers, snorkelers and bubble watchers
both day and night trips to the best Upper Keys reefs and wrecks.
Both beginners and experienced divers receive personalized PADI
scuba instructional by Horizon's friendly, knowledgeable crew. Dive
guides also available upon request. Don't worry if you don't have
your own equipment because you can rent it right here. There's also
guest storage, a shower and picnic area. Major credit cards. Open
daily. Located at MM 100, Oceanside, Key Largo. Give 'em a call
at 305-453-3535 or visit www.horizondivers.com

ISLAMORADA /
TAVERNIER AREA

A1A WATERSPORTS & BOAT RENTALS
Voted "Best Wave Runner Tour" by Jet Ski Magazine, A1A's’ two
hour,26 mile guided snorkeling adventure is just the ticket for water-
sport junkies. You get it all here: snorkeling, sightseeing, exploring
hidden mangrove tunnels,racing around an ultra-cool slalom course,
sandbar stops, free-riding time and more. Expect to see lots of tropical
fish, maybe some dolphin, stingray, tarpon, turtles and an occasional
manatee. The highly acclaimed tour is available by boat, as well. If
freedom riding is what you're after, A1A has the newest Yamaha four
stroke machines and the largest open water riding areas around for
wave runner rentals. Full safety instruction provided and Florida Boat
Safety Certification available on site. Located at the Days Inn, MM82.7,
Oceanside, Islamorada. You can reach them at 305-664-8182 or go to
www.keyswatersports.com

BLUE CHIP TOO CHARTERS
Capt. Skip Bradeen has been fishing the waters of the Florida Keys
since 1966 and is one of the most popular and notorious charter
boat captains in the Keys. This guy is truly the "reel" deal and the
#1 captain to hook up with when yo0u're seerious about tackling the
big ones. Just ask President George H. Bush, Jimmy Buffett, Billy
Martin Don Johnson or Jim "Mad Dog" Mandich. To top it off, he's
got a sense of humor that will keep you laughing all day long. You
can find Skip and his 52' custom designed Carolina Sport Fisherman
at Whale AHarbor Marina, MM 83.5 Oceanside, Islamorada. Give
him a ring at 305-664-8150 or go to www.bluechiptoo.com

MARATHON/
& THE LOWER KEYS AREA

CAPTAIN HOOK'S MARINA & DIVE CENTER
It may not be Marathon's biggest marina but it is surely one of the
busiest and conveniently located at Vaca Cut so you have fast, easy
access to both the Gulf and the Atlantic. Snorkelers and divers can
jump aboard the "Island Hopper" for a quick trip to the reef every day
at 8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. If fishing is more your gig, rent or charter a
boat with your own fishing guide. The marina store has all sorts of
cool stuff, too. Located at MM 53, Oceanside at Vaca Cut, Marathon.
Call 305-743-2444.

CAPTAIN PIPS CHARTER BOATS & RENTALS
If you're looking for a memorable fishing adventure, these are the
guys to call. Rent your own super clean U.S.C.G. equipped boat by
the day or week and explore the Keys crystalline waters or opt for
one of Captain Pip’s individual custom charters for some blue water
trolling, reef, wreck and bridge fishing or stalking the flats. The
seasoned fishing guides here are real pros who know all the local
hot spots and can help you hook your target fish. Fishing/Lodging
Packages include either charter fishing or rental boats. Located at
MM 47.5, Gulfside, Marathon. Call 305-743-4403; 800-707-1692;
www.captainpips.com

KEY WEST

DANGER CHARTERS
Get off the beaten track and sail to the most remote and tropical
islands of the Keys. Danger Charters sails to the Out Islands of
the Key West National Wildlife Refuge. Set anchor and enjoy
tranquil guided kayaking through mangrove canopies then set sail
to a remote un-disturbed and pristine patch of reef for a very
personalized snorkeling experience. Excursion includes all gear,
instruction, gourmet snacks, fresh fruit, sodas, water, wine and beer.
If you're feeling more romantic, wait until early evening and cast off
on Danger's intimate Wind & Wine Sunset Sail where you can sip on
a glass of Chandon Cuevee Brut and nibble on fresh strawberries and
brie. Book direct and ask for your TRAVELHOST discount. Leaves
from the Westin Key West Resort & Marina located at 245 Front St.,
Key West. Call 305-296-3272 or visit www.dangercharters.com

SCHOONER ADIRONDACK II
This classic style 80’ wooden gaff-rigged schooner, with her fine
teak decks, 70’ Douglas Fir mast and almost 2000 square feet of
billowing white sails, is truly one of the most elegant vessels in
the Keys. Modeled after the 1890’s style pilot schooners, the
Adirondack II sets a daily course for an eye-opening Mimosa
Morning Sail, breathtaking Classic Day Sail, romantic Sunset
Sail and brilliant Full Moon and Stargazer Sails. It also sets a
stunning stage for special celebrations, weddings and corporate
events for up to 60 people. Departs from the Schooner Wharf
Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport. FYI: Get $5 off when you
book direct and mention TRAVELHOST. For info and tickets,
call 305-293-7245; www.sail-keywest.com

SCHOONER JOLLY II ROVER
Rediscover old world sailing on this classic 80' Caribbean coastal
sailing ship --- the same kind used by famous pirates, rum runners
and those adventurous souls who first sought the freedom and solitude
of the Florida Keys over 100 years ago. Romantic daily Sunset Sails,
private day sails, weddings, special events, corporate outings, overnight
excursions, educational courses and more. Departs from the Conch
Republic Seafood Company in Key West's Historic Seaport. Book direct
at 305-304-2235 and ask for your special TRAVELHOST rate or
visit www.schoonerjollyrover.com and enter promo code TH2008.