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Florida and more specifically Fort Lauderdale is the yachting capital of the USA. All the international charter brokers, yacht brokers and crewing agencies have an office in Fort Lauderdale which also has the infrastructure to support the yachting industry. The annual boat show in October is the largest in the USA. Not all the charter yachts are based in Fort Lauderdale, there are many available for charter on the Gulf coast.
The Florida Keys are the most popular sailing area and many wonderful days can be had here. The Florida Keys are over 100 miles long from Key Largo in the east to Key West at the other end. The islands can be grouped into five areas but with many islands and communities in each group. Each group has its own distinct flavor and all should be visited.
Key Largo, is the closest key to the mainland and the home of the world's largest artificial reef, a 510ft sunken warship. It is also home to the spectacular John Pennekamp Coral Reef Underwater State Park and the famous Christ of the Abyss underwater statue. It really is rich for divers and snorkelers as well as for visiting yachtsmen and restaurants offering Florida Keys seafood are in abundance.
Islamorada, means purple isle and is recognized as the sport fishing capital of the world. There are many diving and snorkeling sites. Islamorada has an abundance of restaurants, bars and entertainment.
Marathon, is in the heart of the Florida Keys and is popular year round for sport fishing and water activities.
The extensive group of islands known as the Lower Keys includes Big Pine Key, Cudjoe Key, Sugarloaf Key and many more. Just above Key West, this group of islands are known for their natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
Key West, the southernmost city in the continental United State, has the tropical flavor of the Caribbean with beautiful water, historical attractions and non stop activities. Famous for its association with Ernest Hemingway, Key West has so much to offer the visitor and yachtsman.
The Florida Keys are not the only sailing area to visit in Florida. You can also enjoy sailing and exploring bays, rivers, estuaries, barrier islands and the open waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Secluded anchors, upscale marinas, parks with nature preserves, hundreds of restaurants and a great diversity of shopping are all part of the Tampa Bay Experience. A perfect chain of barrier islands protects the coastline and is one of the largest protected bays in the country. Although the area is fairly shallow in nature, it is well documented and full of navigational aids. With a wide variety of seaside towns, secluded anchors and fine marinas, captains and crew will enjoy the beautiful white sandy beaches, sparkling blue waters, gentle winds, abundant birds and dolphins.
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Source by Bruce Walls
