Our sail started on time after an easy check in. After a short walk we boarded an honest to goodness 2 masted monohull sailboat, not some high tech catamaran. A quick safety briefing and we motored out of the harbor. Once we were clear of the harbor the engine was cut and the sails were hoisted. Shortly a selection of 8 different wines from around the world were offered, 4 whites and 4 reds, starting with a sparkling wine toast. Craft beers were also offered but I didn’t try any so I can’t comment on them. Although the wines were not necessarily high end they were carefully chosen and all were excellent. Thankfully none were an oakey Chardonnay nor a typical California cab, although I was told that the selection was ever changing and sometimes does include these varieties. The wines were sourced from all over the world and some were blends.
Captain Brian and mates Matt and Joe did all of the sailing. I’m not sure if they would let you participate or not, I didn’t ask and didn’t see anyone else doing so. The crew did an excellent job. This particular sailboat had the booms fairly high up so if you were sitting down there would be little chance in finding out why they have that name.
When you board you sit outside on the raised cabin, on cushions, so the seating is comfortable. Joe would come by pouring the wine and Matt would follow with tasty small bites, so there was no crowding around a buffet. Seconds were encouraged and the wine pours were generous, especially when revisiting. Outstanding service from the crew.
We were blessed with excellent weather, but as you will be sitting outside be sure to check the weather and dress accordingly, bearing in mind that it is always somewhat cooler on the water.
My only word of caution is that this is a real sailboat ride and therefore you will experience the typical motion of a sailboat slicing through the waves, which my wife and I love. But if you do have a tendency to motion sickness you should take the normal, appropriate precautions.
Overall an excellent experience. My wife and I are already formulating plans to return to Key West and take this sail again.