Everyone who knows me understands that I am in my happy place around the water. More calming to me than any drug a doctor might prescribe. So it’s natural that a trip to the Keys would involve a lot of time exploring the marinas and the vessels in the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean, the canals or those berthed.
Boating has a rich history in Key West starting probably even before Ponce de Leon’s landing here in search of the Fountain of Youth. In addition to the history of explorers and pirates and modern day fishing and pleasure craft, there’s long been a significant U.S. Navy presence.
Because the water is often shallow there are many shipwrecks off the Key West shores.
There are a plethora of marinas - many of them hosting historic restaurants and watering holes - both on Key West and nearby Stock Island.
In addition to pleasure craft one can find and, in my case at least, marvel at, commercial fishing boats like these. Often nearby one can find fish markets that sell both commercially to the many fine eateries here, and retail as well if you’re inclined to prepare fresh catch of the day. (By the way, if you don’t have a kitchen where you’re staying many of the restaurants here will prepare your fresh catch for you).
In addition to the fishing charter boats, the tour boats (sunset tours are a favorite), even house boats are in plentiful supply. Ah, home sweet home!
Even massive cruise ships make Key West a day stop - although it’s far too short a time ashore to really visit the island. Though there’s time for a selfie in front of Sloppy Joe’s which, seemingly, is satisfying enough for many who disembark.
And for a fun way of getting here, there’s this ferry linking Key West to Fort Meyers
All photos copyright Gary Baumgarten
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Fort Myers has a rich and fascinating history, Thomas Edison's winter laboratory and Henry Ford's estate. Sanibel Island is worth at least one complete day, and the Ding Darling bird sanctuary.
Could you snap a couple of shots of the rescue boats in the area especially the fire boats for me?