The fish are jumpin' for these sailors!

Hank and Susan came to sail and test the waters to see if they would pursue the sport as a part of their free time hobbies. Both are active fitness enthusiasts and with competitive spirits and embraced the concepts of sailing. Susan was a past catamaran sailor, and Hank had previous sailing experience in the New York Sound. We spent the first day sailing the breezes in Hawk's Channel, reviewing their water skills. The winds were light, and the temperatures high, but the conditions were right for the sea life to strut their stuff. In May it's the time for the fish to jump! We saw a sea ray take off out of the water like a 747, also three tarpons splashing near the boat. At another sailing moment, we came upon two large sea turtles paddling about happily in love. Ann spent some time on the bow calling the dolphins with her new whistle, but with no luck. Back at the marina, we saw hovering schools of grey snappers trying to school (and hide) from the tarpons. Much was shared - good knots, good food, good laughs, good company!

Hank and Susan - Thank you for sharing yourselves and sailing with us!
Bob, Ann, and Selah

View off Tavernier Key at Sunset

Enjoying a Mahi Mahi dinner back at home port.

2-Day Couples Sailing Vacation in the Florida Keys

Update 10 May 2011

Many thanks to Danish and Lamar for sending along some photos from their memorable adventure :)

A rarely seen view of Indian Summer II taken from the perspective of the snorkeler.

The monkeys guard the newly de-corked libation as it breathes.

Another fine gourmet meal at sea. Who says we have to rough it out here?

Gifts for the monkeys: Custom tailored hat and blanket will keep them warm in the higher latitudes.

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21-22 April 2011

Danish ("Pumpkin") and Lamar ("Mister") Harrell from mid-coast Florida drove down to join Sunshine Coast Adventures for a 2-day sailing, snorkeling, and kayaking vacation aboard Indian Summer II. This was the first time they had been on a trip by themselves since their 2-1/2 year old twins were born. Clearly they were ready for some adult time and eagerly seized every opportunity to have fun and relax.

The weather was perfect: Mostly sunny with winds 15-20 knots from the east; daytime temperatures in mid-80's, nighttime mid 70's; water temperature 81F. Overnight anchorage SW side of Rodriguez Key. Snorkeling at Molasses Reef.

It was great having you aboard! Thank you very much :)

~ Capt. Jeff

Lamar and Danish enjoy the smooth sailing

Time to check out the island with the kayak

"We could get used to this lifestyle!"

Gearing up for snorkeling at Molasses Reef

Blue water and infinite visibility! :)

"Someone has to do all the 'work'..."

"...while others take it easy..."

Another perfect day in paradise. Sunset at Rodriguez Key. Sailing adventure in the Florida Keys.

"Dear Jeff,

What a beautiful sailing experience! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and also letting us play. I enjoyed learning and unwinding. We hope to see you again soon and head out on a longer trip...

Thank you so much,

Danish & Mister"

ASA 103 Couples Sailing Adventure

Linda and Steve from the Woodlands, Texas joined us to continue their quest to find out more about sailing! They had recently completed their ASA 101 last fall, and decided to get three days of more sail time on a live-aboard adventure. It was their first time visit to the Keys area and the weather complimented out adventure by providing 10-15 knot winds to practice the ASA 103 sailing skills. Water temperature was 85 degrees - great for a nice dip, and sea kayaking to nearby Tavernier and Indian Keys in the early evening and morning. The last day we headed out to the "blue water" to catch more wind, and then beam reached back to Tavernier making home port to finish up by practice docking skills.

Steve heading out on the first day.

Couples live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

Coming about - Linda adjusting in the jib sheet.
Couples live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

Relaxing after a breezy afternoon of sailing....life is good, sailors.
Couples live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

Linda and Steve off to explore on a kayak around Tavernier Key.
Couples live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

Steve practicing a controlled jibe on the helm for his ASA 103 certification.

Couples live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

Another kayak trip to Indian Key in the morning of our third day.
Couples live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

Linda working on her navigation skills in the blue water.
Couples live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

Taking the ASA 103 exams during the afternoon sail back home .

Couples live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

4/9/2011
Bob and Ann -
Had a great time. Ann and Bob are the best. Steve and Linda

Family Adventure ASA101/103 Sailing Vacation 3-7 Apr 2011

07 April 2011

This week Sunshine Coast Adventures was pleased to host the super nice Gordon family from Decatur, Georgia. Devin's goals were to complete ASA101/103 initially this trip, then do some practice lake sailing this summer near home, then go for ASA104 later in preparation for taking his family on a bareboat charter trip in the British Virgin Islands. We are happy to report that Devin worked hard and achieved the first goal... congratulations! Kim and Brayden learned a bunch too, including terminology, steering, sail trim, and knot tying! They will make for top notch crew on their next sailing adventure.

Fresh easterly winds in the beginning of the trip led us to start the adventure early and make a fast passage down under the Channel 5 Bridge in Islamorada. First night at anchor was spent in Matecumbe Bight. Next morning a chance to snorkel near an abandoned quarry, followed by some some practice tacking and jibing on the smooth water of Florida Bay. Second night spent at Shell Key on the inside mooring ball. Third day saw us sailing "jib and jigger" (jib and mizzen, no mainsail) up the Intra-Coastal Waterway toward the Snake Creek Bascule Bridge. We made the noon bridge opening and then sailed downwind in Hawk Channel being pushed by southwesterlies all the way back up to our home waters near Tavernier. A brief but intense squall line chilled the air and wet the decks with a bit of fresh water as we came to anchor near Rodriguez and Dove Keys off of Key Largo. Fourth day we snorkeled the beautiful clear blue waters at Molasses Reef and then anchored in the lee of Rodriguez Key. We were joined by no less than 17 other boats (sail and power), most of whom were gone by dawn, making their way to the Bahamas or perhaps further up the coast before the summertime comes.

Thank you very much Gordon family for a great 5 days!

~Capt. Jeff

Dad coaches Son on the helm....

Family live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

...while Mom relaxes in-between jib sheet trimming duties.

Family live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

The Key Largo glass bottom boat and Molasses Reef light form the backdrop for our intrepid snorkelers.

Family live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

Beautiful clear blue water; visibility >60 feet. Happy snorkelers here.

Family live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

Brayden checks for traffic while holding a steady course.

Family live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

The whole family about to take an evening kayak ride to the island.

Family live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

We saw lots of big smiles this week! :)

Family live aboard sailing vacation in the FL Keys/ASA certifications

Dear Jeff,

Thanks for the amazing trip. What a way to totally unwind. We learned so much! I can't wait for Brayden to share pictures and knots to his class.

Thanks again,

Kim, Devin & Brayden

For more information on our ASA sailing classes and instruction in Key Largo, FL. Please visit our website at www.sunshinesailing.com

We offer live aboard ASA sailing courses in the Florida Keys for couples, singles and women. We also offer sailing classes and sailing charters for families that would like to learn to sail in a friendly environment. During a typical live aboard sailing course, we mix in some snorkeling and some fishing while sailing. It makes for a perfect learn to sail vacation.

To read testimonials about our Learn to sail vacation packages and our sailing instructors at our Key Largo location please click here

A Custom Expedition for the Duke!

Margaret enjoying a sunset from Selah's front deck.

This was a definitely a Discovery Expedition for Margaret - an adventurous young woman from Canada! Margaret and her parents Julie and George, arrived eager to begin their five day sail which counted as a Duke of Edinburgh event! Margaret, sailing for the Duke’s silver award, was on a mission that would meet the requirements of the award: an expedition that included planning, training, navigation, and completing an adventurous journey!

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award in the UK is a youth charity that offers the world's leading achievement award for young people.. A pilot award in 1956 started the program, with Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh as chairman. Participants select and set objectives in each of the following areas:

• Volunteering: undertaking service to individuals or the community.
• Physical: improving in an area of sport, dance or fitness activities.
• Skills: developing practical and social skills and personal interests.
• Expedition: planning, training for and completion of an adventurous journey in the UK or abroad.

And adventurous was our sailing journey!

Preparation night was at Tavernier Key, morning navigation planning, afternoon sailing and motoring skills. Day two was snorkeling and exploring the sea life at the reef. Night two was a mooring at Indian Key. Late afternoon sent the women on a kayak adventure to hike the deserted key at dusk. Very eerie , but also very beautiful! On to sailing, swimming and exploration at Lignumvitae Key and a trip to Robbie’s Marina. Then on to Snake Creek. Margaret led us through the pass with radio calls to the bridge, and some excitement as we touched bottom at low tide! She was a cool headed sailor in times of challenge! Mom and Dad also got into the sailing scene with learning the knots, taking the helm, and just enjoying the beautiful sunrises and sunsets! An upwind tacking dual took us to our last night at Rodriquez Key. Again, two women sailors took the paddles and explored the wildlife along the shore. The last day was a fast “wing-on-wing” broad reach into the Tavernier channel with Margaret at the wheel bringing Selah into home port. The Duke would be very happy with Margaret and her achievements. And like Margaret, George, and Julie, I’m sure he’s an avid sailor at heart!

Our best to Margaret, George, and Julie, and to all their future adventures! It was an honor to sail with you! On to the Gold!

Captain Ann, Captain Bob, and Selah

George taking the wheel on day one.

One of Julie's favorite spots - Selah's front deck!

Off to snorkel at the reef! Conditions were right - warm clear water and lots of fish and coral.

Julie and George relaxing. They enjoyed some great book reading, sunrises, and sunsets!

Off to explore Indian Key at dusk!

Team work paddling to Indian Key.

The following morning, sunrise over Indian Key

Margaret taking Selah through the Snake Creek Bridge.


As we begin our pass through Snake Creek, George on deck.

Julie at the wheel, taking us to our last night's anchorage at Rodriquez Key.


Pirates at sea!
Setting the mainsail!
Margaret bringing Selah to home port on the last day.

5 Day Family Sailing Adventure

March 14-18, 2011
We had fabulous weather this week for our 5 day Family Sailing Adventure and ASA 101-103.
Michael, Mirella, Alathea, and Cassandra from Toronto were treated to the best the Keys have to offer, warm breezes and crystal clear water. Due to the time change and these nice longer days, we were able to really pack in a lot of fun! Long days of sailing, snorkeling, dinghy trips to visit historic Key's landmarks and see local Key's color.

Michael and Cassandra at the helm

Our first day we departed the marina early in the afternoon and set a course SW to the Florida Bay. Passing under Channel Five bridge right at sunset was a treat! And thanks to Michael super yellow sunglass lenses we navigated the lobster buoys safely to our anchorage in Matacumbe Bite well after dark.

Mirella at the helm in Florida Bay, Michael ready to trim the sheets while we practice our sailing maneuvers.

Ever the Fashionista, Cassandra modeling her pink and yellow outfit and matching pink sailing gloves. We might be the best looking crew sailing on the bay!

Cassandra and Michael trim while we practice tacking.

After a long day sailing we arrive at Lignumvitae Key and take a dinghy ride to Robby's Marina. A colorful local haunt where brave youngsters can feed the giant Tarpon!

Brave Alathea holds the fish while this monster Tarpon approaches for the free snack!

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

The pelicans are not left out of this game either, they reach out from behind the latticework and steal the fish, causing quite the splash.

Well fed Pelicans and Tarpon

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

The following day after an early morning sail NE, we stop at a local reef for some snorkeling.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

Michael takes Alathea to see the coral. Squeals are heard emanating through the snorkel as the colorful fish swim about.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

Mirella and Cassandra enjoying the swim.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

The ladies enjoying a beautiful evening off Tavernier Key with homemade Indian curry. Sailing and swimming work up quite the appetite.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

After another great sail, we arrive at Molassas Reef on day 4 for another snorkel adventure. Alathea and Cassandra prepare to dive in.

Mirella poses by the crystal clear water in front of the reef.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

And clear it was, best visibility in months.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

The girls eagerly wait for Michael so they can jump in.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

Michael swims the girls out to the reef.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

Molassas tower in the background.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

Mirella and I stand watch and prepare lunch for our hungry little swimmers.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

A nice afternoon of sail practice leads us to a beautiful sunset off Rodriguez Key.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

We gobble up our home made pizza and watch the sunset!

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

Mirella demonstrates that beautiful ladies can be fabulous sailors! I just loved her hat!

Again, Mirella grinning ear to ear behind the helm, she always seems to get the boat sailing a little faster than Michael.

This time Michael gets to play with the lines as the girls read and relax.

Cassandra relaxing while we sail in a steady 16knts of breeze. She has her sea legs now!

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

Mirella and Alathea enjoying the sail.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

Michael aka. MR. 100%, now gets to play behind the helm, also grinning ear to ear trying to sail the boat just a bit faster.

ASA live aboard family sailing vacation in FL and the FL Keys

Mirella, Alathea, Cassandra and Michael at Robby's Marina.

Thank you all for letting me be your host this week. What a spectacular trip, form the sailing, swimming, food and conversation. Playing with the girls was such a treat and they both have such a high degree of natural skill I can't wait to see how they both progress. Keep sailing and making those dreams come true, you are an awesome family. ~ Capt..Edana

Dear Edana and Cour Volant- Thank you for an amazing voyage! We had a wonderful time. Mr 100%, myself and the girls were treated like family. Your cooking was delicious. Fish Tacos Yum!! You are a great teacher and helped us regain our love of sailing. All the best..Mirella, Michael, Alathea and Cassandra