A Typical Itinerary for a Florida Fishing Adventure (FA) at the Brinton Environmental Center (BEC)

Everyone has questions about the Sea Base Keys Adventure Islamorada. One of the most common is, what is the typical itinerary, beyond the printed schedule? Here it is, based on reports from from actual participants!

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Sea Base, Keys Adventure Islamorada (KI)

This is a Sunday to Friday 5 nights, 6 days adventure based in Islamorada base camp, fishing from 28 ft. fishing boats, sailing the Florida waters, snorkeling, paddling among mangroves, sleeping in air conditioned dorms (73800 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036), Expect to be catching mahi-mahi, tuna, mackerel, snapper, wahoo and more! You will also snorkel at Looe coral reef, seeing the fish in their natural habitat. Cook the fish you catch,

Arrival Day

Your crew mate will give you a tour of the facilities, assign you to your dorm, conduct your swim/snorkel review, and give you time to settle in. Leader’s meeting around 5:30 PM, dinner around 5:45 PM.

After dinner: brief opening ceremony. Then lights out.

Accommodations (Dorms)

Nights are spent in air-conditioned dormitories at the Islamorada base. Dorms are air-conditioned with bunk beds (twin-sized mattresses, often thin/hard; bring a thick air mattress, sleeping pad, or egg-crate topper). Large dorms are divided by plywood partitions and curtains into sections. Linens are not provided. Shared shower and free laundry facilities (detergent often included) are available. Some have footlockers (bring your own lock). Power outlets are limited; bring extension cords and power strips.

Day 1 (First Full Day)

Fishing starts in the morning on ~28 ft. fishing vessels (center-console boats). Focus on Florida Bay (backcountry fishing, possible reef edges depending on conditions). Crew chooses techniques (trolling, bottom fishing, etc.), subject to weather and guidance. Gear provided. Florida saltwater fishing license required for ages 16+. Return afternoon/evening.

Days 2-4 (Rotated Core Activities)

These days rotate the main activities (one primary focus per day):

Snorkeling day: Trip on a powerboat to reefs in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Excellent marine life. Bring your own mask and snorkel (full-face not allowed). Fins and PFDs are provided. The Buddy system is required.
Paddling/Mangrove day: Kayaking and/or paddleboarding through mangrove forests. Learn about the ecosystem and environment. Possible eco-education or short hikes.
Sailing day: Full day aboard Sea Base’s catamaran sailboat. Hands-on sailing and time on the water (possible snorkeling).

Some days may include small-boat sailing instruction or other elements. Breakfast/dinner on base; lunches often packed.

Fishing note: Additional fishing may occur if conditions allow.

Last Full Day / Departure Day

Final activity (often fishing, snorkel, or paddling/sailing).

Return to base, clean up, pack, and have breakfast.

Departures typically by mid-morning (no later than 11 am).

Additional Notes

Variability: Schedule is flexible and adapts to conditions. No fixed Key West day or primitive island overnight (those are for other programs).
Meals: Primarily on base. Catches may supplement meals.
Preparation tips: Pass swim test beforehand. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hat, water shoes, quick-dry clothes, personal mask/snorkel, sleeping pad, extension cords. Respect marine life; no touching coral or wildlife.
Fishing boats/gear: 28 ft. class center consoles. Gear provided (familiarize with reels beforehand if possible).