A Typical Itinerary for Sea Base Florida Keys Adventure Sailing (KS)

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!

Also be sure to see

Sea Base, Islamorada, Keys Adventure Sailing (KS)

This is a Sunday to Friday 5 nights, 6 days adventure based in Islamorada base camp. It features:

3 days of live-aboard sailing/snorkeling/fishing at sea plus
land-based activities including snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, small boat sailing, and a visit to historic Indian Key, a state park island.

The program is modeled after the popular Keys Adventure and is highly weather- and tide-dependent., 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,

Clearing the intinerary confusion.

As any Scout parent knows the BSA is not known for clear easy to understand communication. That is definitely true with this itinerary. There's still some old information old videos on the Internet and things are constantly changing. But having said that, t

Which days are on boat vs. on land - As shown in the intinerary below, you will typically camp first, then go on the boat on days 4-6 and dock, clean the boat and leave on day 6. But it can be and frequently is done in the reverse order, some who called Seabase, said they were told it depends on the boats so it could be either way. Unlike summer camp, they rotate arrivals and departure on a daily basis. Follow the guide and email the director if you have your crew specific questions.
See:
- Sea First, Land Second Itinerary
- Land First, Sea Second Itinerary
Luau? - There is typically now no Luau for the Scouts. They said the boat captains would have something “special” planned for the last night on the sailboat since the crew wouldn’t get to participate in the Luau, but there was nothing “special” planned. It was no different than the first night on the boat. They do usually have a challenge night.
Boat nights: You do whatever you want to do as a crew on the boat at night. Play cards, listen to music, read a (gasp) book..

Sea First, Land Second - Typical Keys Adventure Sailing (KS) Itinerary

Arrival Day

Plan to arrive at Florida Sea Base in Islamorada between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.

After checking in, your crew will receive a tour of the facilities, medical paperwork will be verified, and you will be assigned to one of the air-conditioned eco tents. The eco tents have bunk beds with twin mattresses, electricity, and air conditioning.

Your crew will participate in an orientation covering safety, snorkeling procedures, Leave No Trace, and what to expect during the week. Depending on the schedule and available time, the afternoon activities typically include snorkeling skills, paddleboarding, kayaking, or other waterfront activities.

Many boats depart right away, but if not, dinner is served on base followed by the evening flags ceremony and an orientation program.

Accommodations

Nights 1–3 (or arrival through early days): Often aboard the sailboat (sleep on deck or below; anchor watch and galley duty required).
Nights 3–5: Glamping tents or eco tents with bunk beds and air conditioning on base.

NOTE: Sometimes the schedule is reversed (at sea first, then on land)!

Tents have bunk beds (thin mattresses, so bring a thick air mattress or pad). Linens not provided. Shared facilities on base.

Keys Adventure Sailing (KS) Sea FIRST Itinerary

Arrival Day

Arrive 1:00–3:00 PM (earlier in winter).
Paperwork check-in, gear shakedown, swim/snorkel review.
Crews often board the vessel the night of arrival.
Dinner on base or aboard, orientation, lights out.

Days 1 to 3: Live-Aboard Sailing Adventure

Board sailboat (typically the night of arrival or early Day 1). Enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and fishing in the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
Crews participate in sailing the boat, galley duty, and anchor watch.
Snorkel reefs, fish (gear provided), and explore by sail.
Return to dock around 3:00 PM on Day 3. Dinner on base that evening.

Days 4 to 5: Land-Based Activities

Stay in tents on base. Activities include:

Scenic kayaking and paddleboarding from base in Islamorada.
Snorkel trip aboard a larger power boat (e.g., ~46 ft. Newton dive boat).
Small boat sailing instruction.
Trip to historic Indian Key, a state park island (water-access only) for history and exploration.
UPDATE for 2026: I'm told, "Indian Key Historic State Park is temporarily closed to the public. The island is undergoing major construction and environmental restoration, meaning visitors are not permitted to step onto the island"
A typical report is:
"Day 4 was a full day was snorkeling, and tone of small boat sailing). Then evening/afternoons of kayaking, paddle boarding, and a luau our final night.
Day 5 we boarded a sail boat and stayed aboard for two and a half days (two nights). Captains often (but not always) let Scouts determine itinerary: Since we wanted to snorkel, fish, and sail, we did.
The duty roster may impact how much of each activity an individual may get to do - For example: you may have to cook dinner while others get to fish at anchor."

Evenings may include programs or free time. Breakfast and dinner on base; lunches packed.

The last night is a luau. They will also have a branding station, so if you want to get your favorite cup/bottle branded with the sea base logo make sure to bring it.

Departure Day

Breakfast on base. Clean up, final checkout, and depart (typically by 10:00–11:00 AM).

Additional Notes

Variability: Float plan changes with weather/tides/crew ability. Focus on hands-on sailing, snorkeling reefs, and fishing.
Meals: Galley duty aboard the boat; base meals otherwise. Fishing catches may supplement.
Preparation tips: Bring own mask/snorkel (full-face not allowed), reef-safe sunscreen, quick-dry clothes, sleeping pad, extension cords for base. Fishing license for 16+. Learn basic sailing/knot skills beforehand.
Fishing/Sailing: Gear provided. Crews help sail the vessel. Anchor watch and chores required aboard.

What are specific sailing knot requirements Compare Islamorada sailing to Key West Add pricing details to the itinerary That is VERY wrong, the guide says: Keys Adventure Sailing participants will enjoy their adventure in the most diverse ecosystem in North America. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is home to thousands of underwater species including dolphins, sea turtles, fish and Florida’s Coral Reef. This adventure begins with days snorkeling, kayaking, and learning about sailing. During the first part of this adventure, crews will be housed in our glamping-style tents with bunk beds and air conditioning. On day 4 of the adventure, crews will embark on their adventure at sea. During this portion of the adventure, crews will sail, snorkel and fish in the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys. Below you will find an overview of your week at Sea Base. Please note that the program is dictated by weather, tides and the ability of the crew. Your float plan can vary, sometimes widely, due to these factors. Location: 73800 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 Crew Size: 6- 8 individuals. This number includes both youth and adult participants. Due to US Coast Guard Regulations crews may not exceed the maximum number allowed. Length of Adventure: 5 nights, 6 days including arrival and departureand see the attached tentative schedule.

Land First, Keys Adventure Sailing (KS) Itinerary

Program Overview It begins with land-based activities (snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, small boat sailing, and learning about sailing) while staying in glamping-style tents. On Day 4, crews embark on a multi-day live-aboard sailing adventure (sail, snorkel, and fish). The program is highly weather-, tide-, and crew-ability dependent. Location: 73800 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036.

Accommodations

Early nights (1–3): The guide saysd "Glamping-style tents" (but everyone reports stayiong in dorm buildings) with bunk beds and air conditioning on base.
Sailing portion (Days 4+): Aboard the sailboat (sleep on deck or below; participate in anchor watch and galley duty).

Tents have bunk beds (thin mattresses recommended to bring a thick air mattress or pad). Linens not provided. Shared facilities on base.

Arrival Day (Day 1)

Check-in: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM. Paperwork review, gear shakedown, swim/snorkel review. Orientation and evening program. Dinner on base.

Days 2 and 3 (Land-Based)

Mornings and afternoons feature rotating activities such as:

Snorkeling
Kayaking and paddleboarding
Small boat sailing instruction
Trip to historic Indian Key, a state park island (water-access only) for history and exploration.
UPDATE for 2026: I'm told, "Indian Key Historic State Park is temporarily closed to the public. The island is undergoing major construction and environmental restoration, meaning visitors are not permitted to step onto the island"
A typical report is:
"Day 2 was a full day was snorkeling, and tone of small boat sailing). Then evening/afternoons of kayaking, paddle boarding, and a luau our final night.
Day 3 we boarded a sail boat and stayed aboard for two and a half days (two nights). Captains often (but not always) let Scouts determine itinerary: Since we wanted to snorkel, fish, and sail, we did.
The duty roster may impact how much of each activity an individual may get to do - For example: you may have to cook dinner while others get to fish at anchor."

Breakfast and dinner on base; lunches packed or on site. Evening programs.

Day Four (Transition to Sea)

Assigned cleaning, board sailboat by ~10:30 AM. Begin sailing, fishing, and snorkeling at sea. Meals aboard.

A typical day at sea includes several of the following:

Snorkeling coral reefs
Snorkeling patch reefs
Exploring mangrove islands
Trolling for fish while traveling
Learning boat handling and navigation
Helping with meal preparation
Swimming from the anchored boat

The captain chooses destinations based upon weather, wind, sea conditions, and reef conditions. No two crews have exactly the same itinerary.

Lunch and dinner are prepared by the crew aboard the boat.

Everyone shares cooking, cleaning, and galley duties throughout the trip.

After dinner, many crews enjoy spectacular sunsets, stargazing, and relaxing on deck before sleeping aboard.

Days 5

Continue sailing, fishing, and snorkeling aboard the vessel.

Day 6, Departure Day

The boat normally returns to Sea Base between approximately 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM. Breakfast on boat possible.

Before leaving the boat, everyone participates in a thorough cleaning of the vessel. This includes cleaning the galley, head, sleeping areas, deck, and removing all trash.

Once the boat has passed inspection, crews unload their gear, shower if desired, purchase souvenirs from the Ship Store, and prepare for departure.

All crews should plan to depart Sea Base no later than 11:00 AM..

Additional Notes

Variability: The tentative schedule and float plan can vary widely due to weather, tides, and crew. The overview above follows typical patterns from the guide.
Meals: Base meals early; galley duty and meals aboard the sailboat during the sea portion.
Preparation tips: Bring your own mask and snorkel (full-face not allowed), reef-safe mineral sunscreen, quick-dry clothes, sleeping pad, and personal items for the boat. Fishing license for on land or dock fishing is required for ages 16+. Participate fully in boat operations.

Keys Adventure Sailing (KS) Notes

Reality Check: Although this is called "Keys Adventure Sailing," many recent participants report that actual sailing time depends entirely on the wind. During the summer, calm conditions are common, so expect a combination of sailing and motoring. The snorkeling, fishing, and overall boating experience are generally considered the highlights of the trek rather than continuous sailing.

Things Participants Frequently Mention

Many people choose to sleep on deck nearly every night at sea because of the cool breeze and incredible star-filled skies.
A lightweight inflatable sleeping pad or backpacking air mattress makes sleeping on deck much more comfortable.
Fishing is usually done by trolling while traveling between destinations rather than spending hours anchored specifically to fish.
Bring a deck of cards, book, Kindle, or similar entertainment. There can be periods of relaxing while underway.
The itinerary changes frequently because weather, wind, tides, and sea conditions determine where boats can safely travel.
Everyone participates in cooking, cleaning, washing dishes, and helping operate the boat.
The snorkeling is consistently rated as one of the best parts of the entire adventure.
Don't expect to sail every hour of every day. Summer winds are often light, so engines are commonly used to keep the schedule on track.

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.
Meals: Primarily on boat. 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).