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Experience Key West’s Night Sky on the Astronomer-Guided Stargazing Cruise Aboard Schooner America 2.0 - Key West

Experience Key West’s Night Sky on the Astronomer-Guided Stargazing Cruise Aboard Schooner America 2.0

Key Westeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.75 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels as the cruise is seated with minimal walking.

Overview

Sail Key West's tranquil waters aboard the Schooner America 2.0 for a stargazing experience led by a NASA ambassador. Discover celestial wonders amid serene night skies on this unique 1.75-hour cruise.

Key West, Florida

Astronomer Guided Stargazing Cruise Aboard Schooner America 2.0

$76 | 1.75 hrs

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Adventure Photos

Astronomer Guided Stargazing Cruise Aboard Schooner America 2.0 photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a magical 1.75-hour stargazing adventure aboard the stunning Schooner America 2.0 in Key West. Led by NASA Solar System Ambassador Kevin Gallagher, this unique experience combines tranquil sailing with captivating astronomy insights, all under a breathtaking starlit sky. Don’t miss this limited-time opportunity to explore the cosmos!

Key Points About This Tour:

  • Come and learn about the night’s sky with live narration from a seasoned astronomer during a stargazing program led by NASA Solar System Ambassador and Key West resident, Kevin Gallagher
  • 1.75-hour starlit sailing excursion on Schooner America 2.0
  • Beer, wine, champagne, and cocktails available for purchase
  • Small plates available for purchase

Sail through the Key West waters by starlight on this incredible stargazing sailing adventure aboard one of Key West's most stunning modern sailboats, the 105 ft Schooner America 2.0, featuring live narration by an astronomer!

This special sail is only offered for a limited time every month! Ticket price includes 1.75 hours of sailing and a fully guided stargazing tour of the night’s sky!

Some of the sights on this 1.75 hour sailing adventure include:

  • A beautiful starlit sky over Key West
  • Some serious star-gazing opportunities
  • The mystery and excitement of night time sailing in the beautiful surrounding waters of Key West

Bring your family and/or friends and join our courteous and professional crew for this tranquil- Learn interesting and unique astronomy facts during a 1.75 hour program presented by NASA Solar System Ambassador and Key West resident, Kevin Gallagher.



Meeting Location

  • The Historic Key West Bight (Key West, FL)

FAQ

Do sails sell out frequently?

Sails do sell out. Potential guests are encouraged to check the website or call the week of the date you would like to attend to check availability for public trips and to book as early as possible.

What happens if the sail is sold out?

We are happy to put you on a waitlist. However, space is limited, so we recommend booking as soon as you know you’d like to attend this event!

Is there parking, where? And how much is it?

Parking in Key West is VERY limited. There is a local municipal parking lot at the corner of Caroline Street and Margaret Street in proximity to our ticket booth where you check in! There is also a parking garage within walking distance. Further information will be provided upon purchasing your tickets.

What type of ticket should I buy if I'm bringing a very young child?

All guests in your party must have a General Admission ticket purchased for them.

What exactly do we see on the sail?

Our route is determined by the direction of the wind and up to the discretion of the captain, but on this sail you will enjoy the adventure of a nighttime sail, with great star-gazing opportunities. You may be able to see some attractions along the way, but the focus of this trip is on the starlit night sailing itself!

Is food served during the sails?

Light snacks are available for purchase during the sail.

How about drinks? Should I bring those?

Please do not bring any outside alcohol on board. We are a licensed bar, so any alcohol consumed on the boat must be purchased from Classic Harbor Line. Our Starry Night stargazing sail is fully stocked with beer, wine, champagne, and cocktails, all of which are available for purchase either during the online booking process, or while on board. Soda and water are complimentary throughout the trip.

Is the Schooner America 2.0 safe?

Absolutely. While known for its speed, the Schooner America 2.0 is a safe and gentle vessel. In addition to your captain, there is a minimum of two crew members on every sail to make sure you feel safe and comfortable on the water. We are stocked with beverages, blankets, and life jackets should you feel you need one.

How steady is the sailing? Am I likely to get seasick?

The Schooner America 2.0 is a steady, gentle vessel. It is very rare for our guests to become seasick. While most people do not experience any sea sickness on the schooner, you may want to consider light medication if you normally take it for motion sickness. We cannot officially advise you to take any medication, however.

Is there a bathroom on the boat?

Yes, the boat is equipped with two well-maintained and modern bathrooms located in our below-decks main salon area. This area is accessible by a short flight of stairs. We call our toilets "heads," but they are very much like the bathroom you have at home. The Captain will give directions on their use during the safety speech at the beginning of the trip.

Can I stow anything (eg, my luggage) during the sail?

There is an area below deck where you may store your belongings. Please keep in mind that this area is not guarded, so we cannot take responsibility for any broken, lost, or missing items.

What should I wear?

For our Starry Night sail, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing and footwear (high heels are not recommended). Feel free to come in light, casual clothing, but bring a light jacket just in case, especially since we'll be out on the water in the evening!

Where does the sail finish?

All our sails begin and end at the same location, Schooner Wharf Bar in the Historic Key West Bight.

Can I get a refund or reschedule my tickets after buying them?

Tickets may be rescheduled or refunded up to 72 hours in advance of the departure date. You may also add a 8% "Trip Cancellation Protection" fee during the online booking process which allows you to reschedule or refund your tickets (less taxes and fees) up to 1 hour in advance of your departure.

Do you ever cancel sails due to bad weather?

Weather in Key West is very moderate during the winter months. However, we will cancel a trip is in the event of severe or unsafe weather conditions. Our captains closely monitor the weather on days when inclement weather is possible. Cancellations are made on the day of the sail, by the Captain, up to 1 hour prior to sail time. If you have purchased tickets for a sail that is canceled, we will gladly reschedule your tickets, issue a full refund, or issue credit towards a future sail with us.

What happens if it starts raining when we're out on our sail?

Due to the nature of this event, rain will likely result in the vessel returning to the dock.

Is gratuity included in the price of the sail?

Gratuity is not included in the price of the sail. It is customary to show your crew appreciation for their hard work with cash tips following the trip. If you prefer, you may also add a gratuity during the booking process.

Is the schooner wheelchair accessible?

No, unfortunately the schooner is not wheelchair-accessible.

Can I book a private charter sail?

Yes, private charter sails on the Schooner America 2.0 can be a unique and elegant event for your group. If you are interested in booking a private sail, please contact us by clicking the "Contact SailKeyWest" link.

Can I get married aboard America 2.0 in Key West?

Yes. All of our captains are licensed to perform marriage ceremonies aboard the America 2.0. For further details and arrangements, please click on the "Contact SailKeyWest" link.

Are gift certificates available for this sail?

Yes, we offer gift certificates which make perfect gifts for holidays, birthdays or any other occasion! To purchase a gift certificate for this sail, please click on the "Gift Certificates: Purchase" link in the box above.


Policies

Refund/Rescheduling Policy

Tickets may be rescheduled or refunded up to 72 hours in advance of the departure date. You may also add "Trip Cancellation Protection" during the booking process which allows you to reschedule or refund your tickets (less taxes and fees) up to 1 hour in advance of your departure for an added fee.

Other Policies Activity may be cancelled due to weather. The seller may cancel the activity up to an hour before the start time in the event of severe or unsafe weather conditions. If the seller cancels the event, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule tickets (subject to availability), receive credit for a future event, or receive a full refund.


About Classic Harbor Line

Classic Harbor Line operates the 105-foot Schooner America 2.0 to Key West, FL for the winter months of November through April. In the summer months, you can find her at Chelsea Piers in New York City. This 105 foot sailboat, certified for 85, was designed and built by the same boat-builders who crafted Key West's former pride, Schooner AMERICA. Scarano Boat Building of Albany has also crafted all the vessels in the famed Classic Harbor Line fleet, which operate in Boston, MA, Newport, RI, and New York, NY.

Classic Harbor Line is well known for their outstanding captains and crew and standard of hospitality. Whether you sail with them in Newport, Boston, New York, or Key West, guests are known to not only rave about the beauty and maintenance of the boats, but about the lasting warm impressions that their hosts provide. Guests are treated with the utmost respect and care, beverages are cold and the vessels sail like a dream!

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Check-In

Arrive at least 15–30 minutes early at the ticket booth near Historic Key West Bight to ensure timely boarding.

Dress in Layers

Evenings on the water can get cool—bring a light jacket or sweater to stay comfortable.

Motion Sickness Precautions

Though the schooner is steady, consider light motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness.

Bring a Camera with Manual Settings

Capture the stars and sailboat by adjusting exposure for night photography; smartphone night modes may not suffice.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins
  • Night-herons

History

Key West's maritime history and strong ties to naval exploration enhance the authenticity of a nautical stargazing adventure.

Conservation

The tour adheres to sustainable boating practices, minimizing light pollution and protecting marine life in the sensitive Florida Keys ecosystem.

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Adventure Hotspots in Key West

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Light Jacket

Essential

Keeps you warm during cooler evenings on the water.

fall specific

Binoculars with Night Vision Optional

Enhances your ability to view distant stars and planets.

Closed-Toe Shoes

Essential

Provides safe footing on the boat’s deck.

Camera with Manual Controls

Essential for capturing crisp night sky photos in low light.