Sailing Florida Charters
Sailing Florida Charters
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Boat Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours • Boat Rentals • Private Tours
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Departing daily from the Legendary Marriott Renaissance Vinoy Resort built in 1925 and located in downtown St Petersburg, Florida. We have over 27 yachts available for charter, including Power, Sail, and Fishing boats. The yachts include Jeanneau, Catalina, Fountaine Pajot, Sea Ray, Viking, Beneteau, and Hunter yachts. With a wide variety of seaside towns from Tarpon Springs, Sanibel/Captiva, Key West and Dry Tortugas. Visit the West Coast of Florida's secluded anchorages and fine marinas, your captains and crew will enjoy the beautiful white sandy beaches, sparkling blue waters, gentle winds, abundant birds and dolphins.
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Sailing Florida Charters
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
267 reviews
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5
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Donna T
Gaithersburg15 contributions
Jan 2020
Three couples from ONE St Petersburg chartered the 47-foot sailing catamaran, Cerebral Seabatical, for an astonishing journey to Key West. We began by visiting Sailing Florida Charters where we met Jenn, the reservation manager. She answered questions and provided our boating cost estimate and other information. Our meeting was informative and provided similar material that was on the charter company website. Typically designed for 10 days, we accomplished our excursion in 7 days. It was an aggressive schedule. Guided by Captain Neil Treitman, our group met and discussed multiple scenarios prior to departure. Discussions included marina docking, anchoring and provisioning the boat with food, water and adult beverages. We even explored the boat before we contracted for the charter. Captain Neil prepared spreadsheets containing time schedules, motoring time, expected fuel usage, sailing time and marina fees. The trip was well planned and total expenses were as expected. The only item we couldn’t control was the weather. The weather was nearly perfect but on one occasion we motored through some pretty rough seas. The Cerebral Seabatical is a high-end yacht with many extras and is a very pleasant vessel for such a journey. Our crew had some basic knowledge of powerboating and sailing from the Freedom Boat Club and St Petersburg Sailing Center, but we were basically novices. Each crew member had ample opportunity to sit with Captain Neil at the Bridge to observe and learn. And on occasion take control of the boat and launch the sails. But it was entirely Captain Neil navigating through the storm, docking the vessel each night and calmly barking docking commands so we could successfully tie up the catamaran, plug into power and refill the water. This was partly a working expedition and we even had opportunities to fish. We fully provisioned the boat, planned and prepared all meals on the boat, except for one night when we dined at the Crow’s Nest in Venice. An extraordinary journey and the three couples remain as friendly as when we started. We highly recommend Sailing Florida Charters and especially recommend Captain Neil Treitman to lead your next (or first) Catamaran adventure!
Written January 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for such a fantastic review on your trip to Key West. These trips can be an experience of a lifetime. Also a working vacation. We appreciate the kind comments for Jennifer and Captain Neil. Since we are neighbors, will see you again soon.
Written January 22, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bridget Wills
St. Petersburg, FL1 contribution
May 2020
With the blessing of our family, we eloped abord the 45-foot sailing vessel Andiamo with the sun setting over the St. Petersburg skyline. While we had originally planned something much different for our wedding, with the help of Sailing Florida, this remained a very special and memorable day for the two of us.
We began our search for an alternate wedding venue with a visit to Sailing Florida’s website and found their fleet of sailboats and powerboats to be the nicest around. Furthermore, their location at the picturesque Vinoy Marina, in front of the lovely Vinoy Resort, was perfect for pre wedding lodging as well as photo opportunities in the lush resort gardens. A call to Jennifer, Sailing Florida’s reservation manager was very informative and reassured us that they could accommodate us for our wedding day and three-day two-night honeymoon cruise to Longboat Key. Jennifer made the booking process simple and put us in contact with our captain and officiant Neil Treitman to solidify our plans.
From our first call with Captain Neil we knew he was going to do whatever he could to help us meet our needs. Captain Neil was extremely professional and thinking of all the details we needed to pull of this elopement. Prior to our big day he provided us and our florist a tour of the boat, discussed provisioning as well as helped us to address any questions or requests we had along the way. On the big day he was there to coordinate vendors access to the boat and make sure that the flower adorned luxury vessel was sparkling clean before we arrived.
The photos below capture only part of how beautiful our wedding was. Thank you, Sailing Florida and Captain Neil, for helping to make our wedding a day we will never forget. Without reservation we highly recommend Sailing Florida and most especially captain and officiant Neil Treitman to make your wedding on the water a reality.
We began our search for an alternate wedding venue with a visit to Sailing Florida’s website and found their fleet of sailboats and powerboats to be the nicest around. Furthermore, their location at the picturesque Vinoy Marina, in front of the lovely Vinoy Resort, was perfect for pre wedding lodging as well as photo opportunities in the lush resort gardens. A call to Jennifer, Sailing Florida’s reservation manager was very informative and reassured us that they could accommodate us for our wedding day and three-day two-night honeymoon cruise to Longboat Key. Jennifer made the booking process simple and put us in contact with our captain and officiant Neil Treitman to solidify our plans.
From our first call with Captain Neil we knew he was going to do whatever he could to help us meet our needs. Captain Neil was extremely professional and thinking of all the details we needed to pull of this elopement. Prior to our big day he provided us and our florist a tour of the boat, discussed provisioning as well as helped us to address any questions or requests we had along the way. On the big day he was there to coordinate vendors access to the boat and make sure that the flower adorned luxury vessel was sparkling clean before we arrived.
The photos below capture only part of how beautiful our wedding was. Thank you, Sailing Florida and Captain Neil, for helping to make our wedding a day we will never forget. Without reservation we highly recommend Sailing Florida and most especially captain and officiant Neil Treitman to make your wedding on the water a reality.
Written June 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you...thank you for this fabulous review. Sailing Florida Charters is so proud Captain Neil and Jennifer were able to make your special day totally memorable.
The pictures of the yacht showed the true efforts you made to make it a special and unique nautical adventure.
Enjoy all the years ahead.
Written June 19, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bill D
St. Petersburg, FL2 contributions
Mar 2020
I rarely pay attention to glowing reviews. They can be written by anyone, perhaps someone with dishonest intent. And even more rarely do I write a review. But in the case of Sailing Florida I made an exception.
In my mind, the real test of an operator is NOT when everything goes as planned, but how the operator reacts when the plans go wrong. Mistakes can happen.
Four of us booked three ASA sailing classes (101, 103, & 104) with Captain Jim for six days. The first four days went great. Then on the fifth day we were upset when we found out that our boat, the Beverly Isabella, got double booked, and we had to return to the marina to change to the Sea Wolf. We requested a partial refund for the mix-up that cost us an extra day.
Sailing Florida admitted the mistake and gave us our requested partial refund. Kudos to Sailing Florida and Captains Jim and Dave.
As for the ASA classes, captain Jim was a good and patient instructor, The sailing classes were very helpful for both former sailors and novices, and we had a lot of fun. Thanks again, captain Jim.
In my mind, the real test of an operator is NOT when everything goes as planned, but how the operator reacts when the plans go wrong. Mistakes can happen.
Four of us booked three ASA sailing classes (101, 103, & 104) with Captain Jim for six days. The first four days went great. Then on the fifth day we were upset when we found out that our boat, the Beverly Isabella, got double booked, and we had to return to the marina to change to the Sea Wolf. We requested a partial refund for the mix-up that cost us an extra day.
Sailing Florida admitted the mistake and gave us our requested partial refund. Kudos to Sailing Florida and Captains Jim and Dave.
As for the ASA classes, captain Jim was a good and patient instructor, The sailing classes were very helpful for both former sailors and novices, and we had a lot of fun. Thanks again, captain Jim.
Written March 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
We are so glad we were all able to work together to continue your ASA 104 class. The out of state owner of the yacht forgot to reserve his boat. Captain Jim was chosen as an ASA Instructor of the year for the past two years. He is excellent in his teaching abilities.
Hope to see your group again soon on another sailing adventure.
Written March 31, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lynn Watts
2 contributions
Dec 2020
My husband & I began our 50th wedding anniversary with the 1st of 50 celebrations planned for our 50th year...a 3 day, 2 night cruise on the beautiful 44 Cat named Boldly Go. It was perfect! We sailed with Captain Michael Xaiver, who went above and beyond to help make our trip perfect! We sailed to Longboat Key Club Moorings the first day. Beautiful marina! Water was like a pool! Weather gorgeous! Dinner at Portifino Restaurant was more than delicious. Our friends Mark & Gail joined us for day two. Sailing in the Gulf of Mexico was so relaxing! Michael put up the sails & though not much wind, it was just what we needed for the day. We had dinner at another fabulous restaurant Mar Vista, which we will go back to. Michael was able to dock the boat there for dinner--which is pretty special! Another perfect day! Day three, we headed back to St Pete. Weather so warm. Water so smooth. Seeing the other boats on the water & dolphins & beautiful scenery—another perfect day for this celebration (and a bucket list adventure). We left it to him & Captain Michael was excellent in planning our trip us. Every restaurant was 5 star. On board, he was so fun and set the mood for the Christmas season with special music. When we docked back at Vinoy Marina, we were greeted with helping hands of I think at least four Captains to help secure the boat, and then help with the special art of getting me off the boat! We will be calling Sailing Florida Charters and Captain Michael again and can't wait for that next adventure! I know I’ve used the word ‘perfect’ a lot in describing this trip, but I don’t know another perfect word to explain how perfect this trip was. Maybe gloriously perfect? And with COVID, we all stayed safe too. Captain Michael, we can't thank you enough for this perfect trip!
Written December 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
So impressive, a spectacular 50th wedding celebration is a major accomplishment. Sailing Florida Charters and Captain Micheal are so honored we were selected to make your special event so perfect. Looking forward to the next big affair! Enjoy all your special times together.
Written December 20, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MaddenFamily
1 contribution
Mar 2020 • Family
We chartered Squisita (43 ft sail Cat) with Captain Neil from Sailing Florida! We had 6 total (3 kids and 2 parents and a grandmother). Our trip was a 5 day sail from the Vinoy Marina St Pete to Cabbage Key. We overnighted in Venice (each way), Boca Grande, and Cabbage Key. This was an awesome experience for all of us, especially our kids. Also this was during the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic so most people would call us crazy but we felt we were more isolated than most at this time. We ate every meal on the boat. And the vessel was accommodating as far as showers, heads, privacy and hygiene. The weather was awesome. Also the boat was clean and in good shape as far as maintenance.
Neil was very prepared and accommodating as he communicated with us days prior to the trip and made sure we had what we needed as far as provisions. He also pre-prepared ribs, brisket and brought his home made meatballs along so all we had to do was heat up our food when on board. This was a huge hit for us, especially the kids! We did not go hungry by any means. And the angus beef hot dogs were excellent as well. Neil was very laid back and professional which was a great thing because we had 3 high strung boys (9, 6 and 4) and we really would not have done well with a short tempered captain. He was good with kids and families. As people that have been on multi day charters before, we felt safe, happy and healthy the whole time!
Overall we had a blast with this outfit and would recommend using them!
Neil was very prepared and accommodating as he communicated with us days prior to the trip and made sure we had what we needed as far as provisions. He also pre-prepared ribs, brisket and brought his home made meatballs along so all we had to do was heat up our food when on board. This was a huge hit for us, especially the kids! We did not go hungry by any means. And the angus beef hot dogs were excellent as well. Neil was very laid back and professional which was a great thing because we had 3 high strung boys (9, 6 and 4) and we really would not have done well with a short tempered captain. He was good with kids and families. As people that have been on multi day charters before, we felt safe, happy and healthy the whole time!
Overall we had a blast with this outfit and would recommend using them!
Written March 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
We are so pleased you felt safe, happy, and healthy during these tough times. Captain Neil was a perfect fit for your family. Thanks so much for the kind words.
Written March 30, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Alison F
Shippensburg, PA3 contributions
Mar 2020
Everything about my experience was amazing-from the initial booking, to the experience, to the learning and skills I gained in my class. I took both the 103 and 104 sailing courses. The 103 had one other student and the 104 I was all by myself so I goat an incredible experience. For a small, extra fee I stayed on the boat-it was so much cheaper than finding a local hotel or Airbnb and it was really nice-the boats are top class, new, clean, and its always nice to wake up on the water. Captain Joe was the best! Very knowledgeable, patient, and had hundreds of fun stories.
Written May 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Hundreds of fun stories always makes for the the best sailing instruction. So pleased Captain Joe was able to provide such an incredible experience.
Written May 31, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paul Allan S
Houston, TX37 contributions
Nov 2020 • Family
Have to say one of the best family vacations I’ve ever experienced. It’s crazy that it worked out well in a year with the pandemic. It was perfect that it was just my family of 4, Capt. Kevin and his first mate Ms. Justine. We were on a four night cruise from Saint Pete to Venice then to down to Captiva Island, over to Boca Grande, then Bradenton Beach on the way back to St Pete. We got lucky with the weather that we had a nice wind that was pushing off the coast with temperatures in the high 70s in early November. The 42ft Cat (Southern Accent) was like a moving house with all its accommodations you could ever ask for, plenty of room for socializing and it was really nice for my wife and I to have our own side of the boat with a very nice cabin and bath. Capt. Kevin was great and highly skilled sailor that was always double and triple checking things to make sure all was going well. Ms. Justine was great with my young kids and made us the best food. They both were great at teaching my kids about sailing and the boat. I can’t wait until we can set up another trip. We would definitely rebook with Kevin and Justine again!
Written January 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Enjoying a four day sailing adventure is the perfect vacation. We are so pleased Captain Kevin and Justine were able to make your special trip so memorable with your family.
Come visit again, we can make those children future sailors!
Written January 5, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ed W
Tallahassee100 contributions
Oct 2020
My husband and I became block time members a year and a half ago and it’s literally the best money we’ve ever spent. Block time is where you prepay for a block of time, either 12 days or 28 days (we chose the 28 days). There are so many beautiful and beautifully maintained boats to choose from based on our current trip needs. It can be the two of us, our college kids, another couple or ant permutation
The staff and crew are exceptional
We live about 4 hours away so it’s an easy trip for a weekend or we can do an extensive cruise
I truly can’t say enough about quality of fleet, professionalism of staff and value of money
We’re definitely renewing another 28 day block!
The staff and crew are exceptional
We live about 4 hours away so it’s an easy trip for a weekend or we can do an extensive cruise
I truly can’t say enough about quality of fleet, professionalism of staff and value of money
We’re definitely renewing another 28 day block!
Written October 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
We are so pleased you are enjoying your sailing adventures through our Block Time program. I will pass on your kind comments to all the staff.
Fair Winds ahead!
Written October 13, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
scottschleisman
1 contribution
Oct 2020
I had a great time with Captain Edd in my ASA 101 and 103 courses. His extensive sailing experience, practical teaching approach and love for sailing came through each day. He had clever explanations that allowed you to easily recall information and concepts. His commitment to safety was clear. He took advantage of every moment, despite calm and strong winds at times, to show me how much fun sailing can be.
Written November 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
We are so pleased your sailing classes with Captain Edd made your sailing experience so much FUN!
Written November 11, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
nationole
Tampa, FL12 contributions
Jul 2021 • Couples
Booked an overnight sailing charter 6 weeks in advance for a surprise 50th birthday present fir my husband and put down a deposit. I was told the captain would be in touch to plan our itinerary. When i had not heard from the captain 2 weeks before sailing, I reached out. I was told that a captain had not been assigned yet but was assured one would be shortly. after hearing nothing, I reached out again a week prior and was told the same thing. after again hearing nothing, I reached out 4 days prior, and this time, someone from corporate responded and said that a lot of the captains had taken vacation at the same time so they were having trouble finding one but she was sure that they would be able to and would call back the next day. After no call back, I reached out and she told me she was looking into having some captains switch charters and would be back in touch the next day. Again after no return call, and the day before our scheduled departure, i spoke to corporate again and they said that they couldn’t find a captain and would have to cancel. yes…one day before. I planned this 6 weeks in advance, reserved a hotel the night before (too late to cancel), arranged babysitters….all while keeping this a surprise from my husband. I was never told that my reservation was contingent on finding a captain. I do not understand why they even accept the reservation if a captain is not available. and, to wait until the day before, while assuring me all along that one would be assigned, is horrible customer service. Thus, if you book a charter, know that your reservation means nothing.
Written July 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
JMGS
13 contributions
What is the max capacity?
Maven38
Albany, NY22 contributions
If you mean the maximum number of people who can the class(es) at the same time, I do not know as it would depend on the number (and sizes) of boats and instructors available. Ours were 4 students for two of the classes and 5 for the third one plus the instructor. Weather permitting, you go out sailing every day and there is at least one overnight on the boat to practice anchoring. You should contact Sailing Florida directly for availability.