Key West weather is phenomenally glorious in the winter months and is the peak of our tourist season. Warm tropical breezes also make it a world-famous sailing destination, and like a pilgrimage, sailboats of all sizes and types come to the tiny island every year. Fly into Key West’s Caribbean-style airport on any day in January and you’ll be treated to a magnificent view from below of the hundreds of sailboats moored and docked in the turquoise waters that surround the island.
During the second week of every January, some of the world’s biggest and best professional sailors come together to compete. Hosted offshore in the Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary, the world-class event attracts champion racers and America’s Cup veterans from around the world. The 25th Anniversary of International Key West Yacht Premier Racing Week is set to kick off in January 2012.
For sailing aficionados, the International Sailing Yacht Regatta Week in January is synonymous with the start of the winter sailing season, and the spirit of the global sailing community is brought to life with this regatta. In Florida, a spirited precursor to the event is the annual Fort Lauderdale to Key West Yacht Race that begins on the Wednesday, ahead of the International Key West Yacht Race’s Saturday start date. An impressive collection of more than 40 sailboats, with their friendly crews, ply the 160-mile course up the coast of South Florida to the historic port of Key West, where many will remain for the seductive week of yacht racing.
Once the regatta begins, spectators are treated to an impressive lineup of J/ Boats. Viewers expect to see J/35 and some new J/11s. Said to have enjoyed growth despite the downturn in the world economy, the J/80 class ships have enjoyed continued strong performance. The race is also hoping to see the Farr 30s, which have a long history in the Premier Racing event, but skipped a year to reorganize in 2011.
The old town and the historic port come alive the second week of January with the international racing event with entertaining activities both on and off the water. Boat racing is usually staged at the old Navy Mole, behind the Truman Annex neighborhood, where it’s possible to get a closer look at these magnificent machines. The historic Key West Seaport, which is also a supporter of the event, plays host to large tents for participants, and the bustling harbor promenade literally comes together with excitement throughout the week. Favorite extracurricular indulgences include fine dining at the island’s amazing restaurants and over-the-top nightlife.
Touring historic neighborhoods with grand Victorian wooden gingerbread houses built by turn-of-the-century boatbuilders in the historic Harbor Quarter is also a big draw. A select number of these homes and estates are available for rent as exclusive vacation rentals and many are used by yacht racing teams and race boat owners. January is a fantastic month to visit Key West, for both sailors and landlubbers.