The Route: Florida’s East Coast & The Keys

The Great Loop (Winter)
Written By Alison Major

We're excited to spend some time in the Florida Keys, surrounding areas, and the Bahamas during the winter months.

The remote Dry Tortugas National Park is almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West. This 100-square-mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands. The park is known worldwide as the home of Fort Jefferson, panoramic blue waters, coral reefs and marine life, and an extensive assortment of bird life. This park is accessible only by boat or seaplane; if the weather cooperates, we hope to adventure to this area while nearby.

As we make our way up the East Coast of Florida (and during our time in the Bahamas), we'll look for the many cruise ships coming and going from the area. As we skirt in and around the ICW, we'll also experience high pleasure boat traffic on the weekends. The water traffic may lead us to travel on some weekdays so that we can dock on the weekends and explore.

Alison Major

Alison Major is an author, experienced sailor, and the founder of Loop Life Academy, dedicated to helping families navigate the adventures of America’s Great Loop. With over a decade of remote work experience leading international technology and software engineering teams, she brings her expertise to the nautical world.

Alison lives full-time aboard a 2005 Beneteau 423, SV Fika, with her husband, Chris, and their two children. She has sailed over 7,000 nautical miles. She writes about remote work, cruising, and family life aboard, sharing practical insights for those embracing a nomadic lifestyle. Her most recent book is Remote Work Afloat. An educator and lifelong learner, she teaches Software Architecture to graduate students and mentors cruisers, providing guidance on life's technical and logistical aspects on the water.

https://looplifeacademy.com
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