Terra Nova Trading Key West 2003

Campaigning one's boat - no matter how small - for a full week in the southernmost point in the United States is not an inexpensive proposition. However, the perception that one has to have a maxi-boat budget to enjoy one of the ultimate experiences in sailboat racing, is dispelled by the boat owners who have been sharing their ideas with us over the years.

The majority makeup of the Key West fleet is not 70 foot sleds, Farr 40s and IMS 50 footers who may stay in 5-star hotels and fly first class. Over 60% of the 321 boat fleet in 2002 had an LOA of 30 feet or less with 112 of these boats under 27 feet in length. These one design and PHRF classes feature some of the most competitive racing in Key West, and at the risk of stating the obvious, a smaller boat translates into fewer crew and proportionally less expenses across the board.

How does the boat owner on a budget make this alluring event part of his or her racing calendar? Start by thinking out of the box.

2002 first timer, Jeff Bright, a 36-year old flight instructor from Pensacola FL, recruited other J/29 owners he normally races against to pool resources and make the regatta affordable. Racing with crew and or fellow owners willing to share expenses is a common and effective angle for Key West owners.

Tips from the Accommodations Center:

Believe it or not it is possible… Here are some different ways to accommodate your crew for Key West as affordably as possible.

A Crew of 4 can stay at the luxurious Sheraton Suites for $368 per person including taxes for a week. The accommodations will include a one-bedroom suite with microwave, small fridge and wet bar area. 4 beds including a roll-away. This price will also include free transportation back and to from Old Town Key West.

A Crew of 6 can stay at the 1800 Atlantic Condominiums for $396 per person. This will include a 2 bedroom 2-bath fully equipped condominium with a Full Kitchen. The Kitchen is such a benefit when trying to keep costs down, as you can cook in and make lunches to take with you. Eating out all the time for a team can get expensive.

If you like the convenience of Old Town why not choose one of our Charming Bed & Breakfasts. For example you can accommodate a crew of up to 6 at the Cypress House just 1 block from the Tent for as little as $365 per person for two rooms that share a bathroom. All Rooms have small refrigerators so you can keep snacks cool. You can start the day with a Continental Breakfast and end it with their social hour all included in the price.

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Key West regular Kerry Klingler and his J/80 crew keep expenses down by seeking lower priced hotels near Stock Island where his boat is moored. "All we need is a place to sleep - it doesn't have to be fancy." After all, the island is only 3 miles long so Race Headquarters and the Duval Street nightlife are always within striking distance.

Bruce Bingman, a Mumm 30 owner from Annapolis, Maryland has carefully worked out Key West trailering specifics and his recommendations include borrowing a trailer, ensuring permits are in order to avoid surprise fines, and even tucking a few cases of low cost beverages and supplies in the boat ahead of time.

We all miss the airfare bargains of the past, but there are still ways to save here. Travel bureaus and online services are eager to help you find a good deal. A round trip flight from anywhere in the U.S. to Miami, Ft Lauderdale or Ft Myers is substantially cheaper than one that includes the connector to Key West. Your crew can get an inexpensive car rental to and from Key West and save significant airfare - the layover and flight time nearly add up to the drive time (3-1/2 hour drive from Miami). Bicycles and scooters are primary means of transport for many sailors in Key West.

Accommodation services work with every budget and Key West has a wider variety of options and prices than many imagine. Additionally, many of the event's host hotels offer discount room rates. As an example, a crew of four can stay at the Official Hotel, the luxurious Sheraton Suites for $368 per person including taxes for a week. The accommodations include a one-bedroom suite with microwave, small fridge and wet bar area. There are 4 beds including a roll-away, and free transportation to and from Old Town Key West. Seek accommodations within walking distance or which offer a complementary shuttle. (Speaking of complementary - don't forget the places that offer breakfasts). The adventurous seek out the local campgrounds.

More and more, there are crews willing to share in the costs of a Key West campaign. Lunches and a special team dinner during the week and then "on your own" works for many owners. Groceries and eateries with reasonable prices are easy to find.

The event web site crew board fills up with people looking to crew and willing to share expenses. Some even offer to share their local homes or accommodations. Be sure to check it out.

Some one design classes make arrangements for package deals at Marinas or for boat services. Negotiate a group deal for your class or entries from your local area. The Truman Annex Navy Basin offers inner seawall space at very reasonable prices.

Please send us your experiences and tips and we'll post them as well.

And one more thing..... enter before December 11 and save the late fee.