Hang a right at Jamaica, catch the Caribbean wind at Cuba, cross the Stream and head for the center of America’s tropical islands – Marathon.

by Jason Koler 

For adventurers traversing the seas with the wind in their sails, Marathon’s Boot Key Harbor is a tranquil layover that often charms visitors into extending their stay with a myriad of attractions and the genuine hospitality found throughout the Caribbean islands.

Located in the “Heart of the Florida Keys,” Boot Key Harbor is regarded as one of the most well protected ports on the eastern coast. With lush mangroves circling the rim of the harbor and two waterways (Sister’s Creek from the south and the west harbor entrance near the historic 7 Mile Bridge) the harbor has always served as a perfect landing spot for any type of floating vessel.

What was once a Mecca for the commercial fishing industry, the harbor is now dotted with one of the largest mooring fields in the country. In the winter of 2007, Marathon added 162 mooring balls to the field, bringing the grand total to 226!

Just northeast of the marina visitors will find the City of Marathon Community Park. Beautiful tropical landscaping, basketball and tennis courts, picnic areas, baseball diamonds, a skate park and an elevated amphitheater have made the City Park & Marina the perfect venue for community events like the annual Original Marathon Seafood Fest and Pigeon Key Art Festival.

Outside of the park, guests can enjoy a diversity of services and accommodations geared around the marine environment. The Florida Keys are a boater’s and fisherman’s paradise and Marathon is home to many experienced dive captains, fishing guides, and world famous fish sandwiches like the Lobster Rueben.

Marathon is also home to many nationally renowned marine education and rehabilitation facilities including the Dolphin Research Center and the Turtle Hospital – which strive to protect the fragile eco-system of the Keys that is overflowing with vibrant tropical marine life.
The Florida Keys also run parallel to the only living coral reef in North America and have attracted divers and snorkelers to the crystal clear waters for decades.

Since there is only one road leading in and out of the Keys, Marathon is home to a world-class medical facility, Fishermen’s Hospital, a county library, two post offices and a myriad of retail stores where the most unique gifts and arts can be found while re-supplying. 

The harbor is cared for by the residents on the seawall, dock, mooring and hook, and overseen by the City of Marathon’s friendly and accommodating staff. For more information regarding your stay, please contact the City Marina (add phone number), the Chamber of Commerce (add phone number), or tune into the Cruiser’s Net every morning at 9 a.m. (add radio station).

About the 2007/2008 Boot Key Harbor Cruiser's Guide:
Many people and organizations were instrumental in making the Boot Key Harbor Cruiser’s Guide a success. The Staff at the Weekly Newspapers would like to thank Bill Scott, the Cruiser’s Net, Chris Boyle, The City of Marathon, Richard Tanner, Austin DiRenzo and the entire staff at the Marathon City Marina.
Artwork by: Scott Design, Austin DiRenzo, Leigh Trefry & Travis Cready.
Published by The Weekly Newspapers MMVII