“Life is a journey that’s not measured in miles or years, but in experiences.”
– Jimmy Buffett
Each summer, a modest group of Swim Melbourne Masters swimmers (and friends) head to Key West for the Swim Around Key West. It’s not an official MELB swim club event, but it’s become an awesome tradition.
If you’re thinking about joining the fun, here’s what to know:
🏴☠️🌊 About the Race
This is a 12.5-mile clockwise loop around the island. Now for the part the event website doesn't tell you. This event is right in the thick of tourist season. Expect boat traffic, rogue jet skis, randomly anchored boats, sunburns, stinging critters, seaweed flotillas, mysterious cuts and bruises, and everyone’s favorite: chafing in places you didn’t know could chafe.
- It’s HOT in June. Water temps hover around 92°F (if you're lucky, 88°).
- You'll get a “course map” that’s more impressionist painting than navigational tool.
- Sandbars are real, some will beach your boat, others will beach swimmers.
- You’ll rarely feel on-course, and currents will give you that swimming on a treadmill feel.
But that’s part of the charm. It’s all about teamwork, shared chaos, and stories over post-race beers, like that one-time Steve accidentally aimed for Cuba. 😅
If this still sounds like fun… read on.
🧠 What to Know
- This is a DIY adventure: form your own relay—friends, neighbors, co-workers, lane mates, training partners—cast a wide net! Register, rent a boat, come up with a team name and a theme. That’s right—team suits, costumes, the whole vibe. It’s Key West, after all.
- We do this race swimaroundkeywest.org – sponsored by The College of the Florida Keys. There are two different races, so make sure you pick the right one.
- Swim Melbourne Masters is not organizing or collecting money.
- Want to connect with others doing it? Join the group chat (info below).
- Don’t forget a boat captain, ideally not a swimmer. Although, many swimmers do double duty. If you're not confident at the helm, find someone who is.
Any Florida resident born after Jan 1, 1988 needs a Florida Boating Safety I.D. Card to legally operate a motorized boat in Florida. https://myfwc.com/boating/safety-education/id/
💸 Estimated Costs (Per Relay Team of 2–6)
Boat rental: $350–$1,100.
- Spencer’s Boatyard
701 Palm Ave, Key West
📞 (305) 296-8826 - Beach Weekend Key West
5710 US-1 Key West
📞 (305) 296-0364 - Race entry: ~$170 solo / ~$110 per relay swimmer (varies by team size)
- Hotel food and travel: $$$ to $$$$
📝 Connect with Other Swimmers
- Join the Telegram group chat: Swim Around Key West: Telegram Link
First, download the Telegram app before clicking the link.
If you email saying it doesn't work... I’ll know you skipped this part. 😄
🗓️ Weekend Traditions (Key West -ish Times)
Friday
- 🏊♂️ 2:00 PM-ish – Casual warm-up swim, bring your suit & goggles, deck change in the parking lot, current assisted swim @ Geiger Key Marina Resurant
Arrive early or stay late if you want a bite to eat. The grilled hogfish sandwich is next-level delicious. - 🍻 7:00 PM-ish – Dinner at Schooner Wharf Bar – a true Key West experience!
Saturday – Race Day
- 🚤 7:00 AM-ish – Load boats, gear up, scrub fish smell out of boat cooler, etc
- 🏁 Race Start – Time varies (check race schedule)
- 🐠 Post-race – Optional reef snorkel if time/boats allow
- 🍹 8:00 PM-ish – Victory dinner @ Conch Republic
- 💃 Duval Street – Until you're tired or out of cash
Sunday
- ⛱️ Before checkout – Pack it up and sail on back to reality
❗Just So We're Clear...
Swim Melbourne Masters is not organizing this event. You’re responsible for:
- Travel & lodging
- Race registration
- Boat rental & captain
- All expenses
We’re just here to swim and soak up the Keys. 🌞🐠
