Experience the ultimate Florida Keys adventure with a stay on our vintage boat, “Reef Dreamer,” nestled at the "Northern Edge" of Key Largo in the Florida Keys, where Ernest Hemingway and Hunter S. Thompson found inspiration. Get cozy and settle into this rustic space. Located at "Hidden Key Marina".
The space
This unique vacation rental offers a cozy, rustic glamping experience on the water—perfect for those seeking a getaway that's equal parts relaxing and adventurous. Relax in the comfortable main salon, enjoy peaceful moments on the deck, and drift off to sleep with the gentle sounds of the ripples of the water and Cuban music in the distance. Perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape or adventurous friends looking for something extraordinary.
As the palm trees sway in the warm tropical breeze, you'll feel the spirit of the island life that once captivated not only Hemingway and Thompson but also legends like Jimmy Buffett, Tennessee Williams, and even local Florida Keys characters who embraced the untamed wilds of the sea.
Channel their free-spirited energy as you explore mangroves by kayak by day and sip rum on the deck at night, surrounded by the same stars that guided countless sailors before you. This is your chance to live like the literary legends and famous wanderers who made the Keys their playground over the past 100 years!
This is a rustic glamping experience on the water. It’s not a luxury hotel, but it’s full of authentic, vintage charm for those seeking a true adventure. Your mindset makes all the difference. Boat life is for laid-back, easygoing, fun-loving adventurers who embrace new experiences & have no problem roughing it a little.
Your home afloat features:
• Sleeping Quarters: A cozy V-berth bed ideal for two adults, with a TV in cabin for late night movies.
• Kitchenette: Equipped with a mini-fridge/freezer, microwave, and coffee maker to start your mornings off right. No cooking on the boat. There is a gas BBQ grill with a side burner 10 feet away from the boat to cook on.
• Salon: The main salon has a comfortable couch and dining table that can double as a work desk. It also features loads of windows for natural light.
• Outdoor Top Deck: Unwind on the sun deck surrounded by the natural beauty of the Keys. It’s a perfect spot to unwind, soak in the sun, and enjoy spectacular views.
While we provide the essentials for comfort, please note this is a rustic experience. The boat is stationary in the marina, and there are no hot/cold showers or toilets on board (however, marina facilities with hot/cold showers, bathrooms and laundry facilities are within 30 feet of where “Reef Dreamer” is docked.
What to Expect
• Authentic Adventure: Living on the water comes with the sounds of the ocean, occasional visits from curious fish, manatees and yes—bugs. Mosquitoes, no see ums and other critters are part of the Keys’ charm. We provide bug spray to help you enjoy the outdoors.
• Rustic Living: This is glamping, not luxury! The boat is clean and well-kept but retains its salty character. You’ll find many nods to era – from vintage Hemingway classics to early Rolling Stone magazines the first owner may have had in his collection. Step back in time while on board! It’s a great themed space.
Facilities
The boat is docked at Hidden Key Marina which offers the essential comforts for your stay:
• Clean Hot Showers: Private and well-maintained facilities just steps from the boat.
• Access to marina fire pit, Barbecue and Lounge chairs: Help yourself to the marina’s amenities.
• Modern Bathrooms: Easily accessible and cleaned regularly for your convenience.
• Parking: One free parking spot is included with your stay,
Enhance Your Stay
• On-the-Water Adventure: Paddle out with the provided kayaks or simply enjoy the tranquil marina setting and toss a line in the water – there are plentiful fish in and around manatee creek. Keep your eyes out for manatee!
• Explore the Area: The marina’s location makes it a great jumping-off point for exploring the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the Florida Keys.
Important to Note
This is a unique boat living experience. To make the most of your stay:
•Expect Nature: Bugs, mosquitoes and no-see-ums are part of the Florida Keys’ charm. We provide bug spray and keep our facilities sprayed, but it’s best to pack a sense of adventure as well.
•Restrooms/Showers - Located 30 feet from Reef Dreamer.
•Mobility: The boat is accessed via steps and handrails, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
•NO FIRE OF ANY KIND ON BOARD. NO FLAME, NO COOKING, NO CANDLES, You could burn the whole thing down, and you’d hate that and so would we. We are VERY serious about this rule.
•Public Marina: Reef Dreamer is docked in a public waterway, so while most nights are cozy and quiet, there are boaters that will pass through and neighbors around you. While the interior of the boat is private space and you are in a private marina, there are neighbors that will also be enjoying their spaces. This is a laid back crowd here and music and other sounds of laughter and joy may be a part of this experience.
•Smells: If you are sensitive to the smell of sea water or other boat smells, an overnight stay on a boat may not be for you
* Also, since we’re in South Florida, our climate is naturally warm and humid, especially if you’re coming from a northern or inland area. At times, the boat may feel humid—this is normal for our coastal environment. To help keep humidity to a minimum and remove moisture from inside the boat, we recommend keeping the windows and doors closed and leaving the air conditioning on during your stay.
🛥️ Thank you for considering our vintage boat for your unique stay!
Here’s what’s included on board:
✿ Full size v-berth bed for two with clean bedding & pillows with one extra blanket.
✿ Cutting board, cups/mugs, plates and cutlery
✿ Hand soap, lotion, dish soap, 4 bath towels, 2 hand towels, 4 face cloths and 2 beach towels.
✿ An extension cord to juice up your phone, laptops and other electronics while on board.
✿ Bluetooth speaker
✿ Curtains on all windows to ensure full privacy
✿ A selection of games and cards
✿ String lights for cozy lighting
✿ First Aid kit & fire extinguisher
If you have any questions about anything, please let us know!
Other things to note
Reservations are 🌧️ Rain or Shine ☀️
❌ Reef Dreamer is not to be started or moved.
❌ No drugs or smoking of any kind allowed inside or on the vessel.
🐶 Furry co-captains are allowed on board.
Enjoy the Experience! ✌🏽
