To all of the Key West brides out there, whether local or planning a destination wedding, have we got a treat for you! We are so excited to introduce you to one of the most unique Florida Keys wedding venuesaround: Classic Harbor Line‘s Schooner America 2.0 in Key West. The gorgeous vessel is a venue ON the water! While we are completely head-over-heels in love with all of the beach wedding venues in Key West, we love the romance of having your wedding on an iconic vessel like the Schooner America 2.0.

If it’s been a childhood dream, or simply a recent fantasy, to have your wedding on the ocean with the wind in your hair, then this iconic vessel is perfect for you! They love hosting intimate weddings for up to 70 guests, and even provide champagne for a sunset toast. (Swoon). We asked Sunny, the General Manager, all about Classic Harbor Line, and he filled us in on what is truly unique about this Key West wedding venue.

Sunny Andracchio is the General Manager of the iconic Schooner America 2.0, and he loves nothing more than sailing around Key West – and of course hosting amazing Key West weddings on it. If you’re throwing around the idea of having an intimate Key West wedding on the ocean, then you must read further! Sunny absolutely loves what he does, and his passion shines through as he gushes about his gorgeous vessel.

How long has Classic Harbor Line been hosting beautiful Key West weddings?

“I have been with Classic Harbor Line for 6 seasons. Classic Harbor Line started up operation in Key West in 2008. We have actually operated multiple classic vessels in this location. Our first season was Schooner Adirondack II, an 80-foot sailing vessel. Then we had Schooner Adirondack III, also an 80-foot schooner. Now we operate the classic Schooner America 2.0. It is a replica of the original Schooner America that won the America’s cup race back in 1851. This particular vessel is a special one, stretching to 105 feet long with over 3600 square feet of sail. She effortlessly glides through the water. Our season is November through May with America 2.0.”

What do you love about your unique Key West wedding venue?

“We love to sail. Being on the water is a way of life. Once you step aboard this vessel it is like you are transported into a magical experience that you will never forget. When everything is working together – the wind and water and the vessel – it is almost as if you can feel yourself dancing with the universe. “

What is the ideal size of a wedding on Schooner America 2.0?

“The Coast Guard rated capacity for the Schooner America is 75. We generally like to keep the capacity at 70, but it would be comfortable for a private charter for just 2 persons, or for a Key West wedding up to that number (70). As you can see, she’s a very larger schooner: 105 feet long and built for speed and comfort. There is plenty of seating space and the heads are exceptionally clean.”What are the most special aspects of planning a Key West wedding on Classic Harbor Line‘s America 2.0?

“You won’t be disappointed. Our Captain and Crew are very hospitable and service oriented. They will be sailing the vessel and taking care of you with such ease making you feel as if it were your own. They put their heart and soul into maintaining the vessel, which is something you will immediately see when you board the vessel. Of course safety is a very important aspect to our sails as they are well trained. Couples can book with confidence that when the 3600 square feet of sails are unfurled, the only thoughts they need have is ‘WOW’ and ‘Magnificent!'”

Why do brides choose Classic Harbor Line as their Key West wedding venue?

“For many it’s a childhood dream (to have a wedding on the ocean). Last December that was the case for the ceremony of Michael and Rasa. She wanted to be married on the water since she was a little girl. There is also a sense of adventure. The lure and and magic of the ocean is very seductive and romantic. It’s also the very best way to experience the sunset. There are no obstructions and you don’t have to struggle to get a view! There is a serenity on the water that can’t be matched on land. There is just something very unique and special about being on the water on this vessel.”

What would you give to the bride who is searching for her dram wedding venue in Key West?

“If you are looking for a unique, elegant way to entertain your guests, you will be absolutely in awe of the Schooner America 2.0. You really get a sailing experience and you just cant go wrong. We are also very reasonable when it comes to the price of our Charters. Just $3,000 for a 2-hour day sail or $4,400 for a 2-hour sunset sail. (Please add 7.5% Florida tax and 15% crew gratuity to the contract.) Beer, wine, champagne, and soft drinks are included.”

Any last thoughts for the excited Key West bride and groom?

“Marriage is a unique adventure, why not begin yours on the high seas aboard a world class sailing vessel like Schooner America 2.0?”

Here is a comment from a couple who was recently married on Schooner America 2.0 on March 13, 2014, and they really sum up why getting married on the water is magical and memorable.

“I can’t describe how perfect our ceremony turned out. Everyone is still talking about and will for years to come. It was not only a great memory for Amanda and I but our guests as well. [The] staff took such great care of us. It truly was perfect. – Dominic.”

We loved getting to know the team out at Classic Harbor Line, and we hope you loved reading about this unique wedding venue in Key West. This beautiful slice of paradise is full of romantic and intimate wedding venues, but we think that Classic Harbor Line couldn’t be more ideal for the bride & groom looking for something a little different, and an experience they – and their guests! – will forever cherish.

Happy planning!