Nature Retreat Sailboat Escape

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House boat

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Very good

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 22.8 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available

Explore the area

Key Largo, FL

Baker's Cay Resort Beach

1 min walk

Bluefin Rock Harbor Marina

3 min drive

Pigeon Key

4 min drive

Ocean Reef Club, FL (OCA)

38 min drive

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Quarter Bed

2 Single Beds

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Outdoor shower

Spaces

Outdoor shower

Dining Area

About this property

PLEASE READ!

The Salty Conch is a 30ft monohull sailboat that was brought to Key Largo after sailing the Atlantic Ocean twice. This is a truly and lovely adventure for people who loves nature and falling asleep watching the stars. The sailboat is moored in the ocean surrounded by nature and wildlife. As soon as you park your car, the motorized dinghy will be waiting for you to use at the dock. A 10 minute ride through the ocean will take you to the sailboat. A little bit of agility is required for your stay: to use the dinghy and moving around the sailboat.

. 2 single kayaks will be waiting for you to enjoy and connect with nature, discover the island of Rodriguez Key and the Sandbar. Courtesy snacks and speakers will set you up for a relaxing vibe over the water. Manatees and dolphins share the ocean with us too.
A cooler, a grill and a little stove are there for cooking options. Italian press is provided for breakfast. The sailboat is powered with solar energy making it possible to have fresh water, light, fans.
Reception is good but there is no Wi Fi in the sailboat. USB charger available. not possible to plug anything that is not 12v.

This is not a fancy stay. It is more like glamping over the water. Linens and towels are fresh and good quality.
The sailboat is powered by solar energy only and has a fresh water capacity of 60 gallons.

Turn off your phone and relax but, if you're staying over 3 nights it is important to keep phone charged to communicate your needs with me.

A 2hp dinghy is provided for you to move back and fourth from the sailboat. If you don't feel like cooking, there are many restaurants around the area.

You will receive an email from me with several location pins of cool spots to explore, and instructions of how to use the dinghy and how to operate everything inside the sailboat.

Come and discover the Salty Conch Sailboat! ****No refund for bad weather or high winds. rescheduling available****

Isidora.

Property manager

Isidora kind

Languages

English, Spanish

Amenities

Parking available

Similar properties

Kitchen

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Parking available

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 21

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed, service animals permitted

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Leave the lights, fans and water pump switch off every time you leave the boat

Leave main door and hatch closed after your stay or as needed (is very possible sun is shining and 5 minutes later is pouring raining)

The white towels Are only for bathing. Not for cleaning purposes. The bad use of them would be charged

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated that there is no smoke detector on the property

About the area

Key Largo

Located on the waterfront, this houseboat is in Wynken Blynken and Nod, a neighbourhood in Key Largo. Bluefin Rock Harbor Marina and Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Jacob's Aquatic Center. MarineLab Undersea Laboratory and Key Largo Hammocks State Botanical Site are also worth visiting. With kayaking, scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, you'll find plenty of adventures in the water.

Key Largo, FL

What's nearby

Baker's Cay Resort Beach - 1 min walk
Bluefin Rock Harbor Marina - 3 min drive
Pigeon Key - 4 min drive
Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill - 5 min drive
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park - 12 min drive

Getting around

Miami International Airport (MIA) - 75 min drive

Restaurants

‪McDonald's - ‬8 min drive
‪Sharkey's Pub & Galley Restaurant - ‬7 min drive
‪Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory - ‬7 min drive
‪Starbucks - ‬6 min drive
‪Snappers - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Nature Retreat Sailboat Escape pet-friendly?

No, only service animals are welcome at the property.

What time is check-in at Nature Retreat Sailboat Escape?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Nature Retreat Sailboat Escape?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Nature Retreat Sailboat Escape located?

Located in Wynken Blynken and Nod, this houseboat is 1.7 mi (2.8 km) from Bluefin Rock Harbor Marina and 1.9 mi (3.1 km) from Pigeon Key. North Nest Key and Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill are also within 6 miles (10 km).

8.4

Very good

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

8.6/10

Cleanliness

5.0/10

Amenities

2.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.6/10

Check-in

8.8/10

Communication

9.2/10

Location

8.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Deborah T.

20 Aug 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

German c.

19 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

AMAZING GETAWAY

I have no words to describe how awesome this was. everything from the dinghy ride takes you to feel like you are going to your own island in paradise. We had the luck that the water was crystal Clear during out stay. We saw a pod of dolphins manta rays everything on our ride to the dock to the sailboat. Once you are there you can tan and jump in the water. in the evening we saw the most beautiful sunset omg it was stunning. We had wine at Night and fell asleep to the stars. the bed was comfy. it is a small space but we made it work well. At the next morning the sunrise was even more spectacular. We watched the sunset and then slept tilll 10 because the breeze was so relaxing. Isidora was an amazing host. she was friendly and polite. recommend to everyone that wasn't to have an experience outside the box. We are definitly come back for more adventure next year!

Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrea M.

29 Apr 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome Adventure

This adventure takes a little preparing. Bring a good amount of drinking water and easy to prepare foods. We stayed 2 nights in Jan. Weather was nice. Swimsuits during the day and a little chilly in the evening. Surprisingly it was so easy to fall asleep rocking on the waves. I toally could have stayed one more night of peace and quiet.

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

12 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique Weekend Sailboat Experience: Camping Vibes, Florida Heat, and Doggie Welcome

recently had a unique weekend sailboat experience that had a camping-like feel. The friendliness of the dog on board added to the enjoyment, although the lack of air conditioning in the Florida heat made it uncomfortable, especially for our dog. We discovered early on that there were no showers on the boat. To make the trip more convenient, I recommend bringing sandwiches, snacks, and a bag of ice. The 20-minute dingy ride to our destination was tiring, and returning for more ice was out of the question we didn't want to be stranded in the dark. Overpacking was unnecessary as we spent the entire time in our bathing suits due to the heat. Despite these challenges, with some adjustments and planning, it was an enjoyable adventure. I should also mention that the property owner was very professional and checked up on us by phone, which was appreciated. :)

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Diane Q.

2 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Salty Conch at Rodriguez Key

The boat was dated but well maintained. 99% of our questions or concerns were responded to and rectified promptly. The host was accessible and kind. This was an experience that we will remember forever. Its wonderful and a lot of work akin to camping but on the water. I highly recommend this to anyone who is looking for something outside the box.

Stayed 6 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

11 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect one night sleeping at sea

We had a beautiful afternoon and evening on the boat. We took the kayaks to the nearby key to explore and then cooked dinner on the grill. Takes a little getting used to sleeping on a boat with different sounds but we enjoyed our stay. The lovely gift basket of snacks was awesome as well!

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Boris M.

2 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Adventure on the Sea :D

The Salty Conch is more than just a sailboat. It's an experience that transports you away from the noise and hustle of everyday life and immerses you in the peaceful embrace of nature. I recently spent a night aboard the Salty Conch sailboat and it was an experience that will stay with me forever. As soon as I parked my car, I was greeted by the motorized dinghy that would take me on a 15-minute ride through the ocean to the sailboat As I boarded the Salty Conch, I was struck by the simplicity and elegance of the vessel. The natural wood finishes and the gentle sway of the boat immediately put me at ease. I highly recommend it and loved the memories

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kirby D.

14 Apr 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great view

Watching the stars was great. Kayaks were fun. Moon setting on the gulf was awesome. No issues with dingy. The only problem was the bed pad was not very comfortable. We both woke up with a stiff back.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

JACKIE K., Monroe

12 Apr 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our little boat for 2 days

We had an amazing time. Learning new things and enjoying the cooking. The sunsets were amazing. We had dolphins both nights. We went around in the canoes in the dinghy worked great. Just need some tools to cook with more for the BBQ. Thank you for our wonderful time on your boat. I will forever cherish and miss it! Jackie and Sam

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

Michael G.

11 Apr 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spring break on the water

The sailboat was just as advertised- clean with fresh linen and a beautiful location. We had one issue with the toilet but Isidora responded quickly and it was fixed. We agree with other reviewers that being agile helps with moving from dinghy to boat and back again. It was a lovely peaceful setting for cool evenings on the boat. Keep in mind that you need to replenish ice supply daily. We had issues with mosquitos just the first night and relied on the fans. It was a bit tight with 2 seniors and 2 teenagers but we managed. The location is convenient...just a quick drive to John Pennekamp State Park for snorkeling.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Starr R.

31 Mar 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Sailboat fun

Great adventure for all! A must do to have this experience in a life time! Beautiful sunset, peace and quiet, reconnecting time.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shandi H., USA

29 Mar 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We didnt want to leave!

It was exactly as expected a glamping on the water. The dinghy was easy to use and navigate. The boat was so peaceful and beautiful views we didnt want to leave!! We are hoping to come back and stay again soon!! Also loved the location as key largo is more laid back and there is great food. Highly recommend!! We also had a dolphin swim near the boat which was awesome and our 11 year old loved that!!

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveller

26 Mar 2023

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Scam… don’t ruin your vacation with this nonsense

She is running a scam. She should not be allowed on vrbo. She wants to communicate off vrbo. I have proof of all of this. She hides her dingy on private property without permission and tells you to hide your car in a hotel lot where it can be towed (again she doesn’t have permission from the hotel). Her and her husband/ boyfriend spy on you in the parking lot when you arrive. She has cameras on her boat. It’s really creepy. She is a bad person and she violates vrbo standards. Avoid at all costs.

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2023

2/10 Terrible

michael m.

13 Mar 2023

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Do not stay here it’s a scam

Upon arrival, we followed the owner's directions to the dingy and were told to park in a hotel parking lot, in the back. This seemed dishonest, and upon speaking with the hotel staff, this arrangement was, in fact, NOT approved by the hotel. We were advised that if we DID park there during our stay, that it would be illegal and they will call the police, having our vehicle towed. After that debacle, we decided to try to find the sailboat, and worry about parking later, as it was getting dark at this point. We loaded our things in the dingy and followed the information given to us by the owner to find the sailboat. The info said that from the dock, we were to travel at "11 o'clock" for 2 minutes, and we would see the sailboat. However, in the approximately 40-50 boats out in Tarpin Basin, ours was NOT at 11 o’clock from the dock. We searched on a small inflatable dinghy in the ocean for the greater part of 2 hours, and never found it. We messaged the host, and it took an unacceptable amount of time for her to respond saying that it WAS out there, that is how everyone else parks, and she didn't know what to tell us. So as it is dark, we have ONE small flashlight out in the middle of the open basin, we decided to air on the side of caution and return to shore for the night. We contacted VRBO, and they said they would try to contact the host as well and get back to us in 24 hours. We decided to find other accommodations for the night and begin the search in the morning, when it was light. When we went to begin the adventure again in the morning, the dinghy was no longer where we had left it the night before, so we were unable to even LOOK for the sailboat. The owner would not respond to any more messages at that point, and the information we got back from VRBO was that they would not refund our money due to the cancellation policy. The frustrating part is that WE DID NOT CANCEL OUR RESERVATION. We were not able to locate the sailboat in the dark, and were given false parking information that would lead to ticketing and towing, and we were given NO HELP to find the property, neither that night of check in or the next day!!! This was supposed to be a relaxing getaway and has become a nightmare of a battle with the owner and with VRBO. We have never had this kind of trouble before and it is unreal that we are having to fight this now! It is completely unfair to charge us for a property we couldn't even access!

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

2/10 Terrible

Austin F.

26 Jan 2023

Liked: Location

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in

If I could get a refund I would, don't waste your time.

The trip started off just fine. Finding the dingy was not to hard. We got the motor fired up, loaded up the dingy & took the first load out to the boat. That took a little time to find but once you find it it was pretty easy. On our way back to shore the motor died, out of gas. Luckily it died at shore. We texted Isidora. She respond quickly & came out filled up the dingy with gas & we were on our way. Though this time the motor was not responding like it was when we first arrived. The main reason that we decided to stay on the boat was because she offered dingy & two kayaks that we could explore the mangroves with. But the motors not working correctly. Besides that the first night wasn't bad. The next day we get up & head into town to get some fishing gear & breakfast. That morning the motor was a pain to start. So I text her to try & get the motor fixed or to have the spare motor put on the dingy. She said her mechanic will be there around 12 or 1 to fix it. So we spend the morning buying fishing gear, having breakfast & exploring Key Largo. At 2, I reach out to her & she says that it should be good to go. We get back to the dingy it starts right up & we start taking off. To only have the motor die half way out to the boat. By this point we are stating to get annoyed with everything. So we limp it back to the boat. Once again I contact her & say that dingy is not working. She then says she will get her mechanic & will bring the other motor out & swap them. Perfect right, nope. By now its 2:45pm. She said she would just meet us at the boat with the mechanic to fix it. At 4pm she says that her mechanic is no where to be found so she needed us to limp the dingy back to shore, so we do. With no mechanic in sight we had to swap out the motor. Which normally we would not have a problem with that. But after today we are just over it. We get covered in gas/oil from the leaky motor. My buddy hurt his back from carrying the motor back to the car for her. So now it's our last day, we just spend the whole day messing around with the motor. Bought all of this fishing gear & its now 5pm & we just got back on the water. Also mosquitoes ate us ALIVE. She said that she would refund us for our troubles. We thought that was a very nice gesture. Since we left I have text her multiple times inquiring about the refund & no responses. She leaves my "texts" on read but thats it. Do not waste your time with this VRBO. You are better off picking a different host.

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

2/10 Terrible

Patricia

13 Jan 2023

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication

The property was not at all what was advertised and we couldn’t even stay on the boat due to the the bed being soaking wet and overall the boat being cold and musty. You have to take a dingy out to the boat which is illegally tied in mangroves with only access is going down sharp rocks to access it behind a government building in which you can not park at you have to park next door at the hotel which you need to hope your car isn’t going to be towed for not having a parking pass. We fell many time on the rocks due to it being very unsafe. Then the dingy wouldn’t start and we called the owner multiple times with no response, so we had to row over a mile one way to the boat only to find the conditions to be unfit to stay because if we did we both would of ended up very sick. I messaged the owner asking for a refund or even a partial for such inconvenience and never heard back from her! Please do not waste your time booking this she is overcharging for what she is offering!

10/10 Excellent

Carrie C.

31 Dec 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family vacation

My family and I had a wonderful time.

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Megan T.

14 Dec 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very cool place

Experience was great! Host communication was quick! Place is great for a peaceful escape from reality! Will go back!

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

MARTINA K.

6 Dec 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great trip!

We had a blast staying on the sailboat. What a unique experience for our 3 nights in Key Largo. If you like camping (or glamping), water, seclusion and being immersed in nature this is it! I'd recommend this to anyone as long as they have some agility to get in and out of dingy and sailboat. Isiadora was very responsive and helpful with all questions and resolving the few minor snafus we had during our stay. We would definitely return again!

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Keith P.

9 Nov 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

On the ocean, under the stars

This was a fantastic trip! Everything was easy and the host was awesome and very polite. Had a small issue with the sailboat and she sent Jose out right away to take care of it. Jose was nice, although I had to save him from drifting away as his dinghy died lol! It was a great adventure that my son wife and I will never forget. Thank you for making it a special trip for my boy! Have a great day!

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Derek

7 Nov 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, communication

It’s a small sailboat. It was a little cramped and hard to move around for my girlfriend; but I live on a boat so I was cool. Maybe a little stool to help the shorter-statured get into the V-berth. But we had a manatee swim by, and salt-water swim just past dawn is always ideal!

10/10 Excellent

Ryan L., Lafayette, LA

28 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful experience!

My wife and I had a wonderful experience on the Salty Conch, but you must be realistic with your expectations. It is camping on the water. We were fortunate that the weather was beautiful the entire weekend. The experience on the boat was unique and enjoyable for someone who had not experience boat life. We had an enjoyable day on the water Saturday and kayaked in the mangroves. We even saw a manatee, which made my day. We did have a little trouble with the dingy while on the water and contacted Isidora and she immediately sent assistance. Night time on the boat was surreal and peaceful. We slept under the stars, thanks to an open hatch. The open hatch also provided a cool breeze that made temperatures enjoyable. Isidora was great. She was very responsive and made sure we had an enjoyable stay.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Paola D.

4 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spectacular experience

This was definitely a spectacular amazing experience. My husband and i loved it. We got to reconnect with nature. Had romantic dinners and laid under the stars . I 100% recommended this little romantic trip to everyone .

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

4/10 Poor

Cassidy W.

21 Sept 2022

Disliked: Location, listing accuracy

Bad Weather, No Mercy

We booked this boat for my boyfriend’s 29th birthday since he is a boat captain and loves being on the water and going fishing. We unfortunately booked it for a bad night because the weather was absolutely awful and I ended up getting boat sick. We had to get off the boat in the middle of the night due to how bad the weather was and had to book a hotel same night. I kindly asked for a reimbursement from the host due to this unfortunate circumstance and I never heard from her again. I would have appreciated some understanding and assistance during this time especially since we were staying at her boat.

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2022

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveller

18 Sept 2022

Disliked: Check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Big Disappointment

Do not stay on this sailboat unless you are prepared for discomfort and inconvenience on your vacation. While one might be able to get used to operation of the dinghy and boarding the sailboat with luggage from a floating dock, be aware there is no AC. (No WiFi either). We were there in early September and temperatures in Key Largo are still hot. To make matters worse, the onboard water pump broke shortly after our arrival. We did not have running water to shower or just wash hands and face to cool off. We resorted to using bottled water we brought with us. Tarpon Basin is not a quiet place all night. When the wind comes up there is banging of the ropes against the mast. Boats do come by in the wee hours of the morning. You can hear noise from the resorts along shore. If you shut the hatches and stay in the cabin, the little fans inside are insufficient to keep you comfortable. If you keep the hatches open, then you hear the noise and subject yourself to the incessant buzzing and bites of mosquitoes. We were covered with blankets and mosquito repellant. Despite the failure of the water pump, the owners have refused to refund our money for a three-night stay. We left the next morning after our first night having had little sleep and feeling gross from no shower and lots of mosquito repellant and sweat. We didn't hear from the owner until later that afternoon when they informed us the water pump had been fixed and we should expect to encounter some inconveniences on a sailboat. Again, unless you enjoy "roughing it" and experiencing nature's nasties as well as beauty, you will not want to stay on this sailboat.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022