During the 17th Century, Spain sent many treasure ships from Havana through the Straits of Florida, near present-day Key West. Many of these ships never reached their destination. Hidden beneath the sea are sharp, spiny coral reefs, the weather can turn from sunshine and calm breezes to a angry, howling gale in hours, and in addition to nature making the Straits treacherous, many pirates made the area their preferred hunting grounds. After their raids, they sailed north along the west coast of Florida, finding shelter and safe haven in the many inlets and protected natural harbors. Anclote Key derives its name from the excellent natural harbor found on its leeward side. 'el anclaje' is Spanish for 'anchorage'.

The city of Tarpon Springs dates back over a century. Greek immigrants came to harvest the natural sponges that grow in the warm Gulf waters and the city thrived, soon becoming the largest source of natural sponges in the world. Today, the shrimper fleet is also an important part of the local community. Both shrimpers and spongers dock their boats on both sides of the inner harbor, including the world famous Sponge Docks. A great place to stop after your cruise for a snack or some souvenirs. After a short walk down Dodecanese Blvd, the sights, sounds and smells will make you feel like you are in Greece.

All you need to bring to enjoy any of our sightseeing cruises is a sunglasses, cap, soft soled shoes (preferably soles that are light colored), sun screen, something to drink (water, soft drinks or beer) plus your camera. If you're going ashore to see the lighthouse or camp out on the island, we strongly recommend that you wear beach shoes.

Tampa Bay experiences a tropical climate with warm, wet weather during the summer months and cooler, dry conditions
during winter. Summer thunderstorms are legendary, as is the sunshine, with gulf breezes keeping it comfortable at 90F (32C).
Temperatures remain pleasant during the winter months, hovering around 65F (18C).