Given the situation at hand, the emerging popularity of vacations within easy driving distance of home should be no surprise. “Staycation 2.0” is my name for the rebirth of this trend that seems to be growing daily for us. We are receiving more and more reservations for sail or power yacht charters from people living within driving distance here in Florida as well as throughout the Southeast. The same is true for our live-aboard sail and power courses.
I first heard of the term “staycation” in the early 2000s, describing a suddenly common phenomenon of staying home to vacation or close to home rather than traveling by air due to the shortage of funds or fear of danger.
The COVID-19 pandemic has apparently given rise to the rebirth of this phenomenon. People are concerned about their health, but they also need time away from home, addressing the high incidence of “Cabin Fever”, and want to do so in a way that’s as cost-effective as possible. Travel to staycation sites by car limits exposure to others and selected destinations such as ours comply fully with social distancing requirements.
That pretty much characterizes those who are making reservations with us over the near term. We are a relative easy drive for Florida residents and most anyone who resides in the southeastern U.S. Frankly, there’s no better time than now to cruise through the barrier islands of Southwest Florida – Sanibel, Captiva, Cayo Costa, Gasparilla and much more. No worry about social distancing while cruising the area or walking along any of the island beaches. We can also accommodate those cruisers who need a captain for their charter.
Some “staycationers” are taking advantage of the opportunity to learn more about cruising by enrolling in our liveaboard power and sail courses. These classes address the needs of both those new to cruising and others with more advanced course needs. All courses take place on board, making the application of lessons truly hands-on.
We all can only hope that COVID-19 is on the downswing, and I’m really happy that we can offer ways for cruisers to enjoy the staycations they prefer without health concerns for crew members.
Barb Hansen, author of View from the Marina manages Southwest Florida Yachts, yacht charters and Florida Sailing & Cruising School, a liveaboard yacht school. Contact her at info@swfyachts.com.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
