“Southern Cross” – Vintage Yacht Life
Step aboard this classic 40' Marine Trader trawler (YES IT HAS AIR CONDITIONING and Heat) and cruise back in time to the easygoing spirit of the Florida Keys in the 1970s. This double cabin beauty floats in a world where flip-flops were formal wear, suntans were eternal, and easy rock played softly from the cabin stereo while the sun dipped low over the mangroves. She's not just a boat — she’s a vibe.
The Space
A floating slice of vintage yacht life, with wood-trimmed interiors, wide decks for lounging in the sun, and the kind of breezy freedom that made the Keys the last great American escape. Settle into the rhythm of a simpler time. Wake up with the sunrise spilling through portholes, pour a cup of coffee, and feel the gentle sway of the water from Manatee Bay as the day unfolds. Whether you're sunbathing on the bow with Fleetwood Mac on low or sipping a cold drink on the aft deck as the Doobie Brothers hum in the background, everything about this trawler whispers: take it easy. Perfect for couples or a pair of mellow adventurers seeking a retro retreat.
Anchored in a quiet corner of paradise, this trawler brings you close to the heart of Old Florida — before the crowds, before the high rises. Think barefoot exploration on kayaks through mangrove mazes, coconut oil on bronze skin, and evenings spent stargazing with a little Steely Dan in the air. The marina is chill, the neighbors are friendly, and the pace is just right. It's the kind of place Jimmy Buffett would’ve pulled into, guitar in hand and no particular plan.
This isn’t a hotel stay — it’s a state of mind. Come drift away in a world of weathered teak, salty breezes, and stories told over rum drinks under the stars. If you’re craving a break from the noise, a touch of nostalgia, and the laid-back freedom of a bygone era, this floating getaway is calling your name. Welcome aboard, captain. Your 1970s Keys dream is ready to play on repeat. Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape.
Your home afloat features:
Sleeping Quarters:
Aft Master Cabin with a Brand New Double Bed.
Front Cabin 2 twin v births/beds
Cooking on the Boat:
No Gas Stove/Oven Use: The stove and oven on the boat are turned off, and no gas is connected to them. Cooking on or in this stove/oven is not allowed.
Kitchen Appliances: The boat is equipped with a coffee maker, toaster, pull out drawer refrigerators, Table top ice maker and a combination microwave/air fryer/convection oven. These can be used for cooking and preparing meals on the boat. (No freezer and no stove/oven on boat). BBQ Grill: If you prefer cooking on a stove or grill, you can use the gas BBQ grill with a side burner located 20 feet away from the boat.
There is a kitchen sink and a sink in each bathroom with cold water (well Florida does not have really cold water anytime) to wash your hands and dishes. We do not recommend you drink this water. For the ice maker and drinking water we recommend bringing with you some bottled water.
Bathroom Use:
In the Middle of the Night: There are two bathrooms on the boat, which can be used for emergencies during the night.
Daytime Use: For use during the day, the marina bathrooms are available. The website has pictures of these bathrooms for reference.
• Salon: The main salon has a dinette and dining table that can double as a work desk.
• 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 on board (however, marina facilities with hot/cold showers, bathrooms and laundry facilities are within 30 feet of where the Trawler 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.
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 with side burner 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 Ocean Sunrise.
• 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 Boat down, and you’d hate that and so would we. We are VERY SERIOUS about this rule.
• Public Marina: Ocean Sunrise 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.
Window Coverings Purpose:
The boat is equipped with exterior window coverings designed to deflect sun and heat. These coverings help keep the interior cool, especially during the summer months.
Summer Use: During the summer, the exterior window coverings remain in place day and night to help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Privacy: For privacy, there are interior shades inside the boat that guests may use as needed. Important: Please do not remove the exterior window coverings, as they are essential for keeping the boat cool during warmer months. If you would like them removed during the winter months, please let Diane or Angela know, and we will be happy to arrange that for you.
Thank you for considering our vintage boat for your unique stay!
Here’s what’s included on board:
Aft Master Cabin with a Brand New Double Bed.
Cutting board, cups/mugs, plates and cutlery
Hand soap, dish soap, 4 bath towels, 2 hand towels, 4 face cloths and 2 beach towels.
USB plugs and 110 outlets to juice up your phone, laptops and other electronics while on board.
Three boat chairs on aft deck.
String lights for cozy lighting
First Aid kit & fire extinguisher
While the boat does have A/C onboard, there is currently no heater. Dress appropriately for cool winter nights.
If you have any questions about anything, please let us know!
Other things to note:
Reservations are Rain or Shine
The Trawler is not to be started or moved. No Children under 12 years old. No drugs or smoking of any kind allowed inside or on the vessel.
Furry co-captains are allowed on board for an extra fee.
Guests are welcome to explore and enjoy the entire boat. However, please do not touch any of the electrical panels, gauges, throttles, or other equipment that powers and operates the boat. These features have been left visible so you can appreciate the craftsmanship and charm of this vintage working vessel. Thank you for your understanding and respect.
Enjoy the Experience!
ADDITIONAL CHARGES:
PETS/DOGS - Pets are welcome with prior approval. When requesting to book, please provide the breed(s) and weight of your dog(s) so we can ensure they’re a good fit for the property. A non-refundable pet fee will apply and is based on the number, size, and breed of the pets
DOCKAGE - Dockage for up to a 30 ft boat. When requesting to book please include make and model of vessel so we can give you a quote. The dockage fee depends on the size of the boat. (No sailboats)
The coral reefs can be found “OFFSHORE” and cannot be reached from the shore and require a boat or other means of transportation to reach.
We want to inform you that surveillance cameras are installed outside the premises of this property. Please note that the surveillance cameras are solely intended for enhancing the security of the property and to protect both tenants and their belongings. Should you have any concerns, please contact us.
