still deciding?
Are you still mulling this over? Considering what you want out of your vacation might promote one place over another. Having cruised both, I will say that you will have a great time doing either. To get to the Caribbean, you'll naturally be crossing the Gulf Stream. Having been caught in a stream squall, I can testify that it is not something generally found on someones's vacation "to do" list. Customs were a cinch. We went to a samller Cay first and found the official very unassuming. The cultural change is a plus. If scuba diving is on your list, but you have neither the equipment or certification (but the skills) this is the place to go. "Adventure" factor is higherThe Fla. Keys are more accessible (culturally, monetarily, etc.). There is also great diving and snorkling here, of course, but if you want to have some fantastic suba time have your certification at the ready. You can get the away from it all feeling in the Keys, as was already suggested by sailing on past Key West to Boca Grande and the Tortugas. Please have fun for a land locked sailor this winter!--Rico.