The Sunset Watersports Story:
A Legacy of Innovation
In 1984, a bold new venture took shape in the Florida Keys as Sunset Watersports opened its doors. As pioneers in the watersports industry, they introduced parasailing to South Florida, making waves as the first company to offer this thrilling experience. It all began with a single boat and a vision, driven by the determination of the owner, who risked it all to bring an exciting new activity to an emerging destination. In those early days, the owner would sleep on the parasail boat, embodying the spirit of adventure that would define the company’s journey. As operations grew, they moved to a bus, marking the start of a long tradition of innovation.
Sunset Watersports has been at the forefront of the watersports industry in Key West for 40 years, constantly evolving and setting new standards. Their influence extends beyond offering memorable experiences; they were instrumental in developing much of the equipment and procedures used in parasailing today, as one of the first companies to bring this activity to the United States.
Safari Eco-Tour Boats
↓
One of their groundbreaking contributions was the creation of the safari eco-tour, which utilized custom-designed boats built in collaboration with a manufacturer. These specialized vessels allowed guests to venture into the untouched backcountry, offering a unique and immersive experience that highlighted the natural beauty of the Keys.
Sunset Watersports also revolutionized the local tourism industry with their innovative “Do It All” package. Conceived over 25 years ago to provide entertainment on windy days when most activities were shut down, this package has grown into an award-winning 6-hour adventure. The trip includes a thrilling array of activities like jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, and banana boat rides, complemented by food and drinks. The “Do It All” package ensures guests experience the best of Key West in one comprehensive excursion, a concept that has since been widely adopted by other providers.
The Original Key West Do It All - 1980S
↓
Smathers Beach - 1989
In a time when corporate buyouts are reshaping the industry, Sunset Watersports remains a rare gem as the first and last major watersports company in the Florida Keys that is still family-owned and operated. This independence allows them to maintain a personal touch and a deep commitment to the local community and their guests.
As Sunset Watersports celebrates 40 years of innovation, they continue to lead the watersports industry in the Florida Keys, driven by a passion for creating unparalleled experiences. Their story is one of continuous improvement, dedication, and a love for the watersports that make Key West a beloved destination.
Sunset Watersports Archival Photo Gallery
Island Party, Sunset Watersports 1980S
Key West Original Jet Ski Tours - 1980S
Old School Parasail Flight - 1980S
Old School Sunset On Smathers Beach
The Original All Day Key West Adventure
Parasailing In The 1980S In Key West Florida
Parasailing Key West - 1984
1980S Parasail Platform In The Florida Keys
Parasail Platform In The 1980S
Smathers Beach Original Beach Pass, 1980S
Parasailing In Key West Since The 1980S
Key West Smathers Beach Pass - 1980S
Sunset Watersports Then Vs. Now
Do It All
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Jet Ski
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
Parasail
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.
