Posts Tagged “Unique Gifts”
My Quest For Unique Home Decor Stores in Central Florida
I have always had a flare for the unique! Whether it be my clothing, furniture, home accents, dining choices, or vacation destinations… I’ve always sought the unusual. If everyone has it or is doing it, I’m usually not interested. On the other hand, if it’s rare or exclusive its got my attention! So when I moved to Florida 24 years ago (that almost makes me a native Floridian!) I searched for home decor stores that specialized in distinctive, high quality merchandise.
I had moved from the Northeast and was looking to change my home decor style from “old world” to a more “Floridian” look. However, pink flamingos and orange tree posters simply were not cutting it for me. My goal was to transition from a dark, moody, and elegant theme to a lighter color palette with a more relaxed “coastal” vibe. I wanted elements of the tropical landscape but it still had to feel remarkable. The cookie-cutter “box stores” that sold home decor were a dime a dozen, but I knew there had to be little gems out there somewhere, just waiting to be discovered.
Over time, I found a few home decor stores in Central Florida that were right up my alley! Definitely in a class by themselves! In this article I’ll be sharing my three favorites with you.
A Valuable Interior Design Principle
I was thrilled to find a few home decor stores that distinguished themselves from the typical. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely do shop at stores like HomeGoods, Kirklands, and even T.J. Maxx or Marshalls. In fact, my best friend and I visit them nearly every week. I love buying my seasonal decor at these off-price stores. They’re perfect for home decor I will be switching out every few months, or my outdoor decor. As a Florida resident, I learned pretty quick that it’s not wise to spend a ton of money on outdoor decor. Because of the extreme heat and high humidity most of my outdoor decor only lasts for a season or two, especially on my backyard lanai which bakes in the hot afternoon sun. I’ve even had high quality fade-proof material fade!
However, I do like to purchase my permanent “main focus” furniture and decor from the more exclusive stores. Not because it costs more, but because of the wow factor! Then I use the less-expensive stores to supplement the unique anchor pieces. In styling my decor this way, a funny thing happens… it ALL begins to looks expensive! The cheaper pieces become elevated alongside their more expensive counterparts – kind of like carrying a Christian Louboutin bag while sporting costume jewelry! People just see the purse and assume everything you’re wearing is authentic and expensive. Well, the same principle applies to interior design! If done strategically, mixing high-end and low-end home decor works beautifully.
My 3 Favorite Home Decor Stores
Two of the three home decor stores that I found I’ve been shopping at ever since I moved to Florida. The Stable in Lake Alfred, and Marge’s Specialties in Orlando. The third one I just recently discovered – Adjectives Market, with five locations in Central Florida. I love that all three are local, family-owned businesses. And you don’t have to live in Florida to enjoy them. Many visitors to Orlando stop in whenever they’re in town. Whether you’re searching for yourself or a special gift for that special person, all three of these home decor stores deserve a peek.
And at Christmas time… oh my goodness, these stores are amazing! I’ll include some photos I took while Christmas shopping.
The Stable in Lake Alfred Florida
The Stable Home Decor is actually part of a small collection of unique stores, all owned by the same family for over 50 years! The Stable is the more upscale shop in the little complex. There’s also Seasons Gift Shop (specializing in seasonal home decor and gifts), The Barn Antiques (open in the fall and winter months), The Backyard Garden Shop (outdoor plants, garden decor, and accessories), and The Back Porch Restaurant. (You can link to my full-length article and review of the complex here.)
My friend and I love this place. We frequent it often, as it’s the closest one to Solivita, our award-winning active adult community. We spend hours there. And oftentimes we take a break to have lunch at The Back Porch, a delicious on-site option for hungry shoppers! It’s a quaint little restaurant serving a picnic-style lunch. In fact, prior to COVID, the lunches were actually served in a picnic basket. The lunch consists of a soup, salad, sandwich, and dessert, using the Wales family favorite recipes. The portions are somewhat small but satisfying. We never feel bloated or uncomfortably full, only rested and energized for more shopping! (Don’t forget to try the raspberry spiced tea. I’m soooo addicted to it. Good thing they sell it in the gift shop!)
The Stable offers unique home decor and wonderful gift items. They have the perfect balance of timeless, traditional decor mixed with the latest trends. You’ll browse through little vignettes that pack a big punch. It kind of makes you feel like you’re in a designer home. There’s decor, handmade wreaths, floral arrangements, candles, potpourri, lamps, framed prints, and more. They even have some clothing and fashion accessories like purses and jewelry. The prices are in the medium range; not cheap but not too expensive. And I’ve never had an issue with quality on anything I’ve bought at The Stable.
The Complex is located in rural Lake Alfred, only 30 minutes west of Disney. Check out The Stable Home Decor website for directions and hours.
Marge’s Specialties in Orlando Florida
Marge’s Specialties has been local and family owned for 47 years. At Marge’s you’ll experience Christmas 365 days a year. The owners are proud to say that Marge’s is considered to be the largest Christmas store in Florida! I can’t confirm that, but I do know there is over 50,000 square feet of awesomeness!
Marge’s is comprised of four separate buildings, two of which highlight Christmas all year long. But even though Christmas has been their claim to fame, they have plenty of year round inventory to upgrade your oasis. The showrooms feature high-end contemporary and classic furniture, custom bedding, unique home decor accessories, lighting, fine rugs, quality silk florals, clothing, jewelry and purses. You’ll see brands like Lexington, John-Richard, Curry & Company, Sam Moore, Ambella, and Hooker. Marge’s also features Spartina 449 purses and is a Brighton Authorized Retailer.
Marge’s has in-house floral designers creating exquisite arrangements that are one-of-a-kind. On any given day you may be able to watch them doing their magic. Many of the Orlando/Winter Park area designers commission their work. And at Christmastime it’s not unusual to see designers purchasing fully decorated trees for thousands of dollars each. Marge’s is the go-to source for many affluent homeowners as well. But even though they service an upscale community with expensive taste, they cannot be overlooked by the average buyer.
Not everything in Marge’s has a designer price tag. Over the past 24 years much of my home decor has been purchased there. Some items I splurged on, but others I was able to purchase on sale or at a reasonable regular price. Marge’s does have a storewide sale a few times each year, including their Christmas Open House (usually in September), Christmas in July Sale, and Black Friday Sale. I signed up for their emails so I never miss a sale!
I like to visit Marge’s at least once every season. Even if I don’t purchase a thing, it’s one of my favorite places to gain decorating inspiration. Oftentimes I’ll take photos of the elegant and luxurious displays, then attempt to create my own inexpensive (but posh) version. I highly recommend Marge’s for exclusive home decor and thoughtful gift-giving.
Marge’s is about a 70-minute drive for me, but well worth it! My bestie and I make a day of it. Marge’s has an Orlando address, but it’s very close to Winter Park. We like to spend a few hours at Marge’s then head to the boutiques (and eateries) on Park Avenue in downtown Winter Park. It’s always a long but rewarding day! (Check out my Wealthy Winter Park On A Budget article here for inexpensive things to do while in Winter Park.)
Directions and showroom hours for Marge’s Specialties can be found on their website here.
Adjectives Market in 5 Locations
My friend and I discovered Adjectives Market as we were Christmas shopping in downtown Winter Garden (not to be confused with Winter Park) a few years ago. It was a small little store with lots of unique offerings – some traditional, some trendy, and some very eclectic. As we were paying, we inquired about other stores that sell home decor. That’s when we discovered Adjectives has five locations. The flagship store is in Altamonte Springs and we had just enough time to check it out that evening. With over 40,000 square feet, it was worth the drive!
Adjectives has been in Central Florida since 2012 and a good find if you’re looking to spruce up your space. The flagship store is a beautifully curated collection of unique furniture, striking home decor, art, sculptures, oddities, and handcrafted goods. The entire store is set up with small vignettes filled with tons of inventory. It’s like little individual boutiques all under one roof. Everything from classic to quirky. Many of the pieces are custom or handmade. They can even create custom furniture in their custom studio.
Adjectives Market is also a source for local creativity. A portion of the store is dedicated to local artisans, collectors, and vendors. During one visit we watched an artist restore a vintage furniture piece. He shared the backstory of the rare item, which was just as intriguing as the furniture itself.
Since many items are one-of-a-kind with rotating inventory, if you see something you love it’s a good idea to buy it, as it may not be there next visit. I found that out the hard way! And if it’s too big to fit in your trunk, ask about their same-day delivery.
Adjectives store locations, directions, and hours can be found on their website here.
In Conclusion
I hope you have been inspired to check out these three awesome home decor stores. They’re all different, and yet very much the same: unique finds, something for every decor style, great destinations for inspiration, locally owned, and very polite, helpful staff. Grab a shopping buddy and make a day of it. Whether girls day out, mother-daughter date, widows club outing, or simply retail therapy for yourself, they’re a wonderful detour from the typical!
Question: Do you have a favorite home decor store in Central Florida? Please share in the comments below, as our readers would love to know!
8 Unique Gifts for Florida Residents
8 Unique Gifts for Florida Residents
Hate boring gifts? Me too! But if your gift recipient is a Florida resident, your present doesn’t have to be dull and uneventful. As a Florida resident for the past 17 years, I’ve discovered some really exciting gifts that are far more memorable than the repetitive dinner and flowers. Not that Ruth Chris and roses are bad, they can just be, well… monotonous!
I’m pleased to share my go-to list that I use when I’m in need of a more unique or unusual gift, something unexpected that I promise will never be shoved to the back of the closet or re-gifted.
Several of the gift ideas work well for anyone living in Florida, regardless of age. A few are perfect for the adventure seeker, and we’ve got the proverbial foodie covered as well. And, no gift list would be complete without at least one option for that hard-to-buy-for hopeless romantic. Most of them are all-occasion, so whether you’re searching for a birthday, anniversary, retirement, newlywed, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or graduation gift, we’ve got you covered. Take a BIG sigh of relief, and let me know in the “comment box” below which one you chose. (The gifts are not listed in any particular order.)
Sailing Lessons: The Perfect Gift for Florida Residents!
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Sailing Lessons
I came across this unusual gift while searching for a milestone birthday gift for my hubby. I wanted something memorable and out-of-the-ordinary. After searching online for countless hours, I was growing increasingly frustrated and nearly settled for that unremarkable steak dinner. I’m so glad I didn’t give up, because hubby still talks about his sailing lessons gift, even though it was three years ago. He says it was the best birthday gift he ever received. Perhaps it was the element of surprise, I don’t know. Some men are not easily impressed and can be hard to please, so I was elated to see he sincerely loved the sailing lessons.
You can read my full review of the sailing lessons here. Even though this was a birthday gift for an older man, I quickly realized that sailing lessons would be perfect for [almost] any age and any special occasion gift. Sailing lessons are also gender-neutral; an all-around spectacular gift for anyone living in or visiting the Sunshine State. Realize, though, this is not your typical sit-back-and-sip-champagne kind of sail boat ride. This is a participatory sailing, perfect for that adventurous-spirit on your gift list! If you’re looking for an action-packed, exhilarating, unusual gift… this is it!
Since I live in Central Florida, I booked the sailing lessons with Captain Eric West at Adventure Yacht Harbor, located just south of Daytona Beach and near Ponce Inlet, Florida. However, there are other locations throughout Florida that offer private beginner sailing instruction. In fact, Florida has some of America’s premier sailing schools.
Disney Magic Band for Annual Passholders
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Disney Annual Pass
What could be better than a trip to Disney? Unlimited visits, of course! And what kid (and adult kids at heart) wouldn’t want limitless visits to The Happiest Place On Earth? A Disney Annual Pass is truly the perfect gift that keeps on giving. One of the perks of being a Florida resident is the close proximity to the world famous Disney theme parks, and the ability to purchase discounted admission of multi-day tickets and annual passes.
Disney offers a variety of ticket options for Florida residents, one for every budget. Whether you choose to give a Disney Gift Card that will partially pay for your recipient’s admission, or go all out and splurge on the full price of a Disney Annual Pass, it’s a gift that will not soon be forgotten. How happy that special person will be to receive endless adventures in the Disney parks!
Here’s a link to the official Disney website that will further explain how to gift Disney theme park tickets. Additionally, check out the article on FloridaFunAndFork that reviews a special type of Disney Annual Pass for Florida residents called Weekday Select Pass. Disney rarely advertises this inexpensive option, and most Florida residents do not even know it exists. The price will surprise you!
Florida Botanical Gardens Membership
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Historic Gardens and Museums Membership
Florida is home to some of the most beautiful botanical gardens I have seen. Because of our semi-tropical climate, there’s always something in bloom. Freezes are infrequent, so there is color year round. I love visiting the gardens in Florida in the winter months. The temperatures are cooler, there’s little or no humidity, and to me it’s the best time of the year to be outdoors.
A Botanical Garden Membership for Florida residents is another one of those unique gifts that can be appreciated all year long. And, here’s something you may not realize — most of them include reciprocal benefits. For example… I have a yearly membership to Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, Florida. Not only am I entitled to unlimited admissions to the gorgeous Bok Tower Botanical Gardens, I also receive free or greatly discounted admission to many other Florida museums, gardens, and cultural institutions. Additionally, I receive free admission to more than 300 participating public gardens throughout the United States (through the American Horticultural Society). You can check out the reciprocal national list here.
So here’s the math: I purchased a $70 Duo Membership (for hubby and me) to Bok Tower Gardens that includes unlimited visits to the botanical gardens, including the brand new 3+ acre Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden, and we automatically get reciprocal admission to hundreds of gardens and museums nationwide! Shopping for a unique gift doesn’t have to be a stressful experience when you have an option as awesome as this.
Florida Food Tour – A Yummy Gift Idea!
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Food Tour Gift Certificate
Whether you’re shopping for a bonafide foodie or someone who simply appreciates good food and drink, here’s a gift option that’s oftentimes overlooked. A Florida Food Tour is a unique gift choice, and a great alternative to restaurant gift cards. Not that restaurant gift cards are bad, they’re just unoriginal and sometimes used as a last resort type of gift when we can’t seem to come up with anything else. Sure, we can think of creative ways to wrap and disguise a restaurant gift card, but when it’s opened, it’s still a common, ordinary gift card to a restaurant they’ve been to a thousand times. It’s a great gift, but there’s no “wow” factor.
My favorite Food Tour in Florida is in one of my favorite cities in Florida — Saint Augustine. While in St. Augustine during our 25th wedding anniversary trip we took the Vittles and Vino VIP Carriage Tour. The food and wine tour (that included six different food outlets) was definitely a highlight of our weekend. Years later, we still recall the fantastic food, unexpected fun, and newly formed friendships we made. Historic St. Augustine is only a couple hours drive from most locations within Central Florida. You can check out the various Food Tours and pricing here. Another Food Tour we enjoyed was in Winter Park, Florida. FloridaFunAndFork has the full review along with photos here.
Unique Gift Idea: Murder Mystery Dinner Train
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Murder Mystery Dinner Train
I love the dinner and a show concept. Whether you’re looking for a great evening of family entertainment or a unique first-date experience, dinner shows are a fantastic choice. Most Florida residents and visitors to Central Florida are aware of the most popular ones like Medieval Times, Disney’s Hoop Dee Doo Revue, Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show, Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show, Capone’s Dinner & Show, or Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show. But, there’s a unique dinner show I love that’s not as highly publicized but just as awesome as those previously mentioned. It’s the Murder Mystery Dinner Train in Ft. Myers, Florida.
My best friend gave me this unique dinner show experience for my birthday a few years ago. It was a super-fantastic gift! The show was shrouded in mystery, with a conundrum of twists and turns in the plot. And, my friend was the only person to correctly solve the mystery, and received a prize! That made the special occasion even more memorable. Here’s my full review of the Murder Mystery Dinner Train, along with photos of the meal and cast members. I haven’t found a better gift for those who love a challenging murder mystery. It’s the ultimate “whodunnit” gift that will not soon be forgotten!
Florida Citrus Candy – A Sweet Gift Idea!
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Florida Citrus Candy from Davidson of Dundee
It’s no secret the Sunshine State is synonymous with citrus. A short drive anywhere within Florida will have you stopping at one of those infamous orange-colored domes that look like a real orange. It’s the destination of choice for tourists to pick up a bag of fresh Florida-grown citrus as a tasty souvenir, or perhaps ship a case back home to family or friends. A bag of vitamin-C-packed oranges or grapefruit makes a great gift. But there’s nothing highly unusual about receiving healthy citrus fruit from Florida — actually, it’s one of those things we are known for! It’s like people expect it from us. What they don’t expect is Florida citrus candy, with its unique flavor and texture.
The best I have ever tasted is from Davidson’s of Dundee. (You can see photos and read my review here.) They are a real, old-fashioned candy and jelly factory that has been featured on the Food Network, Fox News, Wall Street Journal’s Smart Money Magazine, Southern Living Magazine, NBC and ABC affiliates, and the Washington Post. They provide free samples, so you can try before you buy. Guests can also watch the candies being made during a fun and informative factory tour. And when you’ve finally made your selections, Davidson of Dundee can ship it practically anywhere.
Here’s what makes citrus candy from Davidson of Dundee so special: They cook every small batch in copper kettles, hand-stirred with wooden paddles, the recipes are from the early 1900s, they do not use high fructose corn syrup, and they use only the finest sun-ripened fruit from their own Florida groves and Everglades sugar. Oh, and did I mention Davidson of Dundee has been in business [at the same location] for almost a half century? Pretty impressive, don’t you think? Trust me on this one… citrus candy from Davidson’s will be a yummy, appreciative gift.
Stop by Davidson of Dundee located at 28421 US Hwy. 27 in Dundee, Florida. Or visit the website of this family owned Florida landmark here.
River Lily Inn Historic Bed & Breakfast
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Gift Certificate to a Florida Bed & Breakfast Inn
This is one of my favorite gifts to give… and receive. Who doesn’t like the gift of travel? And, let’s face it, we all need a little R&R at some point throughout the year. Big hotel chains with a ton of amenities (and hoards of people) are nice, sometimes. But for me and my hubby, nothing compares to the rest and relaxation we get while staying at a bed and breakfast inn. We find them to be quaint, quiet, and romantic. We always come away refreshed in spirit and revived in body.
I didn’t realize Florida had so many quality and historical B&B’s until I started searching for a special occasion gift some years ago. For example: We stayed at the River Lily Inn, a historic 1895 estate overlooking the intracoastal Halifax River in Daytona Beach. In my full-length review of River Lily Inn, I affectionately call it “the Ritz Carlton of B & B’s!” Everything about the stay was perfect. And we recently returned from a 4-night stay at Casa de Suenos, an intimate bed and breakfast inn, located in the historic district of St. Augustine. With a flair and grace reflecting its Spanish design and heritage, the elegant atmosphere was ideal for our 30th wedding anniversary getaway.
There are several ways to give the gift of B&B travel. Most individual bed and breakfast inns offer their own in-house gift certificates, which obviously can only be redeemed at that specific property. A better option, I believe, is to purchase a generic B&B gift certificate through a top-rated company like BnB Finder, by which you can select a dollar amount of your choosing that the gift recipient can apply towards the bed and breakfast inn of their choice. There are no blackout dates, no expiration dates, and the B&B travel gift certificate can even be emailed to your recipient. Another great gift option is to purchase a Buy-One-Night-Get-One-FREE certificate through iLoveInns. For as little as $20 you can purchase a gift voucher that allows the recipient to get a free night stay when they purchase a night. For example: If the first night cost $159, the second night would be free; thus making the voucher worth $159. Hubby and I have saved thousands of dollars on B&B lodging with these incredible vouchers. Travel — most certainly a gift that never goes out of style!
Unique & Unusual Gifts at The Barn Antiques Shopping Complex
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A Gift from The Barn Antiques & Shopping Complex
I like receiving gift certificates from retail stores as much as you do. But sometimes I don’t enjoy giving them. I feel as if it can convey the wrong impression — that I didn’t spend enough time and consideration on the gift. It’s nice to know there are still a handful of places in Florida where you can shop for that special one-of-a-kind unique gift. The Barn Antiques and Shopping Complex in Lake Alfred, Florida is one of those rare places. I’m quite sure whatever you choose here will not be returned. Or better yet, take your special person along and plan to spend a few hours here.
The complex consists of four specialty retail shops and The Back Porch restaurant. Treat your special someone to a picnic-style lunch at The Back Porch then allow them to choose their own gift from one of the shops. There are so many unusual items here, everything from home decor to clothing and jewelry, antiques from England, and even a garden shop. Trust me, it’s not the type of merchandise you’ll find at those big-box stores or the mall. I have never left here empty-handed, and I don’t believe you will either! The Barn Antiques Complex is another one of those family owned old-Florida landmarks that have survived almost 50 years… and with good reason!
Can you add to our list of unique gift items for Florida residents? Remember… nothing boring! Please reply in the comment box below.
Sailing Lessons: The Perfect Florida-themed Gift!
Help! I Need a Unique Milestone Birthday Gift Idea
Time was running out. There was only two weeks left to come up with something magnificent and memorable for my hubby’s birthday. And this wasn’t just any birthday, but a milestone one that required something more than the traditional dinner and flowers. To make matters worse, he had the audacity to be born right between Valentine’s Day and President’s Day, so typically we find restaurants and hotels in Florida to be overbooked, overpriced, and way under our expectations. So wine and dine was no option.
Sure, I could have done the [pretend-you’re-surprised] surprise birthday party, but that was too obvious. Isn’t that what everyone does when they’re celebrating three-quarters-of-a-century? The pressure was mounting and I felt like hubby thought I had it all under control, but in reality I had nothing planned and the onslaught of negative thoughts were having a party in my perplexed little head. I had no peace and was flat-out persuaded this special birthday was not going to be special at all.
Unusual Gift Ideas for a 75th Birthday
You’re probably thinking why didn’t I just go to the big “G” to get some recommendations for unusual birthday gifts. Truth be told, I spent hours doing Google searches that yielded very little results for something truly unique for a “seasoned citizen” living in Florida. Consequently, the word ‘senior‘ created a barrage of results giving me the top birthday ideas for men wasting away in state run nursing homes.
Really? Do they assume at 75 you’re senile and immobile? My hubby gives new meaning to the term “active adult!” He walks in divine health and has more energy and stamina than I do. The recorded miles on his Fitbit don’t lie! No, I had no interest in a gold plated custom-engraved magnifying glass or imported European walking stick. The top sure-to-please gifts for a 75th birthday (according to the search engines) were not going to impress my golden guy. I needed a special gift to reflect his youthfulness, not what the candles on the cake were indicating.
Sailboat Charters: The Perfect Special-Occasion Gift!
I was disappointed, to say the least, with my search engine results. The popular opinion seemed to be that many of us will either be dead by 75 or incontinent. But longevity is an inheritable trait, so I expect my handsome husband to be around for many more milestone birthdays!
So even after searching the internet, I was back to square one. My hubby doesn’t need Metamucil, has been on hot air balloon rides, climbed the ancient Mayan Pyramids in Tikal, Guatemala, and encountered screaming [Howler] monkeys in the jungle, among other notable experiences. Surely the Sunshine State has something outside the [boring] birthday box to offer his adventurous spirit, right?
In an effort not to be totally humiliated on that special day, I reluctantly booked four nights at a Luxury Bed & Breakfast Inn near Daytona Beach, only 10 minutes away from one of the top-rated restaurants in the country. It was exactly what I did not want to give… dinner and flowers! But I was persistent. In the wee hours of the morning, while hubby was sound asleep, I finally received my breakthrough. While searching TripAdvisor for “Things to Do in the Daytona Beach/Holly Hills area,” I came across a fantastic option — charter a sailboat with your own private captain! But even that was not so unusual for us. We have fond memories of sipping champagne as the sun was setting on a spectacular sailboat in the Florida Keys. But this one had a unique twist…
Our 36′ Morgan Nelson/Marek Designed Sloop EAGLE
A Private Sailboat Charter Was the Perfect Unique Gift!
Private Sailing Lessons — I Hit the Mark with Eagle Yachts!
No, this was not your typical sit back and sip champagne kind of sailing. In fact, alcohol is strictly prohibited on this sailboat. I was booking a participatory adventure. In short, that means we were going to be sailing the boat! During our two-hour cruise down Florida’s Halifax River we would receive private sailing lessons.
I had contacted Captain Eric West with Eagle Yachts who helped me understand how it all worked. I was so impressed with Captain West. I told him the sailing lessons were a birthday surprise for my husband, so he privately texted the directions to the marina and secretly answered my many questions. He helped me keep it a secret, and my husband never knew where we were going when we left our accommodations at The River Lily Inn… until we pulled into the marina! And even then, when he fixed his eyes on his birthday surprise, he assumed it was going to be your average sit-back-and-relax chartered sailboat ride. Not so! I was convinced I hit the mark with Eagle Yachts.
Adventure Yacht Harbor in Daytona Beach/Port Orange, Florida
The Dock at the Marina – My Husband’s First Clue to His Birthday Surprise!
Location of Adventure Yacht Harbor on Florida’s Atlantic Coast
The Adventure Yacht Harbor is located just south of Daytona Beach and near Ponce Inlet, Florida.
Sailing Lessons in Central Florida — The Perfect Gift for ANY Age!
I was amazed to learn that no prior sailing experience was necessary, nor any maximum age restrictions imposed. In fact, Captain West told me he had just finished a lesson with a 90-year-old man who did fantastic! And, that senior citizen chose the more adventurous “ocean route” verses the calm Intracoastal Waterway I had elected. Captain West wasn’t even concerned that I couldn’t swim. He said he had given sailing lessons as young as three years old!
Prior to leaving the dock we were given detailed instructions and taught proper sailing terminology to be used throughout our trip. Captain West would not allow any negative talk, and making fun of each other’s efforts was a major no-no. We were also educated on sailboat safety and emergency procedures. Knowing that the life jackets were within easy reach helped to calm my nerves, although wearing them was optional. By the time we set sail I felt perfectly safe and one-hundred-percent confident in Captain West’s vast experience and nautical knowledge. And, besides being an excellent teacher, Captain West is an interesting story teller as well. This sailor has had some incredible high-seas sailing adventures! For private sailing lessons in Central Florida… Captain West is certainly the best!
Private Sailing Lessons on the 36-Foot ‘EAGLE’ Sailboat
Captain West – Our Professional Sailing Instructor
Sailing 101 — Welcome to the Classroom
It was an extremely windy day with wind gusts to 28 knots, which made our sailing adventure even more dramatic. During our two-hour sail on the Intracoastal we did a lot of winching and had to tack a lot. (Those were a few sailing terms I learned… and remembered!) Hubby and I both had the opportunity to take the helm for about thirty minutes each. We found the sailboat to be responsive, easy to control, and we were not intimidated in the learning process.
What an incredible classroom! As sailors we learned all the basics: points of sail, rules of the road, overboard procedures (I tried not to focus on that one too long), heaving to, reefing, required safety equipment, maneuvering under sail and power, anchoring, and so much more.
The 36-foot ‘EAGLE’ Yacht: Our Hands-on Classroom!
Hubby at the Helm of the Sailboat
That’s Me at the Helm of the Sailboat
I’m Working Hard – Because of the high winds, we had very little time to rest!
Captain West Working the Sails
Hubby Anchoring the Sailboat with Captain West’s Approval
Dolphins & Various Marine Life — The Icing on the Cake!
For an added bonus during our sailing lessons, we witnessed playful dolphins and various other marine and bird life. Occasionally, according to Captain West, manatees, ospreys, frigate birds, manta rays and eagles are sighted. He told us this area is also a Right Whale sanctuary and calving ground, therefore, they can sometimes be spotted between November and April. (I would have loved to see them! They are among the most endangered of the world’s large whales, with an estimated population of only 500!) My only regret was that I couldn’t take more pictures of the marine life… we were too busy working!
Marine Life as Seen from Our Sailboat
Shore Birds Sitting on a Pier – Halifax River
The ‘EAGLE’ Yacht is Not Just for Sailing Lessons…
Even though Captain West specializes in private sailing lessons, there are additional events he’s available for…
- Lessons on your own boat
- Burial ashes scattered offshore
- Wedding proposals
- Wedding ceremonies
- Meteor shower watching trips at night
- Any special requests
Call Captain West with Your Special Sailing Request
Sailing Lessons – For the Young and Young at Heart!
We would highly recommend this sailing experience to anyone… young, or young at heart! The sailing lessons were not only educational, but entertaining. The next time you’re searching for a special occasion or unique Florida-themed gift, think outside the box. Our sailing lessons were unforgettable! Chartered sailboat lessons make great gifts for birthdays, retirement, graduation, promotions, Mother’s Day, or Father’s Day. Or, here’s a fantastic idea: Purchase a 2-hour Private Sailing Lesson Gift Certificate and donate it to a charity fundraiser.
Sailing Lessons are not only the perfect unique gift for Florida residents, but also the millions of tourists who visit every year. It’s a beautiful reprieve from the hectic Central Florida theme parks, yet only an hour or so away from them. We’re already planning sailing lessons for our best friends who visit from Pennsylvania every year. And, because of Florida’s mild semi-tropical climate, it’s something you can do 12 months out of the year! We went in the middle of February. By Florida standards, it was quite chilly (low 60’s) but a sweat suit kept us comfortable and warm.
NOTE: The cost for the sailing lessons was far less than I had imagined. For a very reasonable rate of $85/hour, (minimum 2 hours), I spent $200 which included a $30 tip. Although it was just hubby and me, Captain West allows up to 6 people on the sailboat, which makes the lessons a very good value for families or small groups.
Finished Our Lesson – Officially Sailed a Boat!
Completed Our Very First Sailing Lesson!
A Gift to Remember Our Sailing Experience
Each time we travel some place new or have a first-time life experience, I try to bring home a unique gift or souvenir to remember the occasion. Imagine our surprise then, when Captain West photographed us sailing the boat, then hand-delivered the keepsake photos to us at The River Lily Inn the following day. What an unexpected personal touch! And a sweet souvenir from our sailing adventure that we didn’t have to purchase.
Sailing Lessons: The BEST Birthday Gift… Ever!
Needless to say, hubby absolutely loved his gift. In fact, he has reminded me many times that it was the best birthday gift he ever received. Perhaps it was the ‘secret’ element; he’s so hard to keep a secret from! Here’s my challenge though… his birthday is coming up again in a few weeks. How do I top the sailing lessons?
Happy Birthday Hubby! He Was a Happy Man!
Hubby LOVED His Sailing Lessons!
Would you consider Sailing Lessons for a unique special occasion gift? Or perhaps you have another unusual gift idea. Please share with our readers in the “comment” box below!