Our trip to the Marquesas will follow in Ernest Hemingway's footsteps. The Marquesas Keys are known as Hemingway's Playground. The first sportfishing foray was a weekend trip with Charles to the Marquesas, 30 miles offshore, on a boat captained by Bahamian “Bra” Saunders. Ernest was ecstatic—he was finally fishing in the Gulf Stream for sailfish, swordfish, tarpon, and marlin. They fished daily, dined on snapper, yellowtail, and raw conch salad, and docked evenings in the Marquesas. Let's add snorkeling, beaches, and exploring the nature preserve. We will leave from the Perry Hotel & Marina, traveling on the gulf or Atlantic side, past Key West Harbor toward Boca Chica and the Marquesas. The Marquesas Keys are relatively remote and less crowded than other popular spots in the Florida Keys. This means enjoying a more tranquil and pristine environment, with beautiful, unspoiled beaches and clear waters. Great for Wildlife Viewing: The area is known for its diverse marine life. You might see dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species. It's a fantastic spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.