yacht club key west

Yacht Dreaming

Yacht Clubs Key West: A Guide to the Best Spots in Town

The History of Yacht Clubs in Key West

The first yacht club in key west.

Key West is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and perfect weather. But what many people don’t know is that it is also home to some of the best yacht clubs in the world. The history of yacht clubs in Key West goes back over a century, with the first club opening its doors in the late 1800s.

The Key West Yacht Club was established in 1885 and was one of the first yacht clubs in the state of Florida. It was founded by a group of local boaters who wanted to create a place where they could gather, socialize, and enjoy the waters around the island. The club quickly became a popular destination for yacht enthusiasts from all over the world, and its members included some of the most prominent boaters of the time.

The Golden Age of Yachting in Key West

The late 1800s and early 1900s were the golden age of yachting in Key West. The island was a popular destination for wealthy boaters who would spend their winters there, enjoying the warm weather and clear waters. Many of these boaters were members of yacht clubs, and they would often participate in races and other competitions hosted by the clubs.

During this time, the Key West Yacht Club became one of the most prestigious clubs in the country. It was known for its elegant clubhouse, beautiful yachts, and its members’ love for the sea. The club hosted numerous events, including regattas, sailing races, and social gatherings.

The Decline and Resurgence of Yacht Clubs in Key West

Despite its early success, the Key West Yacht Club began to decline in the mid-1900s. The rise of motorboats and the decline of sailboats led to a decrease in interest in the club, and it eventually closed its doors in the 1970s.

However, the love for yachting in Key West never died. In the 1980s, a group of boaters came together to form the Key West Yacht Club Association, with the goal of bringing yachting back to the island. They worked tirelessly to bring new members to the club and to organize events and races.

Today, the Key West Yacht Club Association is thriving, with over 200 members and a calendar full of events throughout the year. The club hosts regattas, fishing tournaments, and social gatherings, and its members continue to share their love for the sea.

The Benefits of Joining a Yacht Club in Key West

Access to top-quality facilities.

One of the biggest benefits of joining a yacht club in Key West is access to top-quality facilities. Most clubs have their own marinas, with slips for members’ boats, fuel docks, and pump-out stations. The clubs also have beautiful clubhouses with restaurants, bars, and lounges, as well as fitness centers, swimming pools, and other amenities.

Networking Opportunities

Another major benefit of joining a yacht club in Key West is the networking opportunities. Yacht clubs are a great place to meet other boaters who share your passion for the sea. You can learn from other members’ experiences, share tips and tricks, and make new friends.

Educational Programs

Many yacht clubs in Key West offer educational programs for their members. These programs can include sailing lessons, safety courses, and courses on navigation and seamanship. By taking advantage of these programs, you can improve your boating skills and become a better, safer boater.

Social Events

Yacht clubs in Key West are also known for their social events. Many clubs host parties, dinners, and other gatherings throughout the year. These events are a great way to connect with other members and enjoy the social aspect of boating.

Member Discounts

Finally, many yacht clubs in Key West offer discounts to their members. These discounts can include reduced rates on slip fees, fuel, and other services. By joining a yacht club, you can save money on your boating expenses and make the most of your time on the water.

The Best Yacht Clubs in Key West

Key west yacht club association.

The Key West Yacht Club Association is one of the most popular yacht clubs in Key West. It has a beautiful clubhouse, a full-service marina, and a calendar full of events throughout the year. The club is known for its friendly members and its commitment to promoting boating and yachting in the community.

Sunset Key Yacht Club

The Sunset Key Yacht Club is another popular club in Key West. It is located on the exclusive Sunset Key Island, just a short boat ride from the mainland. The club has a beautiful clubhouse, a private beach, and a full-service marina. It is known for its luxury amenities and its commitment to providing its members with a first-class boating experience.

Stock Island Yacht Club and Marina

The Stock Island Yacht Club and Marina is located just a short drive from downtown Key West. It has a state-of-the-art marina, a beautiful clubhouse, and a pool and fitness center. The club is known for its laid-back atmosphere and its commitment to making boating accessible to everyone.

Schooner Wharf Bar Yacht Club

The Schooner Wharf Bar Yacht Club is a unique club in Key West. It is located at the Schooner Wharf Bar, a popular local hangout. The club has a fun, laid-back vibe and is known for its casual events and regattas. It is a great club for boaters who want to enjoy the social aspect of boating.

Yacht clubs are a big part of the boating community in Key West. They offer boaters access to top-quality facilities, networking opportunities, educational programs, and social events. If you’re a boater in Key West, joining a yacht club is a great way to connect with other boaters and enjoy the best that the island has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a prestigious club with luxury amenities or a casual club with a fun vibe, there is a yacht club in Key West that is perfect for you.

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Key West Yacht Club Marina

Location & hours.

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2315 N Roosevelt Blvd

Key West, FL 33040

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A good friend of mine is a member here at the yacht club. Periodically, we will come here and have lunch. Over the recent couple of months, they've been going through a transition and it appears that things are starting to come together. A new menu, staff is still there, and they are very good. Food was good not quite as warm as I like it but it was very tasty and the fries were excellent. It is a private club so they do pay particularly careful on the cleaning and making sure everything looks presentable.

Let me explain the address for the " Key West Yacht Club " on North Roosevelt Blvd. on the Island of Key West is a small town private club. My wife and I are members there and long time residents of Key West. Most of the reviews on this page are for a much larger " Yacht Clubs of America " Marina on Stock Island.....near Key West That Marina is much larger including swimming pools, gym and small beach area with restaurant and bar....very nice but is not on Key West. The Key West Yacht Club in Key West has a great restaurant and bar and much smaller marina with out many extras and no rental boats charters or Airbnb overnight accommodation. Hope this steers you in the right direction....I have had out of town guests cab miles away to the wrong restaurant... Welcome to our " Islands " .

This club is nice, small, and unpretentious. I have never been a member, but have docked my boat here as a non member The folks here have always been great to deal with.

Found a boat to stay on through Airbnb.com since the hotel prices were extravagant in the area and I have absolutely no regrets. The marina was part of the experience of staying on the boat, which offered us nice conveniences and amenities. The amenities included showers, bathrooms, gym and sauna and it all looked very clean. During the time that we stayed here, there were not many people around. While no one was around, we took advantage of the pool and beach area and it felt as if it was a private retreat for us. In this way, I felt that the vacation was way better than any resort would have been. The marina is secluded and can be a little hard to find. At the end of the road, there is a red brick driveway that then circles around into the marina area. We enjoyed the buffet brunch and although the food was good, the alcohol was flowing and the view was magnificent. The location of the marina is just a short drive away from downtown Key West, with a line-up of different bars, restaurants and other entertaining aspects. Fantastic way to spend a relaxing weekend.

I've been here roughly 3 times. Once while I was working a wedding reception, and the other 2 were as guests. All 3 times I was here, I was always treated with great attitudes by the staff, and they go out of your way to make you feel welcome. Be aware, that the portions might leave you desiring more such as the salad bar, or having to possibly order another entree'.

This place is awesome! Gorgeous pool, and at least 2 small beaches you can go to on the marina. Loads of gorgeous boats to admire. Good pool side service. The only downfall was the poolside bartender over charged the charge i wrote in on the tip, and we used our airbnb owners passes like he had instructed us to, and as we were being polite and trying not to hide that fact, got scolded that they shouldn't allow us in, but would give us passes for the day.

I went to the Key West Yacht Club today with a friend/client of mine who is a major CEO of a .com business in Key West. The place is beautiful, but I have to say the food was just okay. It wasn't bad, but certainly didn't blow my mind. The staff was very friendly and I'd absolutely go back.

Great place to hang out. They've got everything you need and so laid back!! Chill out on the beach or by the heated pool. Full bar. Half off appetizers from 5 to 7 pm. Nice!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Best Stock Island Yacht Club in Key West

Yacht Clubs in Key West

Stock Island Yacht Club

Play in the heart of downtown baltimore, marina info, enjoy five star luxury at stock island yacht club.

Please Note: This marina has limited 30AMP availability. Guests are encouraged to bring a power converter during each stay.

Enjoy five star luxury at Stock Island Yacht Club, after a day of chasing the spectacular giants of the deep such as marlins and sailfish. Formerly Key West Harbour Marina, you will find all that you want and more at Stock Island Yacht Club in Key West, Florida.  This marina has just about every amenity needed to ensure a memorable stay. There is a beautiful pool where you can float around with your frozen drink in hand that you snagged from the Tiki Bar. For lunch and dinner, you have your choice of grilling out in the picnic area or grabbing a seat at the on-site restaurant for delicious dining while overlooking the harbor. Additionally, the marina offers 400 Dry slips accommodating vessels up to 50 feet in length and 50,000 lbs and over 100 wet slips accommodating vessels up to 110 feet in length. The marina offers daily and monthly wet slips for rent, and charges a 40' minimum price. The marina has two sets of docks, fixed docks on the inner harbor, and floating docks on the outer harbor.

For those who want to get a little bit of heightened exercise, there is a health club available to boaters, which provides lockers, showers, and laundry to patrons. The dog-friendly marina is nearby plenty of outdoor walking trails and sidewalks, so you can enjoy some extra fresh air and cardio with the pups. Stock Island Yacht Club is conveniently a full-service marina, so you will have all of your boating needs at the tips of your fingers without having to leave the marina. There is a full pump-out station, as well as a gas dock that offers the Premium Valvtect Marine Fuel and Diesel. There is both a provisions store and snack shop, so you can load up your boat with all the necessities when you head back out for more cruising or fishing.

Location Info

• Mega Yacht Slips

2024 Rates: $5.00 - $8.00/ft

Cancellation Policy: This marina has a 72 hour cancellation policy. Please contact Snag-A-Slip or the marina at least 72 hours prior to your stay to receive a full refund.

Minimum Price: This marina charges a 40' LOA minimum rate for all reservations.

Late Check In Policy: In the event of a check in after hours please contact the marina with your information to receive docking instructions.

Special Events: This marina levies a 4 night minimum stay requirement during special events such as Mini Lobster Season and Boat Races.

Pet Policy: This marina is pet friendly. Animals must be leashed and supervised at all times.

Fuel Prices

Summer Season: Mon - Sun07:00 am - 06:30 pmWinter Season: Mon - Sun07:00 am - 05:30 pm

Payment Types

Max Length (ft):

Approach depth (ft): , dock depth (ft):.

Key West Dockage Reservations

Welcome to our premier marina offering 101 wet slips and 419 dry slips, strategically positioned by the pristine Atlantic Ocean shoreline and the crystalline Boca Chica Channel. Seamlessly accommodating vessels up to 110 feet with a maximum draft of 7 feet, our wet slips provide unparalleled convenience. Meanwhile, our dry slips cater to vessels up to 50 feet in length. Boasting a hassle-free ingress and egress via HawksChannel, we prioritize a boater-friendly experience. Situated merely four miles from Key West International Airport and a quick 15-minute drive to the renowned Duval Street, our location offers unparalleled accessibility by land. Delighting boaters with every reservation, we provide pump-out service, complimentary WiFi, and full access to our exceptional amenities, including a picturesque waterfront pool and trendy pool bar, versatile outdoor event spaces, well-equipped on-site laundry, a comprehensive ship store, and much more. As dedicated sponsors of the AGLCA, we eagerly anticipate extending a warm welcome to loopers traversing the country. Experience maritime luxury and convenience like never before at our marina.

Reserve Long-Term Dockage in Key West

If you’re a snowbird heading south for the winter or looking to makeKey West your forever home, Stock Island Yacht Club and Marina ist he perfect place to enjoy your extended stay. For long-term dockage inquiries, please fill out the form above under "Seasonal/Annual" and we’ll get back to you soon!

Approach Instructions

Marina Entrance Coordinates: LATITUDE 24.5622033 LONGITUDE -81.7242979

Directions into SIYC&M by water

Approach Boca Chica Channel - Green markers on the port side including 1, 3, & 5 - Red markers on the starboard side 2 & 4 - Follow the Westward A Channel starting with 1A - Green markers on the port side including 1A, 3A, & 5A - Red markers on the starboard side including 2A & 4A - Once 7A is in sight, look for our Tiki Hut on the port side & Clubhouse with green roof on the starboard side - We have entrance markers 1 & 2 as a 90 degree port side turn into our entrance. ‍ YOU HAVE ARRIVED IN PARADISE!

Contact us at 305-292-3121 ext.1 if you have any additional questions or if you need docking assistance.

Marina Spotlight: Stock Island Yacht Club

Paintings and art in Key West | Credit EB Adventure Photography on Shutterstock

Artistic Wonders

Key West is a tropical playground for boating enthusiasts, bursting with activities for every taste. As you stroll through the historic streets of Key West, you’ll notice that the island has a vibrant art scene. Wander through Old Town’s charming streets lined with art galleries such as the Gallery on Greene , showcasing a rich tapestry of local and contemporary works. The Studios of Key West offer a creative hub, where artists and art lovers converge, fostering a dynamic cultural atmosphere.

Culinary Delights

When you’re ready for a bite to eat, Key West has an incredible food scene. Dive into the freshest seafood at Half Shell Raw Bar , where oysters and conch fritters reign supreme. Another waterfront gem located in Stock Island is Docks , where you can enjoy a freshly caught seafood feast with a view. Savor their famous seafood platter or the catch of the day while basking in the island breeze.

To satisfy your sweet tooth, be sure to indulge in the iconic Key lime pie – a tangy and refreshing dessert that captures the essence of Key West. Blue Heaven , a quaint and beloved eatery in Key West, offers a divine Key lime pie in a charming outdoor setting.

Pier in Key West Florida | Credit Ventdusud on Shutterstock

Things to do

For those seeking thrills, the fishing in Key West is truly legendary. Embark on a deep-sea fishing expedition and chase after marlins and sailfish, or explore the vibrant coral reefs under the sea through snorkeling or diving adventures. The ocean isn’t just a playground for fishing, it’s also a canvas for breathtaking sunsets. Unwind from the day with a mesmerizing sunset cruise, where the sky transforms into a palette of warm hues, creating the perfect backdrop for romantic moments or photo opportunities. With its blend of art, food, and outdoor pursuits, Key West offers an unforgettable experience for every kind of boater.

Where to Dock in Key West

Stock Island Yacht Club | Credit Stock Island Yacht Club

Just minutes from everything Key West has to offer is the luxurious Stock Island Yacht Club . Ensuring an unforgettable stay, the marina boasts an array of amenities that cater to every nautical need. Lounge by the beautiful pool, with a frozen drink in hand from the Jack’s Poolside Bar – an ideal spot for unwinding after a thrilling day cruising and fishing. For lunch and dinner, boaters can enjoy a grill-out in the marina’s scenic picnic area.

This marina accommodates vessels with over 100 wet slips for boats up to 110 feet in length and 400 dry slips for those up to 50 feet. Featuring fixed docks on the inner harbor and floating docks on the outer harbor, Stock Island Yacht Club ensures a seamless docking experience. 

Boaters looking for a bit of exercise can utilize the marina’s health club, complete with lockers, showers, and laundry facilities. Pet-friendly and surrounded by outdoor trails, the marina invites you to enjoy the fresh air with your four-legged companions. As a full-service marina, Stock Island Yacht Club caters to your every need, including a pump-out station, a gas dock offering premium Valvtect Marine Fuel and Diesel, and a provisions store for convenient shopping before your next maritime adventure. Discover unparalleled luxury and convenience at Stock Island Yacht Club, where every detail is designed to enhance your boating experience.

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Author Taylor Hollen

Meet Taylor, the marketing maestro at Snag-A-Slip! When she’s not busy cooking up genius strategies for Snag, you’ll find her in a frenzy of fun. Taylor’s world revolves around hiking with her labrador, Bruce, paddle boarding, and boating. With a passion for outdoors and a creative mindset, she masters the art of work-life balance and making the most of every adventure.

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Key West Yacht Club

The Key West Yacht Club is the Southernmost Private Club in America with 68 wet slips in various sizes, 3 transient rental slips, dock restroom facilities with showers, boat ramp, full service dining room and bar, ships store and gift shop.

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Focused on the nautical experience.

Spottswood Marinas are focused on bringing simple, authentic boating experiences with a heightened level of service. Our first marina is located in Key West, Florida and features both wet slips and dry stack storage. We offer many ammenities including an onsite hotel, restaurants, marine diesel and fuel, a private beach and much more.

Spottswood Marinas bring a blend of location and customer experience to the boating community. Our first marina is located in Key West, Florida and features both wet slips and dry stack storage. We offer many ammenities including an onsite hotel, restaurants, marine diesel and fuel, a private beach and much more.

Spottswood Marinas are focused on bringing simple, authentic boating experiences with a heightened level of service. To put it simply, we're here to make sure that your experience is as great as you're expecting it to be when you arrive at the dock.

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Demolition of old cape coral yacht club begins.

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Say goodbye to the old Cape Coral Yacht Club as demolition begins.

A year and a half after Ian, crews are taking down the buildings of the old Cape Coral Yacht Club. They were some of the first buildings ever in Cape Coral, constructed in the 1960s.

Cape Coral City Council decided to trade their stone and wood features for a "Key West Inspired" aesthetic. The plans include a two-story, 47,000-square-foot community center. They also feature two resort-style pools, an additional pier, and a 500-space parking garage.

The plans are getting mixed reviews from residents.

"They are destroying the Cape Coral Yacht Club," said Betty Huckle. "They're making it commercial like Cape Harbor. We live in the neighborhood, and we like it quaint."

"It's bigger and better," said Richard Griffith. "We got more people to take care of and think this is going to be a good thing for them."

A spokesperson for the city of Cape Coral said demolition should be done by the end of May. There will also be another public meeting on the design on May 7. The city said it's an opportunity for residents to get a deeper look at the plans and ask questions.

As for when the project will be complete, it's still too early to tell. The city said it's technically still in the design phase.

New Cape Coral Yacht Club designs: Most on council like a coastal, Key West vibe

G iven three different design options for the new Yacht Club Community Center , most of the Cape Coral City Council is leaning toward a coastal, Key West-flavor architecture.

At a committee of the whole meeting on Wednesday, the city sought direction from the council on a design direction for the outside of the community building.

"It's a concept, just like we do with anything else, and as we are designing, things may come up that we want to shift and be nimble (on)," said Cape Coral City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn.

James Pankonin with Kimley Horn, a consulting firm focusing on public and private developments, presented the information about the look of the community building.

Cape Coral's Yacht Club Community Park, which includes a yacht basin, tennis courts, a swimming pool, a ballroom, and a beach, has been a popular attraction and staple for the city since the 1960s but is set to undergo major renovations after Hurricane Ian delayed the original plans .

The current plans include a new two-story community center to replace the ballroom, removing the tennis courts, rearranging the area to accommodate a four-story parking garage, a new restaurant, and a new resort-style pool.

The city is also preparing for the demolition of the Yacht Club and its facilities in April as it awaits permits.

No estimates could be provided for the price of the new building.

"It will really come into how much of certain materials are needed and construction methods," Ilczyszyn said.

The city will have that information once they have 30% of the construction design.

Two public meetings for the designs are planned for April 2 and May 7.

After getting public input, the city will vote to amend its contract with Kimley Horn to approve all these changes.

The plan is to have these changes approved or introduced before the summer hiatus.

Previous Coverage Demolition of Cape Coral's Yacht Club slated for April will cost almost $1 million

Cape Coral community news Courtyards of Cape Coral South sets bingo fundraiser for residents still affected by Ian

New Designs for the Yacht Club building

John Bryant with Sweet Sparkman Architecture and Interiors, a Sarasota-based design firm, said the goal with the new designs was to maintain the experience of the original Yacht Club.

The majority of the council preferred option one.

Design one:

Bryant described the first option as "coastal vernacular" and similar to the park buildings at Lake Kennedy and Yellow Fever Creek.

"So it's sort of informed by the current architectural work in 2024," Bryant said. "Kinda Key West."

Councilmember Dan Sheppard and Mayor John Gunter preferred option one.

Gunter said the design was the most pleasing for him.

Councilmember Keith Long liked option one and said he liked the Key West aesthetic.

Councilmember Tom Hayden liked option one.

Design two:

Option two is more informed by the current Yacht Club and would have a stone base and mid-century feel to it, according to Bryant.

"There's certainly opportunity to kind of further develop this option to have even more of the existing Yacht Club feel, but a different vibe, feel than option one," Bryant said.

He also said option two might be more expressive the closer they try to recreate the aesthetic of the old ballroom building.

Councilmember Jessica Cosden liked design two as it incorporated design elements of the old building though she lamented how similar it looked to the first design.

"I wish we could have done more, but I know it's hard with a two-story building, to make it look the same as a very unique one-story building.

Councilmember Bill Steinke said two would be his choice as well, but was wary of additional maintenance of natural wood products used in the design.

"As long as we can bring that aesthetic and keep the maintenance down, number two would be my choice," Steinke said.

Councilmember Robert Welsh said he could go either way, but he liked the look of two.

Design three:

This would be more contemporary and modern.

"Even with a more contemporary language, you can still have warmth, incorporating some wood elements and stone elements," Bryant said.

None of the council members expressed any favorability for the third design.

Inside the new community center

The Community Center will have an additional 10,000 square feet for a total of 47,000 square feet, a history room to remember the first ballroom building on the first floor, and more rooms for civic and community use on the first floor.

Additionally, the new ballroom has shifted slightly as the balcony area on the second floor has been expanded to wrap around the top of the building.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: New Cape Coral Yacht Club designs: Most on council like a coastal, Key West vibe

Firefighters fly drone to help prep for summer litter cleanups at Downriver creek

A drone’s eye view of litter gave high-tech help this week to the nonprofit Friends of the Detroit River — while it brought smiles to Downriver firefighters who needed flight time on their pilot licenses.

“It was a win-win,” said the nonprofit’s Stewardship Director McKenzi Walisczek. The drone charted litter along Ecorse Creek, helping Walisczek decide where to target this summer’s volunteer trash cleanups. (Other river and park cleanups are scheduled this month, tied to Earth Day on April 22. See this story's end for groups that need volunteers for spring cleaning of waterways and parks in metro Detroit.)

In years past, the spring litter survey of Ecorse Creek was done on foot and by kayak. That took Friends of the Detroit River four to five days. This time, a drone did it in half a day. And did it better, because the pilot’s view screen listed latitude and longitude. That meant Walisczek could pinpoint where to map the sites of construction debris, shopping carts, old tires, and more.

Starting on a slow-moving stretch of the stream, beside Thunderbowl Lanes in Allen Park, the drone filmed more than four miles of Ecorse Creek, in Allen Park, Melvindale, Lincoln Park, and Ecorse. A creek may sound trivial amid Michigan’s array of big lakes and rivers. But Ecorse Creek, no wider than a traffic lane for much of its length, drains dozens of square miles in key Downriver areas. Then it dumps pollution and litter straight into the Detroit River, untreated. Along the way, it often floods streets and basements during rainstorms.

Now, like countless other smallish streams in metro Detroit, Ecorse Creek is getting more attention, as local, regional, and state leaders wrestle with the need to manage stormwater, to make it cleaner while keeping it out of neighborhoods. At the same time, groups like Friends of the Detroit River want to revive the natural flow and beauty of metro-Detroit’s waterways, large and small, to bring back these places for fishing, paddling and just strolling on waterside paths.

Among many ideas for improving water quality, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments this week urged state lawmakers to adopt two new laws: one would establish a statewide code for septic systems, catching Michigan up to all 49 other states that have such codes; and another to require labels for disposable wipes that say they can't be flushed down toilets, "in response to the substantial harm disposable wipes do, and at great expense, to plumbing and public sewage infrastructure," according to a SEMCOG statement.

“We stand still and the drone does all the work,” Walisczek said Monday morning, jotting down notes and coordinates as she stood beside the drone pilot. “I look for culverts that are disconnected and trees down that stop the water flow. When it stops, that’s poor water quality for the fish and wildlife."

The drone, a $10,000 model, belongs to the Downriver Special Operations Fire Services, a mutual aid group of small fire departments that share this aircraft the size of a small suitcase. It can save lives and help put out fires, said Dan Mercure, chief of the Rockwood Fire Department, as he stood nearby.

“We can fly over a big fire and see where to put water on it. And we have an infrared sensor on it, so when a fire’s out we can fly over and find hot spots” that need more soaking, Mercure said. The same sensor "can find a child lost in the woods" by detecting body heat, he said. Flying the drone over Ecorse Creek was firefighter Eric Poet of the Huron Township Fire Department and giving direction was Jerry Hollis, a fire captain with the Wayne County Airport Authority, and also team coordinator with the Downriver Logistics Team, in charge of the drone.

“If you see debris, stop and we’ll zoom in,” Hollis told Poet. Most of the time, Poet flew at about 250 feet but he’d descend for close-ups of trash and log jams.

“We can go up to 400 feet. That’s the FAA maximum,” Hollis said, referring to the federal rule for non-military drones. Another flight rule? Keep the drone in sight. So, after just 10 minutes of flight time, Poet brought down the spy in the sky. Then the group headed downstream to film another stretch.

Ultimately, human hands inside plastic gloves this summer will haul debris from the water and scour the creek banks for more. Yet, high-tech has come even to the task of removing litter. The city of Detroit announced this week that it would test a robot called BeBot on Belle Isle Beach. Funded by Meijer, BeBot can tidy up 32,000 square feet of beach in an hour, grabbing everything from plastic junk to bottles, food wrappers, cigarette butts, and fragments of plastic (See coverage of BeBot by Free Press Staff Writer Frank Witsil, in online and print editions starting Wednesday).

At Ecorse Creek, tagging along with the firefighters and the riverkeeper was Bryon Frady of Melvindale, retired after 34 years in his family’s package delivery business, now obsessed with pulling junk from rivers.

“People call me Rouge River man,” Frady said with a chuckle. Minutes later, he got serious as he spied trash scattered around the tell-tale evidence of a beaver – tree saplings chewed off, knee-high.

“Well, that’s good and not good. I like wildlife. But if beavers dam up the stream, that’s not good for the fish,” he said. Frady said he’s been on many a litter patrol up and down Ecorse Creek’s three sections – the north, south, and middle branch.

“I don’t like kayaks. I use a canoe,” he said. Frady’s Facebook page shows him, just last month, yanking an old bike out of Ecorse Creek into his canoe, beneath snow-speckled streambanks. One friend helped him from her kayak, another snapped their photo. Frady doesn’t wait for officially sanctioned clean-up days, when volunteers gather, fueled by doughnuts and coffee.

“Sometimes I just sneak down and do it by myself,” he said, quick to laugh at himself. What's the appeal? The former hunter and angler said he always loved being in nature and still does, but in a new way.

“After all the good I’ve taken from the woods, now it’s time to give it back. A friend of mine says, ‘The rivers need me.’ That’s how I feel,” he said.

How to volunteer

Here are the dates and locations of river, lake and park cleanups in metro Detroit this spring. Most events supply gloves and trash bags. Some provide lunch. Several welcome boaters and kayakers:

• Earth Day Cleanup, 10 a.m.-noon, April 21, Rouge Park and Rouge River area on Joy Road in west Detroit (bordering Redford Twp.). Register at website of Friends of Rouge Park (r ougepark.org) .
• Spring Cleanup, 9 a.m.-noon, April 27, Rotary Park, 1 Riverside Drive, Trenton. Register at website of Friends of the Detroit River; note whether you can bring a boat (detroitriver.org/events).
• Belle Isle Spring Cleanup, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., April 27. Park at the Aquarium; kayakers welcome. Register at website of Belle Isle Conservancy (belleisleconservancy.org/cleanup).
• Weekly Wednesday River Cleanups, 10 a.m.-noon, locations rotate weekly through Oakland and Macomb counties (April 24 event is in Troy). Register at website of Clinton River Watershed Council ( crwc.org/events) .
• Lake St. Clair Nautical Coast Cleanup, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., May 19, Jefferson Yacht Club, 24504 East Jefferson, St. Clair Shores but takes place at numerous sites on the shore and in the lake. Register at site of SCS Waterfront Environmental Committee (scswec.org).

Contact Bill Laytner: [email protected]