09/03/2026
We’ve been quietly working on something very close to our hearts, and we’re finally ready to give it a name.
☀️🌊
Introducing SMILE - the Sarasota Maritime Initiative for Learning & Education.
Our family’s roots in Sarasota run deep. We’ve grown up here, built our lives and businesses here, and are now raising the next generation here. From Ben’s early days working Beach Patrol on Siesta Key to family members serving our community as firefighters and paramedics, Sarasota has always been home.
And in many ways, SMILE has already been happening at Siesta Key Watersports for many years.
Our captains have always shared what they know about Sarasota’s waterways with the families who come aboard. Behind the scenes, we’ve helped young crew members earn sea time, learn from experienced captains, attend Sea School, and work toward earning their Master Captains License.
SMILE gives a name to that commitment ... helping more local kids and families experience Sarasota from the water, expanding access to those opportunities, and continuing to invest in young people who may one day be at the helm themselves.
We have a lot more to share.
For now, there’s a lot to SMILE about. ☀️
Blue Skies & Endless Adventures.
— Your Local Crew at Siesta Key Watersports 🩵
08/27/2026