Key West, FL
Welcome to Key West, the southernmost paradise of the continental United States! A frequent and beloved stop for major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises, this island city offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and quirky charm. Cruise passengers are drawn to its incredibly walkable historic district, laid-back atmosphere, and vibrant culture. Whether you're here to sip a margarita on Duval Street, visit the home of a literary legend, or simply soak up the sun, Key West provides an unforgettable and easily accessible port day experience.
Most of Key West's premier attractions are just a short walk or trolley ride from the cruise docks. No visit is complete without a photo at the iconic Southernmost Point of the Continental USA, a colorful buoy marking the famous geographic spot, located about a 20-minute walk from the port. History and literature buffs will love the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the famous author lived and wrote for over a decade, complete with its legendary six-toed cats. For a taste of local life, head to Mallory Square, adjacent to one of the cruise piers, famous for its nightly Sunset Celebration with street performers and vendors. The island's main artery, Duval Street, is also steps away and offers a vibrant collection of bars, galleries, and shops.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
While Key West itself offers more than enough to fill a day, some unique destinations are accessible for those with a longer port call. The most spectacular of these is Dry Tortugas National Park, a remote group of islands about 70 miles west, home to the impressive Fort Jefferson. Reaching it requires a full-day commitment via a high-speed ferry or seaplane, so it's only suitable for ships with extended stays. For a closer water-based adventure, numerous boat tours depart directly from the historic seaport for snorkeling and diving excursions in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. These trips to nearby reefs like Sand Key Reef typically last 3-4 hours, making them a perfect and popular shore excursion.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
The Key West Cruise Port is ideally located, with its three possible docking piers placing passengers directly in or very near the historic Old Town. The Mallory Square Dock and Pier B are situated at the northern end of Old Town, putting you steps from world-famous attractions, shops, and restaurants. The third pier, at the Truman Annex Outer Mole, is used by larger ships and is a bit further out. However, a complimentary trolley or shuttle service is typically provided to transport passengers from the Outer Mole to Mallory Square, a journey of just a few minutes. From any of the piers, the heart of Key West is easily explorable on foot, and tendering is not typically required.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
The official currency in Key West is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Cruise passengers from the United States will not need to worry about currency exchange. International visitors will find that ATMs are widely available throughout the island, particularly along Duval Street and near the port area. Credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express, are accepted at almost all restaurants, shops, and tour operators. It is always a good idea to carry some small bills for tips or minor purchases from street vendors.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
Key West is widely considered a safe destination for tourists, and exploring independently on foot is a common and enjoyable activity. As in any popular tourist area, it's wise to practice general safety awareness. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places like Mallory Square and be mindful of your surroundings, especially if out late on Duval Street. The biggest safety concerns for most visitors are related to the environment: stay hydrated in the tropical heat, use ample sunscreen, and be cautious if renting a scooter for the first time. Guided tours are a great option but are not necessary for safety reasons.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
Key West boasts a tropical climate with warm, sunny weather year-round. The main cruise season from December through May coincides with the dry season, offering pleasant temperatures ranging from the high 60s to low 80s Fahrenheit (20-28°C) with lower humidity. The summer and fall months are hotter and more humid, with a higher chance of brief afternoon rain showers. Visitors should be aware that Key West is in a hurricane zone, and the official season runs from June 1st to November 30th. While direct hits are infrequent, cruise itineraries can be altered during this period. Packing light clothing, a swimsuit, sunglasses, a hat, and strong sunscreen is recommended no matter when you visit.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
The historic core of Key West is very compact and best explored on foot. For those who wish to cover more ground or enjoy a guided experience, the Conch Tour Train and Old Town Trolley Tours are excellent sightseeing tour options that circle the island's major attractions. Renting a bicycle is another extremely popular and fun way to get around like a local. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available for trips to further destinations like Smathers Beach. Electric car (or 'Conch Cruiser') and scooter rentals are also abundant, but visitors should be comfortable with navigating alongside other traffic.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
Shopping in Key West offers a mix of unique boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops. The main shopping thoroughfare is Duval Street, which is lined with everything from t-shirt shops to high-end clothing stores. For a more localized experience, explore the shops around Mallory Square and the historic seaport, where you can find maritime art and unique gifts. Key West's most famous souvenirs include anything Key lime-flavored (especially pie!), handmade leather sandals from shops like Kino's, locally rolled cigars, and sponges from the historic sponge market. Prices in most stores are fixed, but you may find some room for haggling with street artists or vendors.
Last updated on February 14, 2026
Delight in close-up views of sharks on the only shark tour in the USA where guests do not get in the water. Travel on an eco-friendly catamaran, observing dolphins, stingrays, and birds along the way. Bait is used to attract lemon, nurse, and other sharks to the side of the boat for an amazing, family-friendly view.
Explore a special place for snorkeling at the Looe Key Marine Sanctuary. This sanctuary is part of the Great Florida Reef, which is the only coral reef in the continental USA. It is also the third-largest barrier reef system in the world, after Australia's Great Barrier Reef and the Palancar Reef.
Explore Key West’s history, lore, and legends from the ground up with an intimate, small-group walking tour. Led by an experienced local guide, you will stroll through the scenic streets of Old Town. Learn about the island’s first industries, such as shipwrecking and cigarmaking, and connect with the culture of the historic city.
Sail Key West on a majestic 2-masted schooner with modern, luxurious accommodations. Limited to just 36 passengers, this tour guarantees an intimate evening with plenty of room on the spacious decks. Participate in hoisting the sails, take a turn at the wheel, and enjoy drinks from a full bar while sailing past historic sights.
Join a tour from HONEST ECO, founded by an owner with a B.S. in Biology and over 10 years of experience on the water in Key West. This small family business is passionate about being respectful to wildlife and the environment. The tour aims to make a big impact by educating guests and leading by example.
Immerse yourself in Key West’s history and culture with the Southernmost Walking Tour. Starting at the famous Kino Sandals factory, your knowledgeable local guide will lead you toward the Southernmost Point. Along the way, you will get up close to popular landmarks and discover the local culture beyond the touristic façade.
Sail with a smaller group of guests on a 65-foot schooner for a beautiful sunset on the water. Enjoy a selection of eight wines from around the world, five premium beers, and an assortment of appetizers. The provided charcuterie boards include meats, cheeses, crackers, fruit, and chocolate. Sodas and bottled water are also available.
Come see for yourself why Marathon Mermaid is voted the number one thing to do in Marathon. This tour is built around the must-do Keys experience of watching the sunset by water. It’s the perfect opportunity to see what makes this sunset cruise so popular.
Sit back and relax on a spacious tiki bike as your private guide takes you through the enchanting streets of Old Town. You will experience amazing architecture and historic sites while learning the rich history and culture of Key West. This tour offers a front-row, VIP experience that is historic, cultural, and fun.
Embark on a tour around the island of Key West with a guide who will talk you through many points of interest. Make sure to keep an eye out for wildlife throughout the guided trip. Before the sun sets, your captain will find a quiet, private spot to watch it drop into the water, uninterrupted by other boats.
Embark on a unique fishing charter in the Florida Keys with ultimate flexibility. This trip allows you to fish the Atlantic side of the Florida Keys for a classic experience. If you so desire, you can also move to fish the Gulf side in the very same outing.
Take a unique, private tour with a seventh-generation local who knows the waters and can take you to places others can’t. This tour is completely custom, with start and end times that are changeable upon guest request. You will have a great day on the water looking for dolphins, snorkeling, swimming, and visiting beautiful sandbars.
Taste the sweetest adventure in Key West on a small-group tour led by an expert foodie and historian. Wander the Historic Seaport while savoring three decadent Key Lime Pie tastings and sipping a refreshing Key Lime cocktail. Along the way, your guide shares insider tales, quirky legends, and secret local spots not found in guidebooks.
Visit the island city of Key West on a tour where we do all the driving for you. Enjoy a narrated trip on the way down to learn the history and culture of the Florida Keys. You'll have plenty of free time to see the Southernmost Point, Mallory Square, and more before an easy ride back with island music.
Ride with Key Lime Bike Tours for a unique and unforgettable Key West experience with a friendly guide. You will cruise Old Town, visit iconic landmarks, and hear stories about the island's colorful characters. Voted Key West's #1 land excursion, this tour includes cold bottled water and a slice of Key Lime pie.
Enjoy a boutique, uncrowded sail aboard a historic schooner for a calm and intimate vibe, not a typical party boat. The experience features a guided tasting of fine wines, a selection of craft and domestic beers, and light hors d'oeuvres. With small group sizes and a fun, welcoming crew, you’ll enjoy an upscale evening watching the Key West sunset.
Join a small-group sip and stroll to Key West's craftiest bars and hidden local gems, limited to just 12 people. You'll enjoy five local cocktails and two food tastings while exploring neighborhood bars off the main tourist path. Discover the iconic stories behind Key West’s signature drinks, like the Hemingway Daiquiri, on this fun-loving, upscale bar crawl.
Take the Original Island Jet Ski Tour, circling the entire island of Key West, a trek impossible for most larger boats. Get unique vantage points of landmarks like the Southernmost Point and spot marine life in the backcountry. This tour also includes a dedicated freestyle "play" segment in a safe, open-water zone.
Sail on the Schooner Jolly II Rover for a traditional sailing experience with a hint of piracy. As Key West's famous "Red Sails in the Sunset" tall ship, there is no loud band, just the experience of sailing. Guests can get involved by helping raise the sails, steering the ship, and even shooting the cannons.
Experience sailing Key West on a majestic 2-masted schooner, combining 19th-century adventure with modern, luxurious accommodations. Her decks are spacious and comfortable, offering a classic tall ship experience. Participate in the age-old tradition by helping the crew hoist the sails or feel the exhilaration of taking a turn at the wheel.
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Prices are approximately the same throughout the year. Overall cruises visiting Key West are fairly affordable compared to other itineraries. Check the diagram below for the average cost per day by month.
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