Key West, Florida, USA

Explore Key West, Florida, USA

Key West, the southernmost point of the continental United States, is a laid-back island known for its vibrant culture, stunning sunsets and rich history. Visiting Key West with a cruise offers a unique opportunity to bask in sunny beaches, enjoy water activities, and experience a diverse culinary scene. Fun fact: Key West is famous for its Hemingway House, where the beloved author lived and wrote some of his most famous works.

Activities and Attractions in Key West

When your cruise ship docks in Key West, you’ll find lots of exciting activities and sights:

• Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Explore the famous home of the author and his beloved six-toed cats. Take a guided tour and learn about Hemingway’s life and inspirations while enjoying the beautiful gardens.
• Discover Duval Street: Stroll along this vibrant street filled with shops, bars, and restaurants. Try the local Key Lime pie, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy live entertainment that pops up frequently.
• Experience a sunset celebration at Mallory Square: Join locals and fellow visitors alike every evening for a spectacular sunset show with musicians, artists, and food vendors. It’s an experience not to miss!
• Take a snorkeling or diving trip: Dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding the Florida Keys. Snorkel or dive at the nearby coral reefs and encounter colourful marine life, making it a perfect adventure for water enthusiasts.
• Explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: Enjoy a day at the beach or explore the historic fort. This park offers both relaxation and insight into the area’s military history, making it a lovely blend of nature and culture.

Common Harbours to Explore Before and After Your Cruise

When sailing to Key West, consider adding these nearby harbours to your itinerary:

• Cozumel, Mexico: Known for stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs, Cozumel offers diving, snorkeling, and exploring ancient Mayan ruins like San Gervasio. Enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine at local restaurants during your visit.
• Nassau, Bahamas: The capital of the Bahamas features beautiful beaches, shopping, and cultural sites. Visit the famous Atlantis Resort, take a walking tour of downtown, or relax on Cable Beach.
• Half Moon Cay, Bahamas: This private island offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the beach, go snorkeling or even horseback riding along the shore. It’s a tropical paradise designed for relaxation!
• Bimini, Bahamas: Known for its stunning beaches and clear waters, Bimini provides opportunities for deep-sea fishing, diving, and exploring local shops and restaurants offering fresh seafood and Bahamian cuisine.
• Miami, Florida, USA: A bustling city known for its vibrant nightlife, eclectic culture, and stunning beaches. Explore the Art Deco District, visit Little Havana, or experience shopping and dining at Bayside Marketplace.

Regions to Explore While Visiting Key West

Your cruise to Key West opens the door to explore these captivating regions:

• Caribbean: Famous for its stunning beaches and diverse cultures, the Caribbean offers picturesque islands filled with resorts, outdoor adventures, and rich history. Experience the alluring beauty, vibrant music and fantastic cuisine across various destinations.
• Central America: Rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, Central America features beautiful landscapes and ancient ruins. Experience eco-adventures in Costa Rica or explore the ruins of Tikal in Guatemala.
• South America: This culturally rich continent offers beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities. From the Amazon rainforest to the breathtaking Andes mountains, countries like Peru and Brazil are must-see destinations.
• USA West Coast: This iconic region features diverse attractions from stunning coastlines to vibrant cities. Visit landmarks like San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge and Seattle’s Space Needle while enjoying excellent dining options.
• British Isles: Known for rich history and stunning landscapes, the British Isles feature cities like London and Dublin, along with breathtaking countryside views. Experience cultural delights, historic sites, and vibrant music scenes throughout this picturesque region.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Key West

• Celebrity Cruises: With a fleet of 16 ships, Celebrity offers itineraries to Key West on Celebrity Reflection and Celebrity Summit. Known for their upscale experience and excellent dining options, these cruises generally depart from Fort Lauderdale or Port Canaveral.
• Holland America Line: Operating 12 ships, Holland America features Eurodam and Zuiderdam on itineraries that stop in Key West. Their focus on immersive cultural experiences and premium service make them a popular choice, typically departing from Fort Lauderdale or Miami.
• Carnival Cruise Lines: With a fleet size of 27, Carnival includes Carnival Dream and Carnival Spirit on itineraries to Key West. Offering family-friendly experiences and lively entertainment, these cruises often depart from Galveston or Mobile, Alabama.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Operating 20 ships, Norwegian includes Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Sky for cruises visiting Key West. Known for their freestyle cruising concept, these cruises usually depart from Tampa or Miami.
• Royal Caribbean: With a fleet size of 29, Royal Caribbean features Jewel of the Seas and Grandeur of the Seas on itineraries to Key West. Known for their thrilling onboard activities and entertainment, these cruises typically depart from Fort Lauderdale or Tampa.
• Explora Journeys: With a fleet of 2 ships, Explora offers itineraries to Key West on EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II. Their focus on sustainable luxury experiences emphasizes comfort and exploration, with departures from Miami or San Juan.
• Oceania Cruises: Operating 8 ships, Oceania features Vista and Allura for itineraries that stop in Key West. Known for luxury cruising and exceptional culinary experiences, these cruises typically depart from Miami.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With a fleet of 6, Regent includes Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Grandeur for cruises visiting Key West. Known for all-inclusive luxury and personalized service, these cruises often depart from Miami.

Visiting Key West Throughout the Year

Understanding seasonal changes can enhance your travel experience while visiting Key West:

• Winter (December, January, February): Winter temperatures in Key West range from 15°C to 25°C. It’s a perfect time to visit, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine, great for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Spring (March, April, May): Spring brings warmer temperatures, typically between 20°C and 30°C. This season is ideal for enjoying the blooming flora, outdoor festivals, and various water activities.
• Summer (June, July, August): Summer temperatures can reach around 23°C to 31°C, making it a warm season. Expect more tourists while enjoying fun beach parties, water excursions, and lively nightlife.
• Autumn (September, October, November): Autumn sees temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. This time offers fewer crowds compared to summer, allowing for a more relaxed visit, though occasional storms may occur.

Frequently Asked Questions about Key West, Florida, USA

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

Cruises to Key West generally range from $1,200 to $2,500 for a one-week itinerary while luxury options may start around $3,800, depending on the cruise line and accommodations chosen.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining typically ranges from $30 to $70 for casual meals, while specialty dining can exceed $100 per person.

What are some dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

Onboard, you’ll find a variety of dining options, while in Key West, explore local restaurants serving fresh seafood and key lime pie, alongside shops offering unique souvenirs and art.

What are transportation options?

After docking, local taxis and public transport options make it easy to reach nearby attractions. Many popular sites are within walking distance, allowing for a leisurely exploration.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the US Dollar (USD). Most establishments accept credit cards, but it’s wise to have some cash for smaller vendors and local shops.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Key West is generally safe for tourists; however, staying aware of your surroundings and securing your belongings is always a good practice.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The primary language spoken is English. Locals are friendly and welcoming, making it easy to communicate. Understanding a bit of local culture can enhance your experience.

Excited about exploring the tropical charm of Key West? Book your cruise holiday through CruiseAway today and embark on an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful part of Florida!