Plan a CruiseKey West Cruise Port Guide
Key West, the USA's southernmost city at the tip of the Florida Keys and the end of US Highway 1, offers independent cruise passengers a vibrant and unique experience. This historic island city boasts a distinct Caribbean flavor, with palm-lined streets, tropical plants, and pastel-painted wooden "gingerbread" houses. It has attracted literary greats like Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams, and is known for its relaxed atmosphere, colorful neighborhoods, and lively dining scene. With 8-10 hours in port, you'll find plenty to explore in this compact and walkable destination.
Most cruise ships dock at Mallory Square or the Truman Annex (Pier B), both conveniently located within easy walking distance of Old Town and just two blocks from Duval Street. If your ship docks at the Outer Mole Pier (also known as Navy Mole), trolleys will provide shuttle service directly into Old Town. For ships at anchor, tenders will bring you ashore to the Old Town section of the harbor.
Getting Around from the Port
Key West is a very walkable city, especially Old Town. From Mallory Square or Truman Annex piers, Duval Street is only two blocks away, putting you right in the heart of the action. If your ship docks at the Outer Mole Pier, complimentary trolleys will shuttle you into Old Town.
For exploring beyond the main walking areas, metered taxis are available, though most central attractions are accessible on foot. Driving a car in Key West is challenging, and parking is expensive. Many visitors opt to rent motor scooters, bicycles, or golf carts for local transport.
A convenient option is the free Duval Loop hop-on/hop-off bus service. It runs through Old Town, connecting the City's Park and Ride on Grinnell Street, along Caroline Street, up Whitehead Street, and back down Simonton to Fleming, providing easy access to restaurants, galleries, shops, and theaters.
For a narrated overview of the city, consider the Conch Tour Train or the Old Town Trolley. The closest beach, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, is about a 20-minute walk from the main pier areas.
Attractions and Activities
With 8-10 hours, Key West offers a mix of historic sights, leisurely strolls, and water activities:
- Explore Old Town and Duval Street: This is a must-do. Wander the streets lined with historic architecture, browse the many unique shops (known for "unique, exceptional, and even outrageous" items), and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Shopping and bar-hopping are popular pastimes.
- Visit Historic Homes & Museums:
- Hemingway Home: Explore the former residence of Ernest Hemingway, where he lived and wrote for over a decade. (Walkable)
- Audubon House & Tropical Gardens: Step back in time to a mid-19th century maritime pilot's home and gardens. (Walkable)
- Custom House: An imposing Richardsonian Romanesque building that once housed the island’s customs office. (Walkable)
- Other options include a butterfly conservatory, aquarium, and various interesting museums.
- Water Activities from The Bight (Old Harbor): Head to the old harbor to arrange sea trips for fishing, snorkeling, or diving. Operators offer everything from big game fishing to scuba diving. Sunset sails on tall ships are also popular, though you might need to plan carefully to return to your ship in time.
- Relax at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach: The closest beach, a 20-minute walk from the main docking areas, offers facilities and picnic tables, along with various water sports.
- Scenic City Tours: The Conch Tour Train or Old Town Trolley provide excellent narrated tours, covering 400 years of history and offering a great overview if you prefer not to walk extensively.
- Dolphin Research Center (Grassy Key): For those seeking an excursion outside Key West, the Dolphin Research Center is located on Grassy Key (58901 Overseas Highway), approximately an hour's drive away. They offer half-day education programs, walking tours, and a "dolphin encounter" where you can spend 20 minutes swimming with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. This requires significant travel time and planning to fit within an 8-10 hour port call.
Dining & Shopping
Key West boasts around 250 restaurants, making it a fantastic destination for dining. Seafood is a local specialty, and many establishments offer al fresco dining. You'll find a high concentration of legendary bars and restaurants along Duval Street and in the historic Bahama Village area.
Shopping is a popular activity, with numerous stores offering unique and memorable souvenirs. Buskers often provide impromptu entertainment for those browsing or lingering at sidewalk cafes.
When dining and shopping in the U.S., be aware that prices typically do not include sales tax or gratuities. Sales tax in Florida is generally 4-6% and will be added to your total at checkout. Tipping is customary and expected for services:
- Full-service restaurants: 15-20% (often the primary income for waitstaff).
- Taxi drivers, hairdressers, personal services: 10-15%.
- Bartenders: $1 per drink or 15% of the total.
- Bellhops: $1-2 per bag (minimum $3-5 regardless).
- Tour guides: $5-10 per person for half-day tours, $10-20 for longer tours.
The official language is English, and emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.