Cruise port Key West (FL)
Port information & tips for Key West (FL)
Key West is the sun-drenched jewel of the Florida Keys, welcoming visitors with a unique blend of Caribbean serenity and historic charm. The island captivates with its pastel-colored wooden houses, lush tropical gardens, and a relaxed atmosphere that immediately spreads a holiday mood. Among the most significant sights are the lively Mallory Square, the legendary Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, and the famous Southernmost Point. Cruise ships prefer to dock at the central Pier B or the Mallory Square Dock, making the picturesque Old Town and the pulsating Duval Street easily accessible on foot. Thanks to this prime location, the colorful hustle and bustle of the island can be explored directly from the ship without any detours.
The Port of Key West is located at the southernmost point of the USA and impresses with its central location right by the historic city center as well as the most frequently used berths at Pier B and Mallory Square. Thanks to the island's manageable size, guests can reach the ships and sights easily via short distances.
Airplane
Key West International Airport (EYW) is located just 6 kilometers east of the cruise docks and is served via US hubs such as Miami, Atlanta, or Charlotte. Travelers from the DACH region usually fly directly to Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and reach Key West after a short domestic flight or a scenic onward journey by rental car.
Auto & Rental Car
The drive via the legendary Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1) leads across 42 bridges directly into the heart of the island and offers an impressive panorama right upon arrival. Since parking spaces in the historic center are limited, guests are best served using the central Park N’ Ride Center on Caroline Street or private parking garages such as the Old Town Garage, which provide easy access to the terminals.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from Europe and the special atmosphere of Key West, a stay of at least one night before embarkation is recommended. Many hotels in the historic old town are located in direct proximity to the port, allowing guests to explore Mallory Square and the famous Duval Street in a relaxed manner and reach the ship the next morning without time pressure.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Key West is located at the southernmost point of the USA and impresses with its central location right by the historic city center as well as the most frequently used berths at Pier B and Mallory Square. Thanks to the island's manageable size, guests can reach the ships and sights easily via short distances.
Airplane
Key West International Airport (EYW) is located just 6 kilometers east of the cruise docks and is served via US hubs such as Miami, Atlanta, or Charlotte. Travelers from the DACH region usually fly directly to Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and reach Key West after a short domestic flight or a scenic onward journey by rental car.
Auto & Rental Car
The drive via the legendary Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1) leads across 42 bridges directly into the heart of the island and offers an impressive panorama right upon arrival. Since parking spaces in the historic center are limited, guests are best served using the central Park N’ Ride Center on Caroline Street or private parking garages such as the Old Town Garage, which provide easy access to the terminals.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from Europe and the special atmosphere of Key West, a stay of at least one night before embarkation is recommended. Many hotels in the historic old town are located in direct proximity to the port, allowing guests to explore Mallory Square and the famous Duval Street in a relaxed manner and reach the ship the next morning without time pressure.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Key West is ideally located in the heart of the historic Old Town, providing visitors with quick access to the most famous sights.
On Foot
Most cruise ships dock directly at Mallory Square or Pier B, from where you can reach the famous Duval Street and the center in less than five minutes. Guests from the Outer Mole Pier can also conveniently reach the Custom House Museum in just a few minutes thanks to a complimentary shuttle.
Duval Loop Bus
This complimentary bus service circles the Old Town and stops at 18 strategically located points near the most important attractions. Additionally, classic taxis and ride-sharing services are available at the terminal exits and major hotels for individual trips.
Bicycles & Golf Carts
Numerous rental stations are located in the immediate vicinity of the port and offer a flexible way to explore the island. Thanks to its flat topography, Key West is ideal for a tour by bike or an electric golf cart, while simultaneously offering an authentic island flair.
It is best to take advantage of the short distances on the island for a relaxed walking or cycling tour to experience the charming atmosphere of Key West at its best.
Duval Street & Mallory Square
The vibrant heart of the island offers colorful wooden houses, boutiques, and cafés right by the harbor, while also serving as the perfect starting point for a stroll through the historic old town.
Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
In this history-steeped estate, you can immerse yourself in the world of the famous Nobel Prize winner and enjoy the tropical flair of the lush garden right in the center.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Thanks to its crystal-clear water and bright coral sand, this park is the ideal destination for a relaxed day at the beach and also offers a historic fort to explore.
Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is located about twenty minutes' walk from the harbour and offers a fascinating insight into the life of the world-famous author as well as the unique history of Key West. The historic estate is perfect for a cultural tour and also delights with its lush tropical garden and the legendary six-toed cats that have found a protected home throughout the grounds. Thanks to its central location in the Old Town, a visit can be ideally combined with a stroll along the famous Duval Street and offers a relaxed atmosphere far away from the hustle and bustle at the pier. It is best to start your excursion directly after arrival in the morning to experience the house in peace before the larger crowds of visitors arrive and to be back at the ship in a relaxed manner well before departure.
The journey back to the port of Key West is extremely relaxed and safe thanks to the island's compact size. Depending on your docking location, you can walk directly to the ship or use the transfer options provided by local operators.
On Foot
From popular attractions such as Duval Street or the Hemingway House, a short walk will lead you directly back to Pier B or Mallory Square. The paths are flat and very easy to find thanks to the clear layout of the Old Town and the good signage to the port.
Shuttle Service and Duval Loop
If your ship is docked at the slightly more distant Pier Outer Mole (Navy Pier), use the free trolley shuttle, which will take you comfortably from the city center through the restricted military area directly to the ship. Additionally, the free Duval Loop bus offers an easy way to get quickly to the vicinity of the port from more distant points like the Southernmost Point.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services are available at all times at central squares and in front of large hotels such as the Pier House Resort or the Ocean Key Resort. Thanks to the short distances on the island, you can reach the port gate quickly and reliably, ensuring you always have enough of a time buffer for boarding.
