Tuesday, April 2, 2024

Port of Key West Florida Ports Council

key west cruise port

Key West is one of the most popular ports in the Caribbean and passengers are introduced to the unique charm of Key West without contributing vehicular traffic to the overburdened US-1 corridor. The Key West Shipwreck Museum is near Mallory Square and the cruise ship port. It’s a small but interesting museum that focuses on the way of life of shipwreck salvagers. Located about a twenty-minute walk from the cruise port, this free public park provides lovely views out over the water. Depending on your cruise ship’s capacity and specific itinerary, you’ll arrive at one of these piers. If you start your day on a cruise ship, be sure to keep an eye on the time so you get back to the ship on time.

Learn More About Key West Shore Excursions

If you want things that are nicer quality, explore Whitehead Street where there are some more boutique shops with unique souvenirs. What’s a visit to Key West without having a bite of its famous Key Lime Pie? You’ll find it around the island, but one of the most well-known spots is The Original Key Lime Pie Bakery.

It all Starts at Duval Street

Pier B is the primary docking facility for most cruise ships, and it is a short walk from many of the city's attractions. If a ship docks at the Navy Mole, there will be a shuttle trolley available to take passengers into town. The closest beach is located in Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, which is approximately a 20-minute walk from the cruise port. Visitors can also take advantage of water sports and beach activities offered at certain excursions or opt for a day pass to one of the many resorts on the island. 1969 saw the first-ever, call of a cruise ship to Key West, and at first, the town was not a popular destination.

Tips and Things to Know About Visiting Mahogany Bay (Roatan) on a Cruise

key west cruise port

Key West has a rich maritime history, dating back to the early 19th century when it was a bustling hub for shipping and naval activities. Things to do on your Key West Cruise Excursion; Key West port adventures, activities, attractions, events and more. Cruises that stop in Key West help the world become familiar with the city’s culture and history.

CRUISE PORTS BY REGION

On your way from Mallory Square to the Southernmost Point, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is on Duval. It showcases over 60 species of butterflies, colorful birds, and flowers. If you are traveling with kids or have a high interest in nature, then I would recommend you stop to enjoy the relaxing displays.

Harry S. Truman Little White House

Any tourist destination can attract unscrupulous individuals looking for the blissfully unaware visitor. When exploring the island, it is important for tourists to keep valuables hidden, not leave personal belongings unattended, and be aware of their surroundings at all times. The Conch Republic Independence Celebration takes place every year in April to commemorate the day when Key West declared itself an independent nation on April 23, 1982. This declaration was made in response to an incident at a US Border Patrol checkpoint where vehicles were being stopped and searched, causing major traffic delays and economic harm to the island. In protest of this action, then-mayor Dennis Wardlow declared war on the United States and immediately surrendered, requesting $1 million in foreign aid. The event is now celebrated with parades, parties, and other fun activities, showcasing Key West’s unique and rebellious spirit.

This piece of land, which was once the functional Fort Jefferson, is now turned into a park with rich beauty and teeming with marine life. Other than touring the well-preserved decor and furnishings of the house that make up the museum’s exhibit. You will also get to meet cats from snow white’s lineage (Hemmingway’s beloved six-toed cat) who was owned by the family. This home is now considered the heart of downtown Key West and is now a museum.

The arts, watersports, and historical sites are some of my favorite things to explore while in town. However, the city recently held a referendum on whether to limit the number of cruise ships that can visit the port. The referendum passed, and the city will now limit the number of daily passengers to 1,500.

Historical Background

Key West is a popular destination for cruise ships, with plenty to see and do in the area. However, for those who want to explore beyond the city limits, there are several nearby destinations worth considering. Overall, Key West offers a wide range of attractions and sightseeing opportunities for visitors to enjoy. Whether visitors want to explore the city's history or enjoy its natural beauty, there is something for everyone in Key West. Key West is a paradise for tourists who want to explore the city's rich history and natural beauty. There are plenty of attractions and sightseeing opportunities for visitors to enjoy.

Live music, comedy shows, and dance clubs are all available for guests to enjoy during their stay. In Key West, the majority of the city’s bars, clubs, and restaurants can be found along Duval Street, which is considered to be the epicenter of the city’s nightlife. It is important to keep in mind that the weather in Key West can be difficult to predict, which can have an effect on cruise itineraries. Because of this, it is essential to check in with the cruise line before setting sail. Tours Key West offers shore excursions for every time commitment during your Key West shore time.

Some areas may have strong currents or marine life that can be dangerous for swimming. Be sure to also stay hydrated and wear sunscreen while enjoying the beach. Additionally, keep an eye out for any potential weather changes and seek shelter if necessary.

Striking Photos Show Why Some Cities Are Trying to Ban Cruise Ships - Business Insider

Striking Photos Show Why Some Cities Are Trying to Ban Cruise Ships.

Posted: Wed, 25 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

You’ll find this half-mile stretch of white sand is the largest public beach in Key West. If you have time, drive less than an hour northeast to Bahia Honda for the kind of Florida beach experience the state is famous for. Hold sea stars, hermit crabs, and conches in the palm of your hands in the “touch tank” of the Key West Aquarium, plus enjoy free guided tours and maybe even a shark feeding session.

Lastly but not least, you cannot say you have been to Key West if you didn’t join in on the island’s sunset-watching celebration at Mallory Square. There are many art galleries at your disposal, whether you intend to buy or just be inspired. You can spend an hour here with the dolphins learning and discovering, or you can spend the entire day. Some dolphin sessions you may find interesting include high-flying acrobatics and husbandry training.

The move to secede was short-lived but remains a point of pride for Key Westers, who still fly the blue "Conch Republic" flag in the subtropical heat and ocean breezes. Key West was first settled in 1822 and by 1886 had become America's richest city per capita. Compact, cozy and adorable, the city's Old Town neighborhood is filled with cottages with gingerbread-topped porches, Victorian compounds, sidewalk cafes, cigar stands and T-shirt shops. Residential throughout, every sign, window and awning in Old Town must pass scrutiny of the city-appointed Historic Architectural Review Commission. Catch a Key West sunset from Mallory Square, a waterfront plaza facing the Gulf of Mexico. Mallory Square is the site of a long-running tradition to watch the sunset.

The initiative was later overturned and the city, the state, and Mark Walsh, the Pier B cruise port owner, have locked horns ever since. A visit to Key West would not be complete without exploring the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. There are numerous museums in this town, but this one really stands out.

However, these beaches being public and near touristy regions makes them susceptible to overcrowding. If you fancy a secluded beach, then a trip to Zachary Taylor Fort‘s beach will do you right. The rear sterncastle of these ships remains lost and is rumored to contain over 120,000 silver coins, 10,000 gold coins, and even emeralds that may be buried in the sand. If you are a qualified diver, you can join this week-long course and scour the bottom of the ocean in search of lost treasure. This establishment has been in Key West for more than a century and is located right off of Duval Street on the corner of Whitehead Street.

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Port of Key West Florida Ports Council

Table Of Content Learn More About Key West Shore Excursions It all Starts at Duval Street Tips and Things to Know About Visiting Mahogany Ba...