Key West may feel like it’s a world away, but the fact is, it’s really only a hop, skip and a jump from the mainland. Driving through the Florida Keys should definitely be on everybody’s bucket list. This romantic drive through the Keys has long been immortalized in many a novel, but getting stuck in gridlock traffic isn’t so romantic! And while flying over the Gulf of Mexico is a sight to behold, it’s not quite the same as the next option. What if you could dance across the waves to this beautiful island city in less than four hours? If you can get yourself to Fort Myers Beach or Marco Island, the Key West Express will be your chariot to the magical island of Key West. This high speed ferry skips across the warm waters of the Gulf, leaving you to contemplate all the amazing things you’re going to do when you get there. So you may be asking yourself, why the Key West Express when there are so many other ways to get here?
1) Quick and Easy
Catching the Key West Express is a cinch. With departure points at Fort Myers Beach and San Marcos Island, you don’t have to concern yourself with fighting airport crowds, highway traffic or anything of the sort. All you have to do is get to the port, the rest is easy. When you buy a round trip ticket, you don’t necessarily have to pick a return date, which is great, because Key West isn’t just a day trip, it’s a destination. You can take two small pieces of carry-on luggage, and pay extra for larger pieces. You can also bring your bicycle, and even a pet, if you have one with you!
2) Comfortable
There is nothing comfortable about sitting cramped in a car, air conditioning blasting, stuck somewhere on the freeway when you could be sitting in some fabulous restaurant patio, sipping margaritas, while watching dolphins play in the midst. Skip all at that nonsense, and delight in the comforts of the Key West Express. An indoor air conditioned lounge is available for those seeking refuge from the sun, and for those who love the feel of a tropical wind whipping their hair back, there is plenty of room on the outside deck. If you get hungry, you’ll find snack, beer and wine, and a selection of mixed soft drinks available on the ship’s galley and bar.
3) Affordable
With the growing cost of fuel these days, driving through the Keys is an expensive endeavour, especially when you consider the round trip cost. Traveling 300 miles by car from Fort Myers to Key West would cost a pretty penny, but the round trip cost on the Key West Express makes the journey affordable. Also, If you’re willing to travel during the week, there are always weekly specials available. Children under the age of five only pay applicable fees and surcharges, and if you’re traveling in a group of 15 or more, there are also discounts.
Out of all the ways to get to Key West, the Key West Express is only way to get there in style. There are a limited number of spots on board, so make sure to reserve your spot soon. The magic of Key West awaits!
