Key West Express Fort Myers Beach
The Key West Express offers a scenic and convenient ferry service from Fort Myers Beach to the vibrant island of Key West.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Maximize your Key West day
Key West Express Fort Myers Beach
Best Time
Maximize your Key West day
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The Key West Express offers a scenic and convenient ferry service from Fort Myers Beach to the vibrant island of Key West.
"A cool way to get to and from Key West, saving you the long drive and offering a relaxing journey."
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Get there 30 mins before boarding for best seats! Banquettes & tables are popular.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Sun can be intense on certain sides. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Gulf Crossing
Onboard the Key West Express
Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze as you journey to Key West. Relax and soak in the Florida sunshine.
Direct Access to Duval Street
Key West
Arrive just steps away from Key West's vibrant heart, Duval Street, with its famous bars, restaurants, and shops.
Comfortable Onboard Experience
Onboard the Key West Express
Relax in air-conditioned comfort or enjoy the open deck. A full-service bar and snacks are available for your journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Arrive Early for Best Seats
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Get there 30 mins before boarding for best seats! Banquettes & tables are popular.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Sun can be intense on certain sides. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses!
💰 Bring Cash for Extras
For raffles, galley purchases, and tips. Tabs can be opened, but cash is preferred.
📵 No Cell Service Onboard
Prepare to disconnect! There's no Wi-Fi or cell service for the 3-4 hour trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Get there 30 mins before boarding for best seats! Banquettes & tables are popular.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Sun can be intense on certain sides. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses!
💰 Bring Cash for Extras
For raffles, galley purchases, and tips. Tabs can be opened, but cash is preferred.
📵 No Cell Service Onboard
Prepare to disconnect! There's no Wi-Fi or cell service for the 3-4 hour trip.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Travel
Small dogs are welcome aboard, adding to the convenience for pet owners!
🌊 Smooth Ride, Mostly
The double-hull boat offers a smooth ride, but motion sickness medication might be wise for bumpy days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers generally praise the Key West Express for its convenience and scenic journey to Key West, offering a relaxing alternative to driving. The onboard amenities and pet-friendly policy are frequently highlighted as positives, though securing preferred seating requires arriving early.
"Cool way to get to and from Key West. 3.5 hours going down there. 4 hours coming back. There is a bar and comfortable seating throughout. Get there when boarding begins for the best seats. I recommend first floor in a banquette or 6-top table. Keep in mind sun on the left headed down to KeyWest, sun also on the left side headed back. Sun is pretty intense on the way back, so don’t sit right next to the windows on the left side."
Matthew McCallister
"My husband and I have talked about taking the Key West Express each time we visit Florida and had just never gotten around to it.
We had a really great round trip from Fort Meyers. The crew was welcoming and very helpful. The bathrooms were clean and well-kept.
We spent the trip down sitting on the open-air deck, which was windy and loud, like riding in a convertible. Wear plenty of sunscreen if you plan to do that, and hold on to your sunglasses and hats.
Be sure to bring cash for the raffle, purchases from the galley, and tips. It is possible to open a tab in the galley, to close out at the end of the trip, but they prefer not having to do that.
There is no cell phone or wifi service, so come prepared to entertain yourself old school for four hours."
Shawntel Wilson
"1st time using the ferry. Very relaxing vs driving. There is a full bar hot food & snacks. It is open seating. Being a double hull boat the trip was smooth. If you walk you can sense the motion a little."
Jeff Farkas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is the Key West Express ferry, departing daily from Fort Myers Beach. The journey takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, offering a relaxing alternative to driving. 
The Key West Express terminal in Fort Myers Beach is conveniently located, making it easily accessible for travelers. Check their official website for the exact address and directions.
Yes, parking is available at the Fort Myers Beach terminal. It's advisable to check the Key West Express website for current parking fees and availability, especially during busy periods.
Yes, the Key West Express also departs from Marco Island, offering another convenient departure point for reaching Key West.
The ferry ride from Fort Myers Beach to Key West typically takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on the return trip conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Key West Express website for the most up-to-date pricing for round-trip or one-way tickets. Booking in advance is recommended.
You can purchase Key West Express tickets directly from their official website or at the terminal. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, keep an eye on their website or social media for potential promotions. Sometimes, booking round-trip can offer better value.
The Key West Express operates daily, with departures in the morning and returns in the afternoon. Always check their official schedule for the exact departure and arrival times for your desired travel dates.
Yes, small dogs are welcome aboard the Key West Express, making it a convenient option for travelers with pets.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Seating is open and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Options include comfortable banquettes, tables, and traditional seating. Arrive early for the best choices.
Yes, the Key West Express has a full-service bar and offers hot food and snacks for purchase onboard. You can also open a tab.
No, there is no cell phone service or Wi-Fi available on the Key West Express during the journey. Come prepared to entertain yourself old-school.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and potentially motion sickness medication if you're prone to seasickness. Cash is also recommended for onboard purchases and tips.
The ferry is a double-hull boat, generally providing a smooth ride. However, conditions can vary, and some passengers may experience choppiness.
📸 📸 Photography
The open-air decks offer fantastic panoramic views of the Gulf. The bow of the boat can also provide dramatic shots, but be mindful of safety and wind.
Morning departures offer beautiful sunrise light, while afternoon returns can provide stunning sunset views, especially from the port side.
It's possible to spot dolphins or seabirds during the journey. Keep your camera ready, but be aware that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of other passengers and avoid using flash photography in enclosed areas.
Expect scenic shots of the ocean, the coastline, other boats, and potentially unique weather phenomena like waterspouts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since there's no Wi-Fi or cell service, bring entertainment like books, games, or tablets (fully charged!) to keep kids occupied during the 3.5-4 hour journey. The open seating allows families to spread out a bit, and the onboard snacks can be a lifesaver for hungry travelers. Consider booking round-trip tickets for a seamless experience.
🐶 Pet Owners
Ensure your dog is comfortable in a carrier or on a leash for the duration of the trip. The open-air decks might offer more space and comfort for pets, but always keep them secure and supervised. This pet-friendly policy is a significant advantage for many travelers looking for a comprehensive Florida Keys experience.
🚗 Drivers Avoiding the Drive
By taking the ferry, you can relax, enjoy the scenery, and arrive directly in the heart of Key West, ready to explore. This makes it a popular choice for day-trippers or those on a short getaway who want to maximize their time on the island.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Planning Your Ferry Trip
+1When planning your trip, it's crucial to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. This ensures you secure your preferred travel dates and times. Upon arrival at the terminal, arrive at least 30 minutes prior to boarding to get the best available seats. Open seating means popular spots like banquettes and tables fill up quickly.
Consider the seating arrangements based on the time of day. The sun can be quite intense on certain sides of the boat during the journey. For instance, the sun is on the left side when heading down to Key West and also on the left side when returning. Planning your seating accordingly can enhance your comfort.
Life Aboard the Key West Express
+1For your convenience, a full-service bar is available onboard, offering a variety of beverages. You can also purchase hot food and snacks to enjoy during your trip. While it's possible to open a tab, the crew often prefers cash transactions for galley purchases and tips, so it's a good idea to have some cash on hand.
It's important to note that there is no cell phone service or Wi-Fi available during the journey. This means you'll have about four hours to disconnect and entertain yourself old-school, perhaps with a book or by simply enjoying the ocean views. For those prone to seasickness, it's wise to bring medication, as the ride can sometimes be bumpy depending on the sea conditions.
Navigating Fort Myers Beach Post-Hurricane Ian
Despite the challenges, the Key West Express remains a symbol of resilience and a crucial link for tourism and local travel. The service continues to operate, offering a gateway to Key West and supporting the economic recovery of the region.
+1Community efforts, such as waterway cleanups, highlight the dedication to restoring the beauty of Southwest Florida. The Key West Express has shown support for these initiatives, underscoring its role within the local community.
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