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Key West Express Fort Myers Beach

4.5

·2k reviews·Fort Myers Beach, United States

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

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning Departures

Maximize your Key West day

CrowdMedium

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Key West Express Fort Myers Beach

Best Time

Morning Departures

Maximize your Key West day

CrowdMedium

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.

4.5

(2k reviews)

"A cool way to get to and from Key West, saving you the long drive and offering a relaxing journey."

TIP

🎯 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!

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 2,133 reviews

Address

1200 Main St, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931, USA

Website

keywestexpress.net/?utm_source=Listing&utm_medium=FMB&utm_campaign=GMB

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your spot on the Key West Express, especially during peak season. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred seating and avoids disappointment. Consider round-trip tickets for convenience.

Arrive Early for Best Seats

Boarding is first-come, first-served. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to snag desirable seats, like banquettes or tables on the first floor. The sun can be intense on certain sides, so plan accordingly.

Best Times

When

Morning Departures

Why

Maximize your Key West day

Crowd

Medium

When

Late Afternoon Returns

Why

Catch the sunset views

Crowd

Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Would you rather fly, drive, or boat into Key West? ✈️ 🚗 🛥 #hiddengem #weekendtrip #florida #keywest #fortmyers #naples #marcoisland #roadtrip

@just.take.a.dip

56.4K likes • 797.3K views

🎯 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!

Florida has so many great vacation spots to enjoy not just for tourist but for residents. We decided to take the Key West Express Boat from Ft. Myers to Key West for the day. We had so much fun! Best way to get to Key West from SW Florida! #floridavacation #keywest #keywestexpress #sarasotarealtor #floridarealtor #floridaplaces #floridadestinations #floridarrealtor #boattrip #daygetaway #ftmeyers ...

@sarasotarealtorkatrin

44.1K likes • 1.6M views

Jumped on the Key West Express from Fort Myers Beach and in just a few breezy hours, we were living the island dream! ✨🛥️ Whether you’re scouting real estate or just craving a tropical escape, it doesn’t get easier than this. A seamless weekend getaway from SWFL — no flights, no stress, just ocean views and Hemingway vibes. And the best part…small dogs are allowed on board! 🐶 Bring your furry fou...

garyinswfl

17 likes • 442 views

💰 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.

𝐈𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐮𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠... The gentle glow of the sunrise over San Carlos Bay, the sound of the water, and watching the Key West Express glide across the horizon on its daily voyage. This isn’t just a view; it’s a living postcard, a daily reminder of the adventures that await, all from the privacy of your own home. At 441 Estero Blvd, this isn’t a dream—it’s your reality. ...

leanesuarezgroup

17 likes • 446 views

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

4.5

(2k reviews)

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

Convenient alternative to driving

Scenic ocean views

Pet-friendly policy

What People Dislike

Open seating requires early arrival

No Wi-Fi or cell service

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. +1

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. +1

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.