For residents and visitors of Southwest Florida, the allure of Key West—the southernmost point of the United States—is undeniable. The thought of a long, four-to-six-hour drive down the Overseas Highway, however, can be daunting. The solution? The Key West Express, a high-speed passenger ferry that transforms the journey into a relaxing, scenic cruise across the Gulf of Mexico, making a quick day trip or weekend getaway highly accessible.
This article details everything you need to know about the service, from where it departs and how much it costs, to how you can maximize a quick trip to the “Conch Republic.”
Key West Express: Location, Timing, and Pricing
The ferry service is operated by Key West Express and utilizes sleek, modern, jet-powered catamarans that are designed for speed and comfort.
Departure Locations
The service operates primarily from the Fort Myers Beach area, with a seasonal option from Marco Island.
- Fort Myers Beach Terminal (Year-Round):
- Address: 1200 Main Street, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- This is the main, year-round terminal for the ferry. Parking is available on-site for a daily fee.
- Marco Island Terminal (Seasonal):
- Address: 951 Bald Eagle Drive, Marco Island, FL 34145 (Rose Marina)
- This route typically runs seasonally, usually from December through April.
Timing and Duration
The ferry is significantly faster than driving, taking you directly from the Gulf Coast to Key West’s historic downtown docks.
| Route | Departure Time (Approx.) | Arrival Time (Approx.) | Travel Time | Time on Island (Day Trip) |
| SWFL to Key West | 8:00 AM | 12:00 PM | $\sim$ 4 hours | $\sim$ 6 hours |
| Key West to SWFL | 6:00 PM | 10:00 PM | $\sim$ 4 hours |
- Note: Boarding typically begins one hour prior to departure (7:00 AM) and is mandatory no later than 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time (7:30 AM). Travel time can vary slightly depending on weather and marine conditions.
Pricing and Fares (Estimated)
Fares are highly dynamic, depending on demand, season, and how far in advance you book. Advance booking is strongly recommended to secure the best rates and your desired travel date.
| Ticket Type | Estimated Full Fare (Round Trip) | Estimated Discounted Fare (Weekday) | Estimated One-Way Fare |
| Adult (13-61) | $\sim\$185$ | $\sim\$155$ | $\sim\$130$ |
| Senior (62+) | $\sim\$175$ | $\sim\$155$ | $\sim\$130$ |
- Discounts: Lower fares are often offered for purchases made at least 8 days in advance, and prices are generally lower for Monday through Thursday travel compared to weekends.
- Amenities: The catamarans feature air-conditioned interiors, flat-screen TVs with satellite, full-service galleys and bars, and two exterior sun decks.
- Restrictions: This is a passenger-only ferry; it does not transport cars. Non-motorized bicycles and pets (in carriers/crates) are allowed for an extra fee.
Maximizing a Quick Trip to Key West
With the Key West Express, you are typically on the island for about six hours—perfect for a whirlwind day trip. Since the ferry docks right in downtown Key West, you are immediately steps away from the island’s main attractions.
Morning (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM): History and Main Street
- Lunch: Key West is renowned for its culinary scene. Grab a fresh seafood lunch or a famous Cuban sandwich at a spot near the harbor.
- Duval Street Stroll: Walk the length of the world-famous Duval Street. It’s only about 1.2 miles long and packed with shops, art galleries, and historic bars.
- Southernmost Point Buoy: Head east (a 20-25 minute walk from the ferry dock) to take your picture at the iconic buoy marking the Southernmost Point in the Continental U.S. (Be prepared for a line!)
- Conch Tour Train: For a quick, narrated overview of the island’s history, hop aboard the Conch Tour Train. It’s a great way to see the major sites without walking the entire distance.
Afternoon (3:00 PM – 5:30 PM): Culture or Water Fun
You have two options for the final hours before boarding:
Option A: History & Culture
- Literary Stop: Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum (look for the famous six-toed cats!).
- Maritime History: Tour the Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum for stunning island views.
Option B: Water Activity
- Pier Walk: Head to Mallory Square and the surrounding piers. Book a quick, short-duration excursion like a glass-bottom boat tour or rent a jet ski for an hour.
- Beach Quick Stop: Visit Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park (a short walk or cab ride), which has one of the island’s best beaches for swimming and snorkeling.
5:30 PM: Boarding
Be sure to be back at the ferry terminal at 100 Grinnell Street by 5:30 PM for the 6:00 PM departure to ensure you don’t miss the ride back!
