FAQ - You have questions? We have answers. Experience Key West (2024)

How much is the Key West Express?

Tickets purchased in advance and during the week are less expensive than same-day purchases and weekend travel. For more information on all of our fares, please consult our official Fare Pricing page.

Can I go to Key West one day and come back another?

Yes…we invite you to enjoy as many days on Island as you would like. Simply select your preferred date of departure and date of return when you book your travel dates.

How long does it take for the Key West Express?

While weather can play a significant role in the actual travel time, we recommend that each passenger plan on a 3.5-4 hour journey from port to port. Fortunately, passengers can enjoy freedom on our ferry that are not available on a plane or in a car, including a full bar and galley.

What may I bring onboard?

You may bring aboard two small carry-ons, free of charge. Carry-on size is not to exceed 22”x14”x9”. Any oversized piece up to 27”x21”x14” or additional carry-ons will incur a fee of $40.00 per piece round trip. Dimensions are of the utmost importance as space is limited. Security prohibits any unattended belongings of any kind be left aboard a vessel or any terminal area. Unattended belongings may be disposed of. Items of any kind are prohibited from occupying passenger seating. Additionally, you cannot bring coolers, weapons, anything flammable, illicit drugs or alcohol.

Is there storage available aboard the vessel or at the terminals?

Due to security regulations, we are not permitted to store personal items or carry-ons. We suggest you contact Paradise Porters in Key West for luggage storage or inquire at your hotel.

Are pets allowed, on the boat?

Household pets (dogs, cats, birds) are welcomed aboard for a fee, based on availability. All pets must be contained in a passenger provided carrier however, pet strollers are prohibited. Pets are PROHIBITED from occupying passenger seating, atop tables or within aisles. Failure to remove pets from any of the aforementioned may result in passenger being denied travel without liability thereto Key West Express. Larger pets that do not fit under tables or beneath passenger seats are accommodated within their passenger provided carrier on the rear exterior deck, also reserved for smoking. The fee per pet is $60.00 roundtrip. Reservations required as space is limited.

May I bring my bike onboard?

Standard size, non-motorized bicycles may be brought aboard for a fee of $90.00 per bike round trip. Bicycles are strictly limited to single seat, standard size and cannot have any attachments. Non-standard size bicycles such as recumbent or tandem style are prohibited. E-bikes or any battery operated recreational device of any kind are also prohibited. All bicycles are stored outside on the rear deck and exposed to any outside elements of marine travel. Reservations required as space is limited.

Is the ship accessible to passengers with disabilities?

Vessels are accessible by ramps to the main deck, where all amenities are located. There are no elevators to the upper seating areas so, access to these areas is limited if you are not mobile. You may operate a standard size, single person mobility device aboard.

Is the ferry faster than driving to Key West?

Under great driving conditions, Google says that it will take 5 hours 15 minutes to get from Fort Myers to Key West. That is roughly 2 hours longer of travel time than taking a Key West Express ferry. Marco Island drive time is also 4 hours 50 minutes, roughly 1.5 hours longer than a ferry. Furthermore, parking in Key West is very difficult to find and is also expensive. See our driving to Key West page for more info.

What is the Key West Express ferry schedule?