Key West, Florida
This is one of our favorite cruise ports. Still in the United States but with a feel of a tropical island, there is so much to do. Great excursions are offered here, although you can also take advantage of your cruise ship docking right at the port and explore on your own. A few of the sights you don't want to miss here are Ernest Hemingway's home, the marked southernmost point of the United States, Duval Street with numerous bars and great nightlife, and many wonderful museums. If your ship is docked around sundown, definitely head to an ocean view for the most fabulous sunsets you've ever seen.
Be prepared to walk a bit if you choose to do it this way, but it's typically very safe to sign up for local tours on the pier after your disembark, grab a trolley or taxi to take you to the beach, or walk around on your own and experience the culture, shopping and delicacies. As always, be mindful of the time the ship departs if you decide to venture out on your own.
Be prepared to walk a bit if you choose to do it this way, but it's typically very safe to sign up for local tours on the pier after your disembark, grab a trolley or taxi to take you to the beach, or walk around on your own and experience the culture, shopping and delicacies. As always, be mindful of the time the ship departs if you decide to venture out on your own.
For additional pictures, examples and descriptions of a few excursions and activities offered in Key West, see my Recommended Key West Excursions.
I typically recommend always taking a ship sponsored excursion; however, Key West is a perfect port to walk off the ship and explore on your own by foot. You'll find numerous historic sights, as well as shops, restaurants, bars and my favorite, KEY LIME PIE, close to the ship. See a Map of Key West for a city map to help plan your own walking tour.
