Sometimes half the fun is actually getting there, especially with the Western Express ferry service which boasts a fleet of excellent cruise ships departing daily from Fort Myers, Marco Island and Miami marinas.
It’s not really an easy road to Key West, Florida, the southernmost point of the United States. But it’s been put back, a relaxation option available in several Florida ports. Why should the passenger traffic fight on Route One that runs directly through the Keys or white tickets on a small “puddle chest” plane in Miami, let’s say to the Key West airport that does not offer direct flights and from the rest. country? But you can sail leisurely to this spirited island in luxury and style on a light sailing charter. Many Americans fly into Miami or Fort Myers airports, spend a night or two in a hotel and then go on a cruise for a few days. to spend on keys.
The Big Cat carrier, for example, is a 155-foot-long vessel that features panoramic windows, including more comfortable interior panels. chairs and large flat screen, plasma TVs. The triremes bar mixes tropical drinks and also offers a variety of food and snacks during the trip. The large sundeck at the top of the Cat consists of sitting on a cushioned seat with great sea views and the occasional dolphin spotted on the way.
The knowledgeable and efficient staff will answer any questions you may have about the boat itself or the island town of Key West. They can offer and even recommend travel suggestions, dinner ideas and a hotel offer for a short or extended stay. .
Round trip tickets for adults can be purchased from Fort Myers and Marco Island for around $130 a year. A one-way ticket is about $75. Children ages six through twelve cost $50, while children under five travel free with the exception of a minimum porting fee. Senior citizens will pay about $120 for a round-trip service and $75 for a one-way trip. Shuttles from Miami cost around $20 less than the above rates.
Daily charters from both marinas between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. depart, arriving in Key West around 12:30 p.m. Then you can enjoy a good five hours of swimming, snorkeling, shopping, dining and more before you board the ship and head back. Or you can opt to spend a few nights in paradise, visiting Mallory Square and its famous sights or Ernest Hemingway’s favorite watering hole, Sloppy Joes, before heading home. Key West cuts off the island in the evening between 5:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., the perfect time to enjoy the sparkling sunset after a fun filled day from a. comfortable cruiser
On a side note, make sure that the boat crew members know exactly what your itineraries are so that they can fit into your daily manifests. Also, each guest is allowed to carry one small duffle bag for essentials. They pack a little though; since then the West Key has been known by its codes and the casual attitude of the island. That is: tank tops, shorts and flip flops will suffice.
Leave the driving, traffic and frustration behind as you sit back and relax on the classy Key West Express shuttle. The clear waters will welcome you to America’s own paradise, in less than four hours.
