What should have been a fun and relaxing experience ended up being a mix of excellent transportation and some of the worst customer service we've encountered. We were a party of five, including one child under 12. We arrived very early for our departure. The gentleman directing traffic made me drive all the way around another lane, even though there wasn't a single car behind me, just so I could pull up next to him. It seemed unnecessary, but not a huge deal. The first real disappointment came at the ticket window around 6:30 a.m. The woman working there was incredibly rude, short-tempered, and dismissive. A smile or a simple "good morning" would have gone a long way. If working with people has become that frustrating, perhaps customer service isn't the right position. The ferry ride itself was fantastic! The boat was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The restrooms, both at the terminal and onboard, were spotless, and the crew on the ferry was friendly and professional. The ride to Key West was one of the highlights of our trip. Unfortunately, our vacation was cut short when one member of our group experienced a heart-related medical issue, forcing us to return a day early. We called the company and were told we could take the Sunday evening ferry back, which sounded accommodating at first. However, we were then charged an additional $60 per person--including the child--even though we already had round-trip tickets. On top of that, we received no refund or credit for the parking. We had prepaid $40 for two nights, but because we returned later than planned, we ended up paying for a third day as well. Considering the parking lot was nearly empty, some flexibility or goodwill would have been appreciated during a medical emergency. We were instructed to arrive after 1:00 p.m. to pick up our boarding passes for the 6:00 p.m. departure. We arrived at 1:30 p.m. and were immediately told we were "late" and would now be assigned to Group B boarding. The woman at the counter was shockingly rude. She rolled her eyes, spoke to us in a belittling tone, and even stated that she was "over 65 and doesn't give a s*** anymore dealing with people." I've never heard a customer service employee speak that way to paying customers. The experience only got worse. When Group A boarding was called, I stood up because I thought it was our turn. The same employee actually rushed out from behind the counter waving her arms and motioning for me to sit back down, as if I had done something wrong. It was embarrassing, unnecessary, and completely unprofessional. It's unfortunate because the ferry itself is excellent. The boat, the ride, and the onboard staff deserve five stars. Unfortunately, the employees at the ticket counter turned what should have been a wonderful experience into a stressful and unpleasant one. We travel often and understand that emergencies happen. A little compassion, professionalism, and kindness would have made all the difference. Instead, we left feeling like we were an inconvenience. Sadly, despite loving the ferry ride itself, our entire group agreed that next time we'd rather drive the seven hours from Sarasota than deal with the ticket office again. 2/5 stars One star for the wonderful ferry ride and onboard crew. One star for the clean, comfortable boat. The remaining three stars were lost because of the consistently rude, dismissive, and unprofessional customer service at the ticket office. read more

I am writing to formally register a complaint regarding an incident that occurred this evening at your boarding terminal prior to my departure on the Key West Express overnight trip. Before boarding, I approached the ticket counter and politely inquired whether any accommodation was available for passengers with disabilities -- specifically, whether additional boarding time could be extended to allow my wife and me to safely get situated on an otherwise fully packed vessel. I am a United States military veteran rated at 70% service-connected disability, with documented mobility limitations. This was not a request for preferential treatment. It was a reasonable, good-faith inquiry. The response I received from your employee -- an elderly woman with red-dyed hair working in an apparent supervisory capacity -- was wholly unacceptable. She rolled her eyes at me upon hearing my request, and the tone and manner in which she addressed me conveyed open contempt and dismissiveness. For an employee in a position of public-facing authority, this conduct is not only unprofessional -- it is a reflection of the culture your organization permits. I want to be direct: individuals responsible for public safety and passenger operations must be held to a higher standard. There is no place for this behavior in any customer-facing role, and certainly not in one where the well-being of passengers -- including those with disabilities -- depends on respectful, attentive service. Furthermore, as a disabled veteran, I expect the same basic dignity afforded to any paying customer. I did not ask for recognition or special status. I asked for two extra minutes. The disrespect I received in return was inexcusable. I trust that Key West Express or the terminal that employees this person takes matters of this nature seriously. read more

The good: Saves time getting from Fort Myers to Key West. Saves the aggravation of parking in Key West. If the boat is half empty and you can spread out, the seats are not terrible. You can get up and walk around. There are bathrooms. There is reasonably priced food. There is a full bar. The bad: In Key West you have to arrive before 1pm to line up to get a boarding letter. If you aren't in one of the early groups called you may not be sitting with your party, or you may be sitting in an undesirable spot. Then, you come back for boarding. This takes hours out of your day. Checking in online would be more beneficial to everyone; I would think. I'm glad we tried it but we probably won't do it again. read more

So convenient to take and the staff if very friendly and helpful. They sell snacks and alcohol.

This is a great way to get from Fort Meyers to Miami. The staff from the parking lot to ticketing to boarding to transport to disembarking were all friendly, happy, informative and competent. The boat itself is very fast. It's a catamaran style and handles rough seas well. It does have limits as does every ship and human passenger. If the waves go over 6 feet (rare) consider Dramamine or staying where you are another night and taking a different trip. The boat is very clean. The cruise is fast. The food is terrible. Bring your own. read more

Key West Express - Ferries Near Me - Key West, Florida

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I went on a trip to Key West via the Key West Express Cruise with my husband and my brother-in-law, and we all had a pretty good time. The staff onboard were very friendly and courteous. I liked the variety of seating options inside and outside. Alcohol selection was okay but could have had a better selection of craft beers available. Food selection onboard was just okay as well. The entire trip on the cruise down to Key West and then back to Fort Myers Beach was peaceful and fun. Inside of the cruise ship, almost reminded me of that of an airplane. Overall, great experience!Definitely recommend! read more

My #1 piece of advice is get to the pier early to secure a spot in line and get the best seat. There are a few couch style seats that go really fast. #2 would be download something to watch for the 4 hour ride. After about 30 min you'll lose wifi and cell signal. #3 HIT THE BAR! I did not expect the extensive selection so I was pleasantly surprised. From mimosa to coffee with baileys to rum punch they'd got you covered. #4 The food on board isn't at all what I thought it would be and I mean that on a good way. Great assortment of snack items to hold you over. Lastly I want to say how amazing the entire crew is! Great service and the best personalities! read more

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Was so looking forward to this boat trip, it was nothing like what I expected. It was almost impossible to walk to the restroom or to get a snack from the bar, due to the rocking of the boat. The weather was horrible, only had a small area up top to sit, so we had to sit inside. The crew were not helpful seeing how we were struggling with our bags, they didn't offer us any help on our way back. Definitely do not recommend. read more

This is a pretty easy review. While I understand that not a single bad review will ever cause change to any transportation company like this company in any tourist destination, I do feel if I can prevent one person from making the mistake I made then it is worth it. My mistake was to use this service. Someone replying from the comfort of an office to the many poor yelp reviews or criticism on other social media platforms can easily state what their policy is, the federal government policies are and they can say they're sorry all day and night but if staff and management do not recognize their poor behaviors and implement simple fixes to change then nothing will ever change. To me, the company will not feel a single financial pain from any bad reviews because there is always another user to take our dissatisfied place. They just won't get my business any longer and hopefully one person reads this and saves them from the aggravation I experienced. Time.. if you are living in the Naples / Fort Myers area you have to arrive one hour in advance of departure time . Which means if you have to drive 30 minutes to 45 minutes to get to the departure location one hour in advance. The trip is then 3 1/2 hours long. You must weigh your time because it might be shorter to drive four hours to Key West than it is to wake up early, drive, wait in a line to get onboard and go early in the morning. Cost wise you might save. Because you have to pay for parking in addition to the boat trip. Attitude.. I am a customer, my party of two paid a lot of money to park for 4 days and take a round trip from Fort Myers to Key West. To be referred to as "pal" is insulting to me especially since you've never met me and your approaching me because of an unpleasant interaction with a staff member of yours. I told you mine but you never told me yours until I asked. The assumption that everyone boarding from Key West to Fort Myers is intoxicated or should be talked to gruffly is an inaccurate assumption. Customer Service..Let's just say it's lacking except when it suits them. They do an excellent announcement twice while onboard, once upon departure and while arriving when the implore you to tip them and to look for a tip bucket upon leaving the ramp. Management should pay their employees more if the need to beg for cash tips and I'm wondering if they're anything like my staff which is required by law to declare those tips to the government? Mine legally do, do yours? Not a good position to put your employees in without having them being properly trained. Training.. I am sure the state and federal government do the correct inspections and check for your paperwork. That is not a question here. What I'm wondering is if your internal policies are posted anywhere? Online? Training your staff has? I wonder if your employees are properly trained in customer service and how to deal with passengers that are intoxicated, passengers that simply have a question and don't wish to have their head bit off and if all your employees are trained in CPR. Not only do some of your customers look like they're in a certain medical condition ( high risk category) but some staff members are considerably at risk with their physical condition. Wifi.. in the 21 st century isn't available because you want us to relax and not worry about the world because we're escaping to Key West vacationland. I'll tell you what, you expound about COVID in your message over the loud speaker, you have tv's all over the place yet you don't give us a choice for wifi? Really? You're to cheap!! Other yelpers mentioned the buying of the tickets is an odd and cumbersome approach. I agree. The website is confusing and the multiple email confirmations with paying for parking etc is just to much. read more

Key West Express - Rude rude rude. One of the reasons not to travel on the Key west express. - Ferries Near Me - Key West, Florida

A great way to get to Key West if you want to go for a day. Word of warning, the return trip fills up VERY quickly and you may not get a place to sit. Very crowded. You have to get in the line by 4 for the 6 o'clock return. Doesn't give you much time on the island since the ship doesn't get there until 1130 read more

What a great way to travel from main land Florida to the keys. We took from Ft Meyers to Key west. They have a large and customer service oriented staff. Bar/food to order. Bring downloads or book..no wifi, which really isn't expected when you're in the middle of the ocean. Our seas were very calm, but this is a boat and if you have waves, you may want to change plans..there is no where to go if you get sea sick. Anyway, great time on the ride very comfortable, nice to let some else do the driving. Will use again. read more

First time ferry they de and I must say that it was an experience. The process is a bit chaotic to say the least, but it alleviates you from driving. There's no wifi for the four hour ride so be sure to download a movie or two. The food onboard is tourist priced so be prepared for the over priced hot dog and small cup of soda for the cost of a whole bottle. At least I can say I did it, but my next trip to KW will be a quick one hour flight. read more

Just fly. People show up hours before to get seats. Lines at the ferry terminal in Key West make no sense. The move people up into 2 lines facing each other. Makes it hard to use the bathroom and have people on top of each other. There are at least 10 better ways to accomplish this but staff could care less. Bags got wet on the return trip. I have been threatened with divorce if I even mention taking this again. The whole experience is the 8th circle of hell and no upgrades to get better service or not have to show up at 4pm for a "6pm" departure. We did leave at 530pm so make sure you heed their warnings even though it says 6pm departure on the ticket. Again just change it to 530 if you are leaving at 530. Crew was good in rough seas back to Ft Myers with 1/4 of the boat getting sick in 5 ft seas. read more

Traveled 6/1/2023 The trip from FMB to Key West was fine. Staff on board were lively and attentive. Folks who gripe about the boarding times or that "tips" are appreciated have likely never worked in a true service position. Those we saw on this trip were continuously hustling, whether it was checking lines, pulling in ramps, handling food/drink requests, dealing with lavatories, etc. They earned those tips. Bum deal however for the on-board tickets to the e-cars/glorified golf carts claiming a discount? NO. You can get better, newer access to such golf carts, Vespas, bikes, e-bikes, etc. on the island. We got gyped into $1q39 (at a discount) for only 4 hours when these others offered 6-hour options for $120. Sucked too that you'll pay to park those babies everywhere you're going to try and see. Trip was worth the experience. Staff was friendly. Hope they got a kickback from the crappy e-cars. read more

Great way to get from ft Myers to key west Great crew and the price is reasonable The trip takes about 2.5 to 3 hours and it is a clean and comfortable boat It gets really packed on the way back from key west especially on Sunday so get to the terminal early We arrived at 4 for a 6 o'clock departure and was in a long line to get on, and seats fill up fast read more

Sometimes you think that you'll beat the system by showing up early, and waiting in line like a normal citizen. Little do you know; stepping into "their" arena opens a web of lies.... you're actually at the back!!!! Of the line... what a freaking crime. Key west - we had a great honeymoon. KeyWest Express - you ruined it read more

Key West Express - Over crowded - Ferries Near Me - Key West, Florida

***COVID WARNING*** We took the Key West Express on two trip legs and were honestly really disgusted by the fact that maybe 10% of the passengers, AT MOST, wore masks. EVEN THE STAFF DIDN'T WEAR THEIR MASKS, as they walked around the boat and chatted with passengers. I'm sure that's a pretty gross FTA violation (yes, ferries are governed by the FTA and are subject to strict rules, regulations, penalties, and fines!). We were told that passengers were required to wear masks, except while actively eating and drinking. Apparently that didn't mean anything to the staff or the passengers because virtually everyone was going about like Covid didn't even exist. Talking, eating, laughing, DRINKING like fish (very much encouraged on this boat), and carrying on...maskless...in the middle of a pandemic. It was horrifying. I'm immunocompromised and, despite being vaccinated, do rely on others to wear their masks so I don't get sick. I doubt most of the people on this boat were even vaccinated, which makes it even more scary. I'm not sure how to put this politely, but the clientele on the boat seemed to care only about themselves and didn't have respect for others who could get sick from their negligence. When my husband asked one of the crew members why he wasn't wearing a mask he got a very sarcastic retort from said staffer. Almost as if they are 'in your face' about the fact that no one is going to tell them to wear a mask and that they don't believe in vaccines or science. All I can say is...people like that deserve the Darwin award. We will never be back to the Key West Express. Plus, I suspect the FTA will be paying them a visit awfully soon!!! Hope they're ready to be shut down. read more

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Blatant ignorance of safety regulations and COVID prevention measures. I traveled to the Dry Tortugas National Park in November'21 and took a Key West Express boat from Fort Meyers to Key West and back. The experience was horrendous as the crew openly violated the safety regulations regarding COVID preventions, specifically facial masks requirements, and did not enforce the rules on the passengers. Perhaps only a tiny fraction of the passengers were wearing facial masks, the rest were ignoring the rules. When I politely asked one of the crew members to remind passengers about the safety regulations and enforce the rules, this crew member give me a look like he was going to punch me. Needless to mention, many crew members were not wearing masks themselves. In sum, be aware of the life-threatening health risks you are taking while traveling with Key West Express, and do not expect your health and safety to be their concern. read more

Very comfortable and quick three hour ride from Ft Myers to Key West. This wasn't our first trip and won't be our last read more

Key West Express - Sunset ride back to Ft Myers from Key West. - Ferries Near Me - Key West, Florida

Took the ferry ride from Key West to Fort Meyers. Long lines in terminal to get on boat and about 50 percent of people wearing mask and crowded together. Once on boat we sat on the top deck. Sunny and hot when we left. No one on top deck was wearing a mask but we were outside. Over the loud speaker they announced that wearing a mask is a federal mandate. So after the sunset, top deck got very cold. Went inside to a packed boat. Almost every table was packed. The seats that were also at 90% capacity. COVID protocol was not enforced. No social distancing and 90% of guest had NO MASK on. Crew would take them on and off I was stuck on this boat for 2 more hours. Horrible decision to travel on key west express. Never again read more

Fine service from Fort Myers Beach to Key West and back. Parking is $13.00 per day in Fort Myers Beach. The boat holds about 400 passengers. There's a conglomerate of movie theater seats, tables and chairs for 4 or 6 people, booth seating and high top chairs around the bar area. The temp is kept very chilly in the boat, wearing jeans and being wrapped in a blanket weren't enough to keep me warm. Brrr. The trip to Key West was smooth sailing. I slept the entire trip. The return a few nights later was a different story. Choppy waters caused the boat to hit waves which would lift the front of the boat up, and then it would drop it down suddenly on the water. This scenario repeatedly repeated itself for about an hour or more. People were getting sick in barf bags. Not pleasant. Overall, the boat was good. I, however, don't see the value in traveling by boat for 4-5 hours when a car ride to Key West takes about 5 hours. I'd rather drive and have my car available. read more

Key West Express - Your vessel for getting to/from Key West. - Ferries Near Me - Key West, Florida

Going to Key West was a spur of the moment decision for my trip to Ft Meyers. Flights were incredibly expensive so we opted for the Key West Express. It was absolutely worth it! The Key West Express is a ferry that leaves from Ft Meyers and takes you directly to the Key West Ferry Terminal in 3.5 hours. The price can't be beat ($125-$155 depending on the day). The ferry is a large, multi-level boat with reclining lounge chairs, cushioned booths, tables, and big screen TVs. They also have a full bar and some limited food options. They don't allow you to bring on your own alcohol but you can bring your own food. I recommend this if you feel you might be hungry. Most of the food is microwaved and overpriced. I paid $12 for a microwaved Jimmy Dean breakfast sandwich with a fruit cup and bottled water. They provide a checked luggage service for your convenience so you don't have to carry your luggage around the boat with you. You simply drop it off with a crew member and it's locked in a cart until you arrive at your destination. The inside of the ferry is air conditioned but there's also plenty of seating outside. This allows you to get awesome ocean views and a front row seat to a picture-perfect sunset. The phone reception is a little spotty but better than I expected. When going down to Key West I kept reception until the last hour of the trip. This is absolutely the way to travel if you're looking for a cheaper option that is still very fast, accommodating, and convenient. read more

We just returned from a trip to Key West aboard the Key West Express. While the trip was comfortable, I am outraged at the flagrant disregard the staff had for their own rules. The website has a section titled "Covid 19" which states, among other things, that masks/face coverings are required at the terminal and throughout the trip. This was blatantly disregarded by at least 90% of the passengers. In the outbound trip an announcement was made saying that masks were to be worn at all times except while eating or drinking. On the return trip an announcement was made that masks could be removed while seated but were mandatory if you got out of your seat. Again, almost no one wore masks while out of their seats and the crew NEVER announced it, reminded anyone to put their mask on or refused service to those who were not masked. I am furious that I was lied to by the staff and advertising of the Key West Express, putting me at unnecessary risk and exposure to Covid. Promises that were made about Covid protocols were simply not kept and I will likely not ever take this boat again. read more

Key West Express offered us the opportunity to get to Key West and not drive or fly. The trip was 4 hours each way (not 3). Be sure to arrive early as seating is first come first serve and good (comfortable) seats are limited. The way to Key West we were at a high top table not very comfortable but met people who on their trip were standing (made me appreciate the high top table). The trip was fine not rough nobody was sea sick... they is a bar and snack bar. It was nice to have options. They also have Tv's so the way home we could watch the Monday night football game! The staff and captain were all professional, helpful and kind. They did a good job. In Holiday season they sell vouchers for 99.00 round trip so the value is good. Being you have to get there 1 hour early for a good seat and it is a 4 hour journey from Ft. Myers I may have been better off driving with a party of more than 2. read more

I wish I would have read Yelp reviews for the Key West express prior to booking. Yes, it's a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to get to the keys, but people were getting sick left and right all over the place and I'm really not good with vomit. It was kind of my personal hell actually. My first leg (fort Myers to Key West) was cancelled due to weather so I had to pay an extra $200 to change my travel plans. Not at all the fault of KWE, but a warning to future passengers: make sure to have a backup plan in case you get stranded due to a weather cancellation! I never received a ticket in the email confirmation that was sent to me and the employee behind the counter was extremely rude to me about not having a ticket and told me I'd have to pay for a reprint. Her manager eventually came over and looked at the email I received and apologized profusely, confirming that I had not received a ticket as an attachment to the confirmation email as I should have. Make sure to get to the port at least an hour-90 minutes early if you travel on this ferry. The boarding line (which dictates seat selection) starts forming 2+ hours prior to departure, so you'll want to get there early if you have a large group that you want to sit with on the ship. Do not travel on the KWE if you don't do well with other people vomiting around you. If you're not bothered by people getting seasick, you'll probably be fine. read more

Key West Express - Ferries Near Me - Key West, Florida

RACIST STAFF - only kind and friendly to white people. Over a month since I posted this with no response from the company on Google reviews while they've responded to other reviews. That tells me I was right and they don't care. Shame on you, KWE. I am posting this everywhere I can so people know this is where you stand as an organization. Frankly, this hostility and the men who behaved this way felt like the type of people who would storm the Capitol building. Minorities/non passing - heed caution. Frankly, a number of staff members were short and passively rude towards me. I found most of the staff to be cold towards me even when politely saying hello, or have a good day. Met with nothing, no acknowledgement just a plain stare, and allowing me to wait at the counter for service with no rush and some reluctance in attending to me, but with friendly interaction with the other patrons that walked up after or previously. Being told they didn't have something but seeing a number of people carrying iced coffee more than an hour after boarding and being told maybe the other counter would have it but they weren't sure. Just a bunch of folks that asked for ice with their coffee, turns out, info that was probably known and could've been shared instead of saying they didn't know where they came from in the same plastic cups and lids. Well, looks like the employees carry out a number of responsibilities; from entry, to managing the floor and the counters. You don't know where people may have got them from? I'm Asian American, born and raised in this country, pay all my taxes, especially kind in nature, very respectful, and a pretty fantastic human. It felt like overt racism, once or twice sure, maybe just a misunderstanding, but you see the same people round trip and when they have nothing but a hard blank tight expression when being told thank you, sir, or good morning, each and every time and animated with every other person who doesn't happen to be Asian, it's gone too far without conviction that each of them, if not some, just didn't like my ethnicity and that would be the best I'd receive from them while on the job. Thankful to not have to interact with them had they not been on the clock. The commute and vessel were fine. We didn't land in Key West until 12:05, this was with us being one of the first 30 or so people out the door. I will not ever use this service again professionally or personally and will make sure to let my contacts know I'd not recommend they do either. What an ugly shame that this type of behavior exists. To have someone smiling and turn to you with it stiffing upon seeing you. Lots of reviews about friendly staff, that's for whites only I guess. read more

Great way to get to Key West rather than drive. So relaxing. There is food and drink I thought was reasonably priced. You can get up and walk around or go to different decks or outside. Will definitely go again! read more

We are so disappointed with Key West Express and their lax attitude in dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak. They send an email before your trip with their mask requirements... then they totally ignore their own rules once you're on board. I would say over 50% of the people onboard removed their masks once they were seated... even when they weren't eating our drinking. They were just chit chatting away for 3 1/2 hours... with no masks. Then, when we arrived in Key West... instead of releasing people row by row to eliminate a mad rush to get off... everyone piled up all together waiting for several minutes to get off of the boat. Ourselves and a few others just stood back in disbelief and kept our distance while this happened. We called to complain and we were told that they were following the State of Florida COVID-19 rules... so you know what means. They don't have to follow the CDC guidelines and can do whatever they want and not be in trouble with the State of Florida. I've posted a sample of the email we received before our trip. Notice the part about having to wear a mask for the duration of the trip. If you have any concern for your health during this pandemic... I cannot recommend Key West Express. read more

Key West Express - Ferries Near Me - Key West, Florida

We got a special price of $125 round trip. I thought that was reasonable. We got there toward boarding time so we didn't get the best choice of seats, but we sat on the top deck and sun bathed the whole way. There was a wind so it was comfortable in the sun. The people around us were pleasant making it nice. There was a luggage hold for people having extra packages and luggage. I thought that was a nice feature and very organized. I did notice that an extraordinary amount of people put bags and purses on seats next to them so no one could sit there. I found that annoying since seating is limited and we could have sat together. It would be nice to monitor the passengers for rudeness before a ticket was sold to them but I guess that can't be done. We encountered a big storm on the way back and the pilot handled the ship very well. People came down from the top deck to seek shelter and it seemed that everyone had room. I would take the Express again. Next time I would stay and night or two in Key West and not make the 8 hour trip in one day. I believe there was food on the ship as well as drink. I didn't try anything but it looked ok. An improvement would be to add more electrical outlets so people could keep their phones charged. It's always nice to take a break from your phone, but it is nice to stay connected. read more

An easy way to get from Ft Myers to Key West while avoiding hours of traffic. Do not. Do not. Do not purchase tickets from the Conch Tour while on board. The gentleman selling the tickets lies about that fact that you can only use the tickets the day of purchase. If you plan to use the tickets the next morning (as he assures you you can) you will learn this is not Update: I received a call from Eric at Key West Express today. He offered a refund for our tickets, because they have 100% satisfaction guaranteed. He also said he had talked with the gentleman that sells the tickets for conch Tours. I feel that Key West Express took care of my issue. I appreciate their response to my problem. read more

Key West Express - Ferries Near Me - Key West, Florida

Our morning started out great. We had a lovely and beautiful ride over to Key West from Fort Myers. Everyone was super nice and friendly... the parking staff, the ticket agent, the boarding host, etc. We arrived in Key West, a little later than what we were told but no worries. Fast Forward... So... it's 2am and we are just getting to our home, in Matlacha, FL. Why so late?!? Glad you ask. We had to rent a car one way and drive back... 6 hours. The two of us, had return tickets on the Key West Express, from Key West back to Fort Myers, yesterday afternoon (March 17, 2021). Our ticket said 6:00pm departure but the person that printed our tickets that same morning said that we could start boarding for the return as early as 4:30 but to be there no later than 5:45. We get on the morning ferry in Fort Myers and off we go for our day trip to Key West. Fast forward to the afternoon and it's time for us to start heading to the vessel. Our trolley tour guide points us in the direction to go so we process. Just a note... I had been having trouble with my phone all day. It just would not pick up WiFi so my normal "go to" maps was not working and that's the only reason I asked. Not to mention, we knew we were close. We get to where she told us and it was the wrong ferry terminal. We had just walked about 15 mins in the wrong direction. We found an information booth and he was able to give us the correct directions.... so, we now knew we needed to hustle... we walked just as fast as we could... just knowing we were going to make it. We walk up to the ticket collector right at 5:40. Handed her our tickets, not realizing that ferry wasn't even there. She said, oh no... you guys missed it. Wait, what?!? Our tickets clearly states a 6pm departure. She said you are suppose to board by 5:30. So, we explained the ticket person in Fort Myers said no later that 5:45. She again said, it is a 5:30 cut off. After talking to someone on the phone to explain we were given the wrong "last call on boarding" information, I asked, why the boat would leave before 6:00 anyways, since that is the departure time. She said they can leave early, once the boarding is closed... at 5:30 not 5:45 like we were told. And again, we were there at 5:40... 20 mins before departure. She basically said it's just like a plane, once everyone is boarded and they close that door, it's done. But planes don't leave 30 mins early if everyone has not arrived. In there defense, they did try to call at 5:27 but I could not hear my phone with all of the music plus we were trying to hurry to get there by 5:45, like we were told. And we did make it by 5:40pm. The vessel had been gone for awhile since we couldn't see it in the distance. The person I am talking to on the phone offered to put us on the next return ferry, the next day... if we wanted to just get a hotel room and stay the night, only to call me right back to say there was only 1 seat left. So... we took an Uber to the airport and got a one way, rental car... that cost $389. But hey, we made it home. The moral of the story... read ALL of the fine print... no way to prove what someone says. read more

This was a fun experience. Everything was organized and we really enjoyed the trip to Key West. Lots of different seating options. We sat at a table , on the second floor on out trip out to Key West. Time went fast talking to two couples from Illinois. We also watched a movie. On the way back we sat on the first floor, watched two movies, in reclining seats. Lots of room to get up and walk around. People played cards, slept, or hung out at the bar. I would highly recommend this trip for anyone looking for a fun way to get to Key West. read more

Key West Express - Waiting to board! First on first choice in seats. - Ferries Near Me - Key West, Florida

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Enjoyed the trip and we are glad we did it. The staff was very friendly. It was nice they had a galley to get drinks and some food. I enjoyed hanging out on the top floor. It takes closer to 4 hours. Tip: get there early to get a good spot. read more

An excellent alternative to driving. Flying would probably be next best. You're at the dock in Key West by Noon so you can have lunch and a cocktail at Schooner upon arrival. They have always been right in time departing and arriving. Very tight schedule. Don't be late arriving. Would suggest early arrival if you want a good seat. They play a movie both directions and there is a full service bar with some snacks and sandwiches I believe. Highly recommended! read more

Es un paseo genial!! Key West Express tiene muy buena organization para sus viajes. Son muy puntuales, no llegues tarde. Tomamos el ferry por un día hacia Key West y la pasamos súper! El servicio en el bote es muy bueno. Tienen bares Y venden snacks por si te antojas de algo de comer. Es muy cómodo puedes sentarte a una mesa o en asientos individuales como de avión pero con buen espacio. Puedes ver películas o partidos en camino a tu lugar de destino. Me encanto el viaje el personal es muy servicial. El bote muy limpio. "Lo único que me gustaría sugerir es que la gente no tomara las mesas donde se pueden sentar hasta seis personas para un solo viajero! O que las mujeres se tomen asientos para colocar allí sus pertenencias tomando el puesto de alguien. Y se enojan si les pides que lo retiren para poder ocupar la silla. Eso lo digo por ciertos viajeros. En general Key West Express es fabuloso y lo recomiendo tomar para viajar a los callos ya sea un paseo de un día o que te quedes y regreses después, kudos to KWE group!! read more

It was better than traveling by car. It can be a bit noisy and it's crazy how early you need to arrive to get a decent seat. Especially for the trip home in the evening. It was nice and clean. No WiFi available onboard and seating could be more comfortable. It was worth the money spent and I was glad to see Key West, bucket list item checked off. If I went again, definitely would stay overnight at Key West to break it up a bit. read more

Key West Express - Key West Ferry - Ferries Near Me - Key West, Florida

My best friend and I took the Key West Express from Fort Meyers to Key West. Great way to travel to key west. We paid about 100.00 one way for each of us. They originally told us we would have to pay for each piece of luggage that we "checked", but they did not. My friend brought an XL and Carry On, I brought a Carry On and duffle. If you have a water bottle/thermos, you could bring your own beverage. Food was decent and fairly priced. They offer a bar, drinks are a little steep and they only carry certain liquors. Drinks were a little weak. Recommend: - Bringing a jacket, as it gets chilly on board - Bring games or something to entertain yourself, it's about 3 hours, they offer games to purchase. Cell phones do lose reception. No WiFi. -Seats at the bar go quick, as do the booths...which are ideal for a cat nap! Definitely a great option if you are traveling to Key West! read more

First time traveler from Fort Myer to Key West. Will preface my comments by saying the staff were excellent, knowledgeable and friendly. No complaints about the staff. We were first time travelers and would have liked a heads up that the ferry is fully loaded an hour before leaving the dock. Therefore finding seats for 2 people to sit together is not available on a Monday morning. Many people sitting in booths for 6, sleeping and sprawled out so no one can sit in the empty space. Many seats used for baggage and people became annoyed when asked to move baggage to free up space. Return trip was even worse. Later were told that people arrive to board for return to Ft. Myers at 1pm and seating is gone by 4:30. We arrived at 5 pm for a 6pm departure and Our only choice was to sit outside on the deck ( it was a windy day cold day) or stand inside. Yes, we could have asked for assistance but who wants to sit next to a hostile seat mate. Website states 3 1/2 hour travel time. Our trip was 4 hours plus. Understand the weather may have been an issue but would have liked to have been updated onboard as we traveled. Won't do this trip again. read more

The boat itself is fine. I would not want to get stuck sitting outside on a windy day (which pretty much every day will be windy out on ocean). The most annoying part of this is that everyone is in a huge competition on who will get to boat first in order to get a "good seat" inside. Seriously, we got to line 2 hours early in Key West and probably 250 people are already in line?!? What a fun vacation when you have to come back 3 hours early to get an inside seat. Don't even bother doing a day trip because you would only have 3 hours on land. You will spend at least 12 hours of your day in line or on boat. This is outrageous. I know lots of people comment about needing assigned seating. That is absolutely necessary in order for people to actually enjoy their time at Key West. Only other appropriate solution would be to sell less tickets so that no one would be forced to sit outside in cold weather for 4 hours. I would much rather dive 6 hours than deal with this headache. This is not a cheap trip and I shouldn't have to come this early to get a seat. I'm updating this after return trip... The ride out to key west was smooth. The ride back was very rough. Lots of people were sea sick. I was okay, but this is a lot worse than any cruise ship I have been on. As expected most the outside people ended up coming inside due to the cold and wind. They were standing, sitting on floor, curled up on floor sleeping. I feel really bad that they didn't have anywhere to sit. I would be very angry if I was in that situation. To comment on the response to my yelp review... $300 is not cheap when you compare it to the prices of some of the 3 night cruise ships that also stop in key west. Obviously, this is cheaper than flying.... but driving is cheaper. The reason I took the boat was to save time, but I didn't end up saving any time unfortunately. read more

Nice way to get to Key West from Marco Island, 3 hours and your there! Very nice staff also. read more

Key West Express - Ferries Near Me - Key West, Florida