Key West, Florida

Tucked at the very end of the Florida Keys, the Port of Key West is one of the most distinctive cruise destinations in the United States. Famous for its laid-back island vibe, pastel architecture, and lively streets, Key West offers an easy blend of tropical atmosphere and American convenience all within walking distance of the ship.

Where Cruise Ships Dock?

Key West features three docking locations for cruise ships:

• Pier B (Truman Annex): The most frequently used berth for cruise ships, located directly beside the Margaritaville Resort and within a short walk of Mallory Square and Duval Street.
• Mallory Square Dock: Right at the heart of Old Town, this pier offers unbeatable access to the historic district and sunset celebrations.
• Outer Mole (Navy Mole) Pier: A restricted pier on U.S. Navy property. When ships dock here, guests are transported to downtown Key West by complimentary shuttle buses or trolleys, about a 10-minute ride.

All three locations place passengers close to the action, but docking assignments vary depending on ship size, schedule, and the number of vessels in port.

Getting Around Key West

Key West is compact — roughly four miles long and one mile wide, which means you can explore most highlights on foot, by bike, or via trolley.

• Walk: Passengers docking at Pier B or Mallory Square can easily stroll into the heart of town.
• Shuttle: Provided for ships at the Outer Mole Pier.
• Tours & rentals: Hop-on/hop-off trolleys, Conch Train tours, electric cars, scooters, and bicycles are all available near the port.

Driving isn’t recommended unless you plan to venture beyond Old Town; parking is limited and often expensive.

Things to See and Do

Key West is best enjoyed at your own pace. Here are a few top experiences within easy reach of the port:

• Duval Street: The island’s main thoroughfare, lined with bars, boutiques, galleries, and restaurants from historic watering holes like Sloppy Joe’s to chic beachwear shops.

• Mallory Square: Famous for its nightly Sunset Celebration, where street performers, artisans, and musicians gather as the sun dips below the Gulf of Mexico.

  
• Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum: Tour the house where the writer lived and meet the descendants of his six-toed cats.
• Southernmost Point: Snap a photo at the iconic buoy marking the southernmost spot in the continental U.S., just 90 miles from Cuba.
• Water Adventures: Try a snorkeling tour, glass-bottom boat, parasailing, kayaking, or a catamaran sail to the reef all bookable near the pier.