Historical View
Situated in the Monroe County of Florida, Key West is a beautiful city in the United States. It is also connected to an island of the same name, which is located on the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys. The first settlement on this island was that of Calusa people, who were colonized by the Spanish in 1520’s. Known as Cayo Hueso in Spanish, the name literally means ‘Bone Island’. Overtaken by Great Britain in 1763, it was again captured by the Spanish some 20 years later. It was many years later in 1823 that Key West was taken under the control of US Navy officer, Commodore David Porter, who ruled there as a military dictator.
Key West was the home of famous American author Ernest Hemingway, whose house is now one of the most popular tourist attractions. One interesting fact is that the six/seven toed polydactyl cat, which was originally Hemingway’s pet, has its descendants living in the house.
Means of Travel
If you have made up your mind about traveling on a cruise, the Key West would be an ideal place to experience the laid back charm of the Southern States. By cruising to this gorgeous island, you would be to completely take in the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
What to do in Key West?
You might think, why Key West? That is because the place is a perfect mixture of historical significance and modern entertainment. Not only would you be able to see the famous houses and other places that bring you close to history, you can also indulge in many thrilling recreational activities. Here are some of the shore excursions you can enjoy when you are Key West.
Key West Reef Snorkeling Cruise
Hop aboard the catamaran Marquesa for reef snorkeling! You will spend half the day snorkeling on Florida Reef, the only living coral barrier reef in the United States and the third largest in the world! The waters are shallow–so if you are a beginner OR an expert you will have a blast swimming in the clear blue water around tropical fish and coral!
For beginners: Never fear, you will have an instructor guiding you all the way! And SNORKELING GEAR IS PROVIDED!
Worried about spending too much time on this excursion? This is a Worry-Free Shore Excursion meaning that it is designed to end in time for you to get back on board your cruise ship!
Read real reviews from people who have done the Key West Reef Snorkeling Tour.
Key West Watersports Party Boat
Sail out on a catamaran and cruise to a sunken ship wreck in shallow water PLUS: jet ski, snorkel, ride on a banana boat, kayak, windsurf, waterski, knee-board, or just float on a raft.
Enjoy free burgers and hotdogs fresh off the grill, cold soft drinks and draft beer so lunch is covered!
Key West Conch Tour Train
*Children travel FREE on this excursion* Travel around Key West and see the best parts of town on the Conch Tour Train. Travel through the islands golden age of settlement, go through the days of the railroad, Great Depression and World WarII.
This educational excursion is a blast for adults as well as children as you learn about Spanish Explorers, cigar barons, and characters such as Ernest Hemingway, Harry S Truman, and more!
Key West Shipwreck Snorkel & Wild Dolphin Encounter
Sail out on the ocean in a catamaran while watching dolphins playing and swimming alongside the boat! Snorkel over shipwrecks and coral reefs–and later relax on your catamaran feeling the sea breeze in your hair while you enjoy snacks and drinks (including beer and wine)!
The Wild Dolphin encounter begins when you make your first stop to the wild dolphin playground. Here you will see dolphins swimming, eating, jumping, playing, and interacting with one another.
Then move on to snorkeling (snorkeling gear IS PROVIDED) where you can snorkel in the clear tropical waters which are home to more than 600 species of fish, coral, and other sea life.
After a day of dolphins and snorkeling replenish with a tropical fruit tray, snacks, ice-cold soft drinks, beer, and wine for FREE!
Harry S. Truman House
It wasn’t only Hemingway who lived in Key West at one time. President Truman also lived in West Key. The house that was built in 1890 for the Naval Commander became the winter home for the president. You can enjoy a guided tour that increases your knowledge about the life, work and history of President Truman and his reign.
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not
Ever seen the famous show? That’s right; you can visit the Ripley house in Key West and be awed by the strangest looking objects in it. There are around 500 of the weirdest objects you have ever seen. Don’t forget to take your camera to capture the amazing displays.
Fury Catamarans
If you love water and everything related to it, then you will definitely love Fury Catamarans. The many things features that you can avail on this trip include, jet skinning, flying above the water in parasail, enjoying a glass-bottom boat excursion and snorkeling. It will be the most thrilling thing that you would have a great time at.
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Simply do not miss out on this stunningly breathtaking haven! You can see butterflies that range in all colors, sizes and shapes. It will be a sight that you will cherish forever. But it’s not just the sight that is entrancing. The information that is given to you about the breeding and survival of theses glittering creatures will mesmerize you.
Shop N’ Dine
When it comes to shopping and dining, Key West is full of multiple options. You can shop from stalls, vendors or shopping stores if you wish. As for food, try the local fresh sea food that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight.
