How To Charter A Boat From Miami To Key West
Published February 2, 2024
Set sail on an extraordinary journey from Miami’s vibrant energy to the allure of Key West, the southernmost gem of the United States. Direct ferries may not be available. However, the appeal of embarking on a private boat charter beckons. It offers exhilarating experiences and breathtaking views throughout the 165-mile journey.
If the open seas aren’t your cup of tea, choose from the comforts of bus rides or take a scenic drive through the Florida Keys. Each route has its distinct charm, providing adventurous experiences or iconic sights.
You can choose your mode of transportation—whether it’s a leisurely boat from Miami to Key West, a scenic bus journey, a comfortable car drive, or a swift flight—to reach Key West. You’ll have an exciting and scenic experience no matter how you travel. It’s an unforgettable escape worth cherishing.
Traveling From Miami To Key West By Boat
Unfortunately, there are no direct Miami to Key West ferry services available. However, if you prefer traveling by boat or ferry from Miami to Key West, you have two options. You can arrange a private charter, or you can take advantage of the Key West Express. The Key West Express is a ferry service. It departs from Fort Myers Beach or Marco Island and takes you directly to the southernmost city in the United States.
Traveling on Key West yacht rentals or boat charters offers an exhilarating and picturesque voyage. Covering a distance of roughly 165 miles, the duration of your trip is influenced by the route you select and the speed of your boat.
Miami is a bustling metropolis, home to many boat chartering companies. The advantage lies in the array of options. There are opulent luxury yachts and quaint fishing vessels. There’s a charter tailored to your preferences, whether you desire grandeur or simplicity.
Alternative Routes To Get To Key West
Luckily, there are other ways on how to get to Key West from Miami. Here are alternative modes of travel to reach the must-see destination.
By Bus
You can trek by bus from Miami to Key West if you don’t have a car. The regular bus service provides convenient transportation.
Furthermore, other bus services like Greyhound Lines provide online booking for trips from Miami to Key West. Plus, they provide free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and much more legroom.
Keys Shuttle is perfect if you prefer a smaller bus for more privacy. Keys Shuttle offers daily personalized door-to-door service from Miami and Key West’s airports.
By Car
If you enjoy lengthy road trips, perhaps you’ve contemplated driving to the captivating Florida Keys. The duration of the journey is approximately three-and-a-half hours without any stops. It may vary due to traffic conditions.
However, the scenery you’ll view along the Overseas Highway (US1) makes it all worth it.
Your Instagram feed will look stunning after you take photos here. You can stop by many tourist attractions along the way to make the most out of your trip.
Unfortunately, parking is challenging in Key West due to the limited space. The best way to fix this is to use Key West Park N’ Ride’s service for a convenient trip. This service allows you to leave your vehicle parked in its place and enjoy all-day shuttle rides around town.
By Tour
Taking day trips from Miami to Key West usually takes 13 hours. Companies will schedule a pick-up from your hotel or resort at approximately 7:00 AM. This tour allows you to explore Key West’s famous beach and visit attractions with the help of a knowledgeable guide.
The landmarks along the overseas highway, like the Seven Mile Bridge, are some of the tour’s highlights. You can include extra activities, such as jet skiing and cruising, in your itinerary. Upon arrival at Key West, you can freely explore the city for around six hours.
By Cruise
If you plan to cruise from Miami to Key West, it’s also an option worth considering. Today, several reputable companies are operating in the Port of Miami. Some popular cruise operations include Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Disney Cruise Lines.
Cruise durations range from short 3- or 4-night trips to longer 5- or 7-night journeys, offering various options for travelers.
Keep in mind that each cruise line provides unique amenities and experiences. Therefore, contacting them directly for accurate and current information is advisable.
By Plane
If cost isn’t a concern, flying is always an excellent option for traveling. When reaching Key West from Miami, traveling by air is the fastest and most efficient way.
A typical flight from Miami International Airport to Key West International Airport usually takes less than an hour. However, it’s essential to factor in the time spent at the airport, particularly during peak travel seasons. Additionally, the average cost of airfares is approximately $200.
People who don’t have financial constraints can also book private charters along this route. They can also share the cost with friends or family. The evoJets and Air Key West are two reputable charter companies to consider as they provide excellent service.
Private Yacht Charter From Miami To Key West
Boca Raton is less than an hour away from Miami. It’s a convenient starting point for your boat trip. Embarking from there on a private yacht cruise presents a viable option. When it comes to chartering a vessel in Boca Raton, Seafari stands out as the premier choice. They specialize in luxurious ultrawide catamaran yacht charters, particularly trips to Key West.
The Seafari Ultrawide Catamaran offers an array of amenities to enhance your experience. Every convenience is at your fingertips. You have Wi-Fi, a freezer, a fridge, and a wireless sound system. Additionally, fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the vessel’s in-house fishing gear for free. This ensures a seamless and enjoyable fishing experience without any extra charges.
Our Rates To Key West
The journey from Boca Raton to Key West typically takes 4 to 5 hours with Seafari. This means that chartering a day trip to the city is undoubtedly feasible. Yet, it’s important to note that a one-day excursion may not be enough. It may not allow you to immerse yourself in what Key West offers.
For those seeking to truly immerse themselves in Key West’s wonders, book a trip that spans 3 to 7 days. With that in mind, allow us to provide you with a detailed overview of our current rates:
|
Half-Day |
Full-Day |
Weekend Rates |
$2,999 |
$3,999 |
Weekday Rates |
$2,399 |
$3,399 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Miami To Key West Boat Travel
How far is Miami from Key West by boat?
It’s approximately 165 miles from Miami to Key West. The length of a boat trip depends on your speed and route.
What is the easiest way to get to Key West?
An international airport of the same name serves Key West Island. Flying in is the easiest way to get there.
Where do ferries heading to Key West leave from?
The Key West Express offers departures from two convenient Southwest Florida locations. If you’re going on a boat trip, you can catch the boat there. Choose from Fort Myers Beach (year-round) and Marco Island (seasonally) to Key West.
What is the best time of year to plan a trip to Key West?
The ideal time to sail from Miami to Key West is during the dry season, between November and April. It’s the time of the year when the weather is warm and less humid.
Jumpstart Your Miami To Key West Boating Adventure
When traveling from Miami to Key West, the perfect route ultimately depends on your preferences. If you love the ocean and enjoy breathtaking sunset views, there’s nothing like embarking on a yacht or boat from Miami to Key West. It offers a complete vacation experience on the water. You can immerse yourself in the enchantment of this unforgettable voyage. So why wait any longer? Set sail today and indulge in the magic of this remarkable adventure.
Experience Yacht Charters With Seafari In Boca Raton Florida
Looking for a great time on the water in Boca Raton Florida? Seafari Yacht Charters is number choice for yacht rentals in Boca Raton. Book our yachts for parties, exciting day trips to the Bahamas, romantic yacht dinner cruises, and much more. Come experience all South Florida has to offer with us.
Fact Checked By Experts
Our team of internal experts has conducted rigorous fact-checking on this content. Explore the editorial standard for our website to dive deeper into our commitment to excellence.
About The Author
With expertise in multiple fields, Rei Bayucca offers readers captivating and insightful articles. Through her writing, she aims to engage and enlighten readers with thought-provoking content. Experience and dedication ensure that her work is well-crafted and impactful.