Key West isn’t known for its beaches, but that shouldn’t keep you from enjoying the surrounding waters. There are different modes to getting out on the water, from floating tiki boats that travel at trolling speeds, to those of a jet ski. Leisurely cruises or sport fishing excursions are all within your reach.

Decide what you want ahead of time, book in advance to secure a spot, lather on the sunscreen and explore the waters of Key West.

Take it Slow

If you want to take it easy, kick back, relax, and enjoy the scenery, opt for a sail or evening sunset cruise. If you haven’t heard, what the island lacks in beaches it makes up for in sunsets, delighting crowds at Mallory Square nightly. Sunset cruises generally last 1.5 hours and include adult beverages. We recommend Fury Water Adventures to book your shared cruise on a catamaran, or for a more intimate setting of couples or small groups, opt for private charter Sunset Sail Key West. For something a little more Key Weird, check out Cruisin’ Tiki boats. The floating tiki bar offers bar hop tours, sunset cruises, trips to the sandbar, ecotours, and more. More info on the Cruisin’ Tikis website.

Moderate Water Adventure

For a day trip adventure, we suggest kayaking or paddle boarding the mangroves with our friends at Lazy Dog. If traveling with family, book a cruise around the waters of Key West to spot dolphins, sea turtles and more. For 6 people or less, we suggest you check out dolphin tour or kayak options with HonestEco. Book a charter ahead of time, as spots tend to fill up.

Full Speed Ahead!

Sport fishing? Jet Ski? Deep-sea scuba dives? If this is more your speed, you’ve come to the right island. For private fishing charters, we recommend you book with Key West Pro Guides, one of the largest and oldest charters in the area. For shared charters, check out Gulfstream Fishing, Inc.

For your jet ski experience, Sunset Watersports on Smathers Beach offers jet ski rentals at a fair price, as well as other, more-extreme approaches to the water.

Experienced diver? Explore shipwrecks, the coral reef, or drift dives with Blue Water Charters to explore diverse waters of Key West.

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Booking a trip to Key West? Check out rates at The Gates Hotel