Virgin Voyages' guide to Cruise Key West, Florida
A haven for artists and sunset-seekers alike, the only poetic rival to the writers who called Key West home is the geography itself.
It’s all a breeze in the keys
With it’s fiercely independent personality and leave-your-last-name-at-the-dock attitude, Key West is a celebration of cultural collision — with Bahamian Conch, Cuban and African-American heritage permeating the spirit and inclusive philosophy of the island known as “One Human Family”.
More than its pirate past and raucous Duval Street parties (although, to be fair, those are worth the hype), Key West is home to an ever-evolving community of boundary-pushing artists and dedicated preservationists—lined with pastel-colored houses and nights spent toasting sunsets so incredible they inspire some of the world’s most sacred art.
Shore Excursions
What to see and do on the island
The Shore Things, the tour things and Hemingway’s fur things.
Dolphin Watch and Wildlife Snorkel
Head out on the turquoise waters of the gulf to watch bottlenose dolphins as they swim, play, feed and do whatever else they please. Afterwards, head back to the wildlife refuge, where you can snorkel along the shallow backcountry.
Fly & Ride
Take to the skies to see Key West from a whole new and exciting perspective. Begin the day by parasailing above the emerald blue water, followed by an unforgettable bike ride led by a local guide. You'll visit attractions and landmarks like Mallory Square, the Custom House, the Mel Fisher Museum, Truman's Little White House, the Hemingway House, Key West Lighthouse, and more. Finish the day with a complimentary slice of Key Lime Pie!
The Duval Crawl: Key West's Pub Crawl
The best way to see a famous Key West tradition while also letting loose because, yes, you are on vacation via the “Duval Crawl”—the downtown pub crawl. The vibe of the crawl is a cross between the famous chill Florida Keys atmosphere, a splattering of upbeat live music and Caribbean drinks that taste exactly like a vacation should.
More Shore Things for your wishlist...
We have even more in our curated catalog.
From Cayo Hueso to Key West:
Named by Spanish settlers — English speakers heard, “Key West” instead.
Shore Things
Historic Key West Walking Tour
See Old Town Key West on foot—taking in every bit of the wild, whimsical, and charming history of the island.
DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGS
When the sun sets in Key West… you’ll know. And not just because a myriad of artists from Jimmy Buffet to Judy Blume will make art inspired by the island’s evening end. You’ll know because the sky lights up like fire—tangerine and gold stretching far and wide across the Caribbean sea as you pull away from the dock.
Setting on a day spent in a place that goes far beyond a bachelor and bachelorette party destination—where the best of New Orleans and Nantucket meet in the Caribbean to create a little island with a very big personality.
Set Sail the Virgin Way
Set sail the Virgin way and find a new approach to cruise vacations. Select this special itinerary and let's sail.
