Top Key West Sunset Cruises

There are lots of excellent Key West sunset cruises. Based on previous ratings and reviews by customers, these are the best tours available right now: 

• Key West Sunset Sail with Full Bar, Live Music and Hors D'oeuvres
• Key West Small-Group Sunset Sail with Wine
• Key West Sunset Cruise with Live Music, Drinks and Appetizers
• Sunset Sail in Key West with Beverages Included
• Key West Schooner Sunset Sail with Bar & Hors d'oeuvres

Most Key West sunset cruises begin 1.5-2.5 hours before sunset, but the start time depends on the season. A sunset cruise in winter will start between 4:30pm and 5pm, and around 6:30pm in summer. In spring, they usually start around 6pm and in fall around 5:30pm.

Because you'll be on a boat, wear close-toed shoes that you won’t slip or trip in. It might be windy and get cooler as the sun goes down, so light layers such as jackets and scarves are a good idea. When the weather is warm, wear whatever you’ll be most comfortable in.

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park (Fort Zach) is where locals watch the sunset in Key West. Lagerhead Beach Bar and Sunset Tiki Bar are often less crowded than the much-loved Mallory Square, which has a sunset celebration every night. Key West Historic Seaport is another quiet place that locals go for sunset.

Sunset Key is a 7-minute boat ride from Key West. The ferry leaves from Opal Key Resort & Marina harbor and goes straight to Sunset Key. You must have a reservation at Latitudes restaurant, be staying at the Sunset Key Cottages resort, or have a resident’s pass to board the ferry.

Items to bring on a Key West sunset cruise include sunglasses, a hat, layers to stay warm after sunset, comfortable closed-toed shoes, and a camera or smartphone to take pictures. If your boat has a cash bar, you’ll need your wallet too.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Key West aside from sunset cruises. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Waterskiing and Jet Skiing

• Dinner Cruises

• Snorkeling

• Kayaking and Canoeing

• Catamaran Cruises

Key West sunset cruise prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now: 

• Key West Cocktail Cruise Adults Only Sunset Cruise with Open Bar

• Key West Sushi Sunset Cruise with Complimentary Drinks

• Sunset Sail in Key West with Beverages Included

• Key West Sunset Sail with Full Bar, Live Music and Hors D'oeuvres

• Key West Sunset Sail with Live Music, Drinks and Appetizers

Plenty of Key West sunset cruises are available, so research your options to find a tour that suits your budget and group. For example, some cruises specify they are for adults only, while others are appropriate for families. There are also differences in the style and size of boats, and some trips include food and drink as part of the package.

Tips for your Key West sunset cruise include arriving early to secure a good spot. Dress in light layers, as ocean breezes can be cool after sunset. Make note of what is included on board before you set off; some cruises offer dinner, while others serve light appetizers only. Check if there are additional docking or fuel levies before you depart.

The best time to book a Key West sunset cruise is during the dry season from November to April, when skies are clear, temperatures are comfortable, and ocean conditions are calm. Summer offers beautiful sunsets but can be hot and humid, while late summer and fall bring the risk of hurricanes.