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 set sail about 1–2 hours before sunset, and as sunset times vary throughout the year, so do tour departure times. In summer, expect cruises to leave between 6pm and 6:45pm, while in winter, most cruises set sail between 4:30pm and 5:30pm. Plan to arrive early, as boarding usually starts at least 30 minutes before.

Most Key West sunset cruises don’t have a dress code, so you can wear whatever you feel comfortable in. Opt for flat, comfortable shoes on board the boat, and dress in light layers so you can adapt to changing temperatures as the sun goes down. Bring a sunhat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a jacket or scarf (it can be windy out at sea), and cash for tips or purchasing drinks on board. Check the tour inclusions, as some cruises provide food, while others encourage you to bring your own snacks.

Key West sunset cruises start at about US$60 per person for a group catamaran cruise with drinks only. For a longer cruise with food and drinks served on board, expect to pay about US$80–100. Small-group schooner cruises start at US$120, and private cruises start at US$400 per boat.

Many Key West sunset cruises include an open bar or unlimited drinks on board, and there’s often a selection of wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks. Other tours allow passengers to bring their own drinks or snacks on board. Some cruises also serve food on board, ranging from hors d’oeuvres to tapas to sushi platters. You might also be treated to live music or a DJ on board.

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
• 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 preferences. Some cruises are for adults only, while others are family-friendly; some have an open bar and focus on the party atmosphere, while others have a more relaxed vibe. Check the inclusions for what food and drinks are offered on board, note whether you can bring your own drinks and snacks on board, and look out for hidden costs (some tours charge an additional fuel surcharge). On the day, get there early to secure a prime seat for the best sunset views.

Key West sunsets are impressive through all four seasons. Winter (December–March) is peak season, and it’s the perfect time to cruise the coastline with clear skies, cooler temperatures, and calm waters. Sunsets can be even more beautiful in summer, but the trade-off is the sweltering heat and more temperamental weather—avoid peak hurricane season (August –October) if you can.

Yes, most Key West sunset cruises are family-friendly, and kids of all ages are welcome on board. There are usually reduced rates for children, and infants sometimes travel for free—check the booking availability for more details. However, some tours, such as this Adults-Only Sunset Cocktail Cruise, have a minimum age of 18 (alcoholic drinks are only served to passengers over 21).

It depends. Catamarans are the classic choice for a sunset cruise around Key West. Depending on the size, you might be joined on board by more than 100 passengers, but they are often spacious, well-equipped, and smooth sailing—ideal if you’re prone to seasickness or want to hit the dance floor. Schooners are arguably the more romantic choice, offering the chance to set sail on a traditional tall ship. Schooner tours are often a bit pricier but offer a more intimate sailing experience.

Yes, sunset cruises generally set sail come rain or shine, although tours will be canceled or rescheduled in extreme weather (more common during hurricane season). Don’t worry too much about the weather: not only can it clear up quickly, but a cloudy sky or showers can sometimes result in the most dramatic sunsets. Most Key West sunset cruises offer a full refund if you cancel with 24 hours’ notice, but always check the conditions before booking. You can often also rebook for a different date, depending on availability.

Most sunset cruises depart from Key West’s historic seaport along the north shore, just a short walk east of Mallory Square. Check the tour details for the meeting point, which is often at the tour operator’s office close to the waterfront, and take note of the check-in time (usually 30–60 minutes before departure). It’s easy to reach the harbor on foot from anywhere in the Old Town.