Ft Lauderdale to Key West with Optional Activities

Travelers eager to experience the vibrant spirit of Key West without the hassle of driving or planning often turn to organized day trips. This particular tour from Fort Lauderdale offers a convenient way to explore the famous island, combining comfortable bus transportation with optional water adventures and sightseeing upgrades. While it’s not perfect, it provides a solid taste of what this unique Florida destination has to offer.

What we appreciate most about this tour is its affordability—a full-day experience for around $99 per person—and its flexibility. With add-on options like a glass-bottom boat ride, snorkeling, or hop-on hop-off trolley, you can customize your day to fit your interests. And the included pickup and drop-off from the Fort Lauderdale hotel zone make it an easy, no-hassle trip.

However, a few potential pitfalls are worth noting. The long bus ride—approximately 15 hours round-trip—can test patience, especially if the bus experiences issues like malfunctioning AC or delays, as some reviews mention. Plus, the crowd size (up to 50 people) might feel a bit hectic, and some travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with certain logistics, such as canceled water activities or crowded bathroom facilities.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to the Keys who want a cost-effective overview of the island, or those eager to combine a bit of sightseeing with water activities. It’s less suitable for travelers seeking an intimate, leisurely experience or those wanting to spend more time exploring at their own pace.

Key Points

• This is a full-day trip with about 6 hours in Key West, leaving early and returning late.
• The scenic drive over the iconic Seven Mile Bridge is a highlight.
• Multiple upgrade options allow a personalized experience, from train tours to water adventures.
• The value is generally good, especially considering transportation and entry fees included.
• Some travelers report issues like weather cancellations and bus delays impacting their experience.
• Guides and drivers are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness.

The Journey to Key West: What to Expect

Pickup and Transportation

Most travelers meet at the Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport, a straightforward location. From there, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable bus, with some reviews noting issues like malfunctioning AC. The drive itself offers scenic views of the Florida Keys, with the Seven Mile Bridge often praised as a major photo op. The ride is approximately 4 hours long, including a rest stop, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks, water, and patience.

The group size tends to be around 50 passengers, which helps keep the atmosphere lively but can also mean more waiting around or crowded spaces, particularly on the bus.

The Highlights in Key West

Arriving around 11:30 am, you’re free to explore at your own pace or take advantage of optional upgrades. The included visit to Mallory Square offers vibrant street performers and a lively local scene, perfect for soaking in the island’s famous vibe. The Hemingway House, with its iconic cats and literary history, is another popular stop, offering a glimpse into the island’s past.

Optional Activities and Upgrades

• Conch Train Tour: A 75-minute narrated journey through Old Town Key West, with stops at key points like Truval Village and Flagler Station. Several reviews mention that the guide’s volume or clarity can sometimes be lacking, but the tour generally provides interesting insights into the town’s history.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley: Allows you to explore the city at your own pace, hopping off to visit shops, galleries, or cafes. This flexible option is especially popular for those who want to see more without rushing.
• Snorkeling Adventure: A 3-hour snorkeling trip on a well-equipped 65-foot catamaran takes you over the coral reef, the third-largest globally. Many find this to be the highlight, as the reef teems with marine life. Be aware though, that weather conditions can cause cancellations.
• Glass-Bottom Boat & Parasailing: These water activities offer unique visual perspectives of the reef and the island. Parasailing, particularly, is appreciated for giving a bird’s-eye view of the waterscape, though it requires a government-issued ID and is weather dependent.

The Return Journey

Departing Key West around 5:45 pm, you’ll spend the evening traveling back. Some reviews suggest that delays or traffic can push the trip late into the night, so be prepared for a potentially long day. The bus ride home includes another rest stop, but the overall journey can be tiring.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Reviews

The reviews reflect a mixed but generally positive sentiment. Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and drivers—“Lily was a great host” and “Titi and Marlene were awesome”—who keep the trip moving smoothly and share interesting insights. The scenic drive over the Seven Mile Bridge earns repeated praise: “The trip across the islands, the bridge, the scenery—beautiful.”

However, some reviewers voiced frustrations: a few encountered canceled water activities or bus delays—one noted, “Our Ft Lauderdale bus was canceled and we had to join a Miami bus,” leading to a very late return. Others expressed disappointment about weather cancellations or crowded facilities, such as the bus bathroom, which some found unpleasant.

Despite these hiccups, many feel the value for money is solid, especially given the included attractions and transportation. The $99 price point makes it accessible, but travelers should weigh the long hours and potential weather issues when deciding.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunscreen, hats, and water—the Florida sun can be intense, especially on a boat or walking around.
• Prepare for a long day—comfortable shoes and some patience will go a long way.
• Confirm your optional activities at booking to avoid disappointment or cancellations.
• Be ready for possible weather impacts—if you’re keen on water activities, consider checking the forecast beforehand.
• Keep your government-issued ID handy if you plan to parasail.
• Expect a group atmosphere—this isn’t a private tour, so patience and flexibility are key.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This day trip to Key West from Fort Lauderdale offers a cost-effective way to experience the island’s highlights, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see the sights. The scenic drive over the Seven Mile Bridge and the chance to explore the town’s quirky charm make it a compelling option for first-timers. The optional upgrades—water activities, train, or trolley—add fun and flexibility, allowing you to customize the day.

While some travelers may find the long bus ride and crowd size challenging, the positive reviews about knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value suggest most will find this a worthwhile experience. It’s particularly suited for those wanting an organized straightforward trip, who don’t mind a full day of travel, and are excited about combining land and sea adventures.

In essence, if you’re looking for a high-value, adventure-packed day that takes the guesswork out of visiting Key West, this tour is worth considering. Just keep your expectations realistic about the long hours and possible weather hiccups, and you’ll likely have a memorable, fun-filled day.

FAQ

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from the Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport at 1900 Stirling Rd, Dania Beach, FL.

What time do we arrive in Key West?
Arrivals are around 11:30 am, giving you about 6 hours to explore.

Where does the tour drop us off?
You’ll be dropped off at 908 Caroline St. in Key West.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a swimsuit/towel if you plan to swim, snorkel, or parasail.

How long is the snorkeling trip?
The snorkeling adventure lasts approximately 3 hours on a well-equipped catamaran.

Can I participate if I don’t swim?
All participants in water activities need to be able to swim.

Is the glass-bottom boat ride included?
It’s an optional upgrade and lasts about two hours exploring the reef from below.

In the end, this tour offers a convenient, varied way to experience Key West’s highlights. With some planning and flexibility, you’ll find it a worthwhile adventure.