Cruise Ship Docking Days

Question

Husband and I will be down soon with March 31 through April 3 as our full days there. Does anyone know if cruise ships will be docked these days? or where I can find that info? We'd like to avoid crowds they'd bring on certain days we have things planned. Thanks!

Answer

During your stay in Key West from March 31 to April 3, you’ll likely see some cruise ship traffic, as this is a popular time for cruises. However, to avoid the crowds and plan your activities accordingly, it’s important to know when cruise ships will be docking in Key West.

How to Find Cruise Ship Schedules:

Key West Cruise Ship Schedule Websites: There are several websites and services that track cruise ship arrivals and departures for Key West. You can check out the schedule ahead of time for your specific travel dates. Websites like Port of Key West or third-party cruise tracking sites provide up-to-date information.
Port of Key West Website: The official Port of Key West website often posts daily cruise schedules, including the number of ships docked each day. This is a reliable way to see which days will be busier with tourists.
Contact Your Hotel: Many hotels in Key West, especially those in the Old Town area, are familiar with the cruise schedules. Don’t hesitate to ask the front desk or concierge if they can provide info on cruise ship arrivals during your stay.

Typical Cruise Ship Traffic:

Key West tends to get quite a few cruise ships during the busy winter and spring months, particularly around spring break. During your dates, expect there to be at least a few ships in port, though the number can vary. Usually, cruise ships dock at the Key West Bight, near the downtown area. This means that the busiest areas for shopping, dining, and sightseeing will be more crowded when cruise passengers are in port.

Tips to Avoid the Crowds:

Plan Early or Late: If you want to avoid the cruise ship crowds, consider visiting popular attractions early in the morning before the ships arrive or later in the afternoon when the passengers start heading back to their ships.
Explore Less Crowded Areas: While the Old Town area can get congested, there are quieter spots to explore. Consider visiting areas like the Southernmost Point, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, or Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park for a more peaceful experience.
Avoid Duval Street During Peak Hours: Duval Street tends to get packed with cruise ship passengers during the middle of the day. Early mornings and later evenings are quieter times to visit this famous street.

Alternative Locations: If you find the crowds overwhelming, consider exploring nearby attractions like Dry Tortugas National Park, which requires a ferry ride and can offer a more serene experience, or rent a bike or scooter to explore some of the quieter streets of Key West.

Overall, while there will be some cruise ships during your stay, with a little planning, you can definitely avoid the worst of the crowds and enjoy Key West’s charm. I recommend checking the cruise schedule online or asking your hotel for help in planning your activities.