Almost time….

Question

We’ll be arriving weds-Sunday this week (FINALLY) it’s been a long winter in New Jersey lol. My son (8) requested a sunset cruise, my husband and I did one a few years ago, however the night we did it was cloudy, & we actually never saw the “sunset” (still had a good time!) any recommendations for sunsets cruises you loved? I think we did Sebago? Also. Is there anyway of checking before i book the cloud cover? Thank you!

Answer

It sounds like you're about to have a fantastic trip to Key West! It’s great that your son is excited about a sunset cruise — they’re one of the highlights of Key West. As for your previous experience with Sebago, it’s a popular company, but there are a few other sunset cruise options that might offer a different experience. Here are some recommendations based on local favorites:

Fury Water Adventures – Known for their lively and entertaining sunset cruises, Fury offers several different options, including a more relaxed, family-friendly sail with drinks and snacks included. They have a great reputation for friendly staff and an excellent view of the sunset. Their catamarans are spacious, and they also offer some fun extras like water sports before the sunset if you're looking for more activity during the cruise.
Sunset Sail Key West – This one is a little more intimate and offers a more laid-back experience. They operate a beautiful, classic schooner, and the crew is fantastic at providing a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. It’s a great choice for those who want a quieter sunset experience. They often limit the number of guests, which ensures a more personal experience.
Danger Charters – If you’re looking for a smaller, more intimate sailing experience, Danger Charters offers a top-notch, luxury sunset cruise. They provide a great combination of relaxation and excitement, often including drinks, light bites, and a fantastic crew. Their sunset cruises are known for being quieter and more scenic, giving you an excellent view of the Key West sunset without a big crowd.
Key West Eco Tours – If you want a cruise that focuses a bit more on nature and the surrounding waters, Key West Eco Tours offers a great sunset cruise with a focus on local wildlife, such as dolphins and seabirds, while still making the sunset the star of the show. It's a fun way to enjoy the sunset while also learning about the ecosystem of Key West.

As for checking cloud cover before you book, unfortunately, there isn’t a foolproof way to predict exactly how the weather will be that day, but you can try using a weather app or website that specializes in local forecasts, such as the Weather Channel, AccuWeather, or even a specific Key West weather forecast. Some apps provide hourly forecasts for cloud cover and even offer a "sunset" forecast, showing whether you might have clear skies or cloudy conditions. Typically, the earlier you book your cruise, the better, as sunset cruises tend to get booked up quickly, especially in peak seasons.

Just keep in mind that Key West sunsets are beautiful no matter the cloud cover — even if the sun isn't visible, the sky can turn incredible shades of pink and orange, making for a lovely experience. A lot of people still find the experience unforgettable, even if they don’t get a perfect "sunset." It sounds like you had a great time on your previous trip despite the clouds!