Key West

[teddycruzr]

We are sailing on the CP 2/26/05 and are considering a drive down to Key West a couple of days before the cruise. Has anyone done this? How much time should we take for the trip? Any suggestions for where we might want to stay? We've only been there a couple of times as a port on cruises and would like a little more time there + a chance to get warmed up before our cruise. Any help will be greatly appreciated!

[cynbar]

We love Key West and have been there several times. Usually we have stayed at the Wyndham Reach Resort. It's at the other end of Duvall St but it's not a long walk to the harbor end, with a lot of interesting shops and bars and restaurants along the way. It has its own beach (although small), which many of the resorts do not have, as well as a nice pool area and restaurant, and you can also use the facilities of the Casa Marina next door. It's also a little quieter environment. Some of our favorites are the sunset harbor cruise, dinner at Camille's, and dinner at Kelly McGillis' restaurant on Duvall St. Have a great time!

[chrysalis]

We are planning to do the same thing after our March Sun cruise, and intend to spend some time on some of the other "Keys" on the way down.

 

Enjoy!

 

marc

[WeBeGone]

We are sailing on the CP 2/26/05 and are considering a drive down to Key West a couple of days before the cruise. Has anyone done this? How much time should we take for the trip? Any suggestions for where we might want to stay? We've only been there a couple of times as a port on cruises and would like a little more time there + a chance to get warmed up before our cruise. Any help will be greatly appreciated!

There's tons of info on the Ports of Call board about Key West. It will take about 3 hours to drive from Miami depending on traffic and how many stops you make along the way.

[West Coast]

As others have mentioned this is doable. We did it on our last trip this past October. The drive is loooooong. Not only because you will want to stop along the way but because of the speed limitations. Some sections of the highway only have two lanes and some sections the speed is reduced to 40-45 mph. So, don't be fooled into thinking "Its only 160 miles," like we were!

 

There are a TON of bed and breakfasts in KW. We stayed at one and found it very easy to walk to just about eveerything.

 

If I were to pick a hotel, I would suggest the Crown Plaza right on Duval St.

 

And, if you're into the supernatural - be sure to do the ghost tour. We did, and were pleasantly surprised!

 

Enjoy KW - and give yourself at least two days :)

[mt_goodrich]

I was just in Key West a week ago for a work related matter. Yes...keep in mind, 160 miles from Miami is a long drive. There are a couple of section where you can drive 55, but not many. Also, mostly two lane highway.

 

One thing of note, lots of county sheriff vehicles along the way.

[teddycruzr]

Thanks for the info....has anyone had any luck with priceline in February? Any idea what a good bid is for this time of year midweek?

[bhopal21]

I have known quite a few to get a $99 rate for The Reach through Priceline with only a bit more for The Casa Marina. Keep in mind that both Wyndham properties charge an ambiguous "resort fee" in addition to your room rate.

 

Mike :D

[dosi]

Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to get to the ship. In fact, if possible, plan on coming in the day before. Not only is the highway a two lane road, but if there is a large accident the road will be closed and there is no alternate route. We got stuck for several hours once but luckily it was a couple days prior to our embarkation!! :)