You’re standing at the edge of the dock at Salty Sam’s Marina. The air is thick with that specific Southwest Florida salt-and-diesel scent. Ahead of you sits a massive, white-and-yellow catamaran that looks like it could outrun a tropical storm.
Most people think of the Key West Express in Fort Myers Florida as just a boat ride. A way to get from point A to point B.
Honestly? They’re missing the point entirely.
Taking the ferry isn't just about avoiding the "parking lot" that is US-1 through the Keys. It’s a complete shift in vibe. You trade a white-knuckled, six-hour crawl behind a rental minivan for a three-and-a-half-hour glide across the Gulf of Mexico with a cocktail in your hand. But before you tap that "Book Now" button, there are things you absolutely need to know. Things the glossy brochures don’t always emphasize.
The Reality of the "Vomit Comet" Label
Let’s address the elephant in the room. Or rather, the stomach in the throat.
Regulars sometimes call the ferry the "Vomit Comet." Is that fair? Usually, no. These catamarans are huge—the flagship vessel is a 170-foot jet-drive monster. They’re designed to slice through the water at 34 knots. Most days, it’s smoother than a Cadillac on a fresh highway.
But the Gulf of Mexico is a fickle beast.
If the wind picks up or a front is moving through, that 140-mile trek can get spicy. I’ve seen days where the water is like glass, and everyone is out on the deck sunbathing. I’ve also seen days where the crew is handing out ginger ale and motion sickness bags like they’re party favors.
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Basically, if you’re prone to seasickness, don't be a hero. Take the Dramamine before you board. By the time you feel the first lurch, it’s usually too late.
Getting to the Port: 1200 Main Street
The Key West Express in Fort Myers Florida operates out of Fort Myers Beach. Specifically, you’re looking for 1200 Main Street.
Pro tip: Don't just show up at 7:55 AM and expect to stroll on. Boarding starts at 7:00 AM, and they want you there early. They aren’t kidding about the 7:30 AM cutoff. If you miss it, you’re watching the boat pull away while you stand there holding your flip-flops.
- Parking: It’s roughly $18 a day now.
- Security: You’ll need a government-issued ID.
- Bag Check: They’re stricter than they used to be about size. Think "airplane carry-on" rules.
What’s Actually Inside the Boat?
It’s not just rows of plastic chairs.
Inside, it’s climate-controlled, which is a godsend in July. There are flat-screen TVs usually playing a movie, but the real action is at the galley. They have a full bar—bloody marys are the unofficial breakfast of the ferry—and a snack bar with hot dogs, pretzels, and standard "boat food."
It’s expensive. You’re on a captive island in the middle of the ocean for four hours, so expect "stadium prices" for your cheeseburger.
If you want the best seat, head for the mid-deck. It tends to be the most stable part of the ship. The top deck is where you go for the views and the wind-in-your-hair Instagram shots, but you’ll probably want to retreat to the AC after an hour of Florida sun.
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The Time Advantage: Boat vs. Car
Why pay over $130 for a ticket when you could just drive?
Geography is the answer. Driving from Fort Myers to Key West is about 145 miles, but those miles are deceptive. Once you hit Homestead and start down the Overseas Highway, you’re on a two-lane road. One accident, one slow-moving RV, or one drawbridge opening, and you’re stuck for hours.
The Key West Express in Fort Myers Florida takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, "buoy to buoy."
More importantly, it drops you at the Grinnell Street terminal in Key West. You are literally steps away from Duval Street. You don't have to find parking in a city where parking is a nightmare. You don't have to worry about driving back after a few margaritas at Sloppy Joe’s.
The One Mistake Most People Make
They try to do it in a day.
Yes, the ferry offers a round-trip day option. You arrive around noon and leave at 6:00 PM. But factor in the 5:00 PM boarding time, and you really only have about four and a half hours on the island.
That’s barely enough time to eat a piece of Key Lime pie and walk half of Duval Street.
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If you can, stay at least one night. Key West changes when the sun goes down and the day-trippers leave. The ferry ride back is often a social event in itself—everyone is sun-kissed, a little tired, and sharing stories about what they found in the quirky shops.
Weather and Cancellations
This is the part that catches tourists off guard. The Key West Express in Fort Myers Florida will cancel if the seas are too rough. They prioritize safety over your vacation schedule.
If you’re visiting from out of state and have a flight to catch, always have a Plan B. If the boat is grounded for two days due to high winds, you might find yourself scrambling for a rental car to make the long drive back north.
Check the weather forecast. Not the "rain" forecast—the "marine" forecast. If you see wave heights above 4-6 feet, there's a decent chance the sailing might be bumpy or postponed.
Actionable Tips for Your Trip
To make the most of your journey on the Key West Express in Fort Myers Florida, follow these steps:
- Book in Advance: Especially in the winter months (December through April), the boat sells out.
- The "Pre-Game" Rule: If you’re worried about seasickness, take your medication 30-60 minutes before you even step onto the dock.
- Pack Light: You’re allowed two carry-ons. Keep them small to avoid the $40 oversized bag fee.
- Download Movies: The Wi-Fi on the boat is notoriously spotty once you lose sight of land. Don't rely on streaming.
- Look for Dolphins: When the boat leaves the Fort Myers harbor and hits the open Gulf, keep your eyes on the wake. Dolphins love to jump in the jet-stream.
- Layer Up: The air conditioning inside the cabin can be surprisingly cold, even if it's 90 degrees outside. Bring a light hoodie.
Skip the traffic. Grab a seat by the window. The Gulf is waiting.