Key West - Port of Call - Cruise Itinerary

Over the years, Key West, FL has become a port of call for passenger cruise lines, including Disney.  Many adults hear "Key West" and assume it's an adults-only paradise and wonder why a cruise line, such as Disney, would bother stopping at Key West.  I disagree and, almost a year ago, went into detail outlining the family friendly aspects of a Key West vacation.  (You can read that here.). So why am I talking about it again?  Because when I read something that leaves me shaking my head, this is my way of releasing my frustrations.

Let's talk Disney Cruise Line for a minute.  If I had to pick a cruise, I would go with Disney.  I like to say that I'm not a Disney person, but maybe I am.  If you research norovirus outbreaks and safety issues, Disney ships are not a concern.  In fact, the CDC currently lists three Disney ships (Wonder, Fantasy, and Dream) has having received a sanitation score of 100.

If you are planning a cruise which will be docking in Key West, research the onshore excursions and please do something other than wander around touristy shops next to the dock.  Especially if you have children.  Key West is a fascinating place, and very unique, and it's a disservice to your kids if you don't give them the opportunity to learn.  There's a lot of history there and so much can be gleaned from a simple tour ride, which won't be too taxing on you either as you just sit and listen.  Walking is not required.

Currently, the Disney Magic cruise ship has been stopping in Key West and my online research shows that for March, guests debark and head ashore as early as 7:30AM and need to be back onboard by 3:30PM. Assuming you are up early and there are no long lines departing the ship, that gives you almost 8 hours to explore the island.

Here are some ideas of what I would do if I found myself docking in Key West with kids:

1.  Ride the Conch Tour Train - I personally prefer the little train over the trolley tour as I feel like you are able to see more (as in - it's easier to see out of the vehicle) on the train, but the trolley is another excellent option.  The Conch Tour Train ride is 75 minutes long and makes three stops.  You are able to hop on/off in order to explore.

2.  Visit the Key West Aquarium - Check out local sea creatures.

3.  Visit Ernest Hemingway's home - Older children can even read The Old Man and the Sea.

4.  Climb to the top of the Key West Lighthouse - For wondrous views of the island.  

5.  EAT KEY LIME PIE!!!

So there are my 2 cents.  Obviously, there is so much more you can do and see in Key West but with time constraints and allowing for some down time (yes, it's okay to shop), you won't be able to fit in everything.  If I had to recommend one activity, it would definitely be the Conch Tour Train or a Trolley Tour.  And Key lime pie, of course.

Key West is still very high on my travel list.  It would be a return trip for me and Rich, first time for the girls.  At this point in time, it looks like Hawaii is at the very top of our "big" vacation list.

One last thing before I go.  A note on travel agents.  Travel agents who book Disney vacations and/or cruises do not need to charge you a fee because they are earning commissions directly from Disney.  If you contact a travel agent regarding a Disney vacation, and he/she wants to bill you a fee, please find another travel agency.  If your internet search has left you with a billion hits and you don't know how to differentiate between different agencies, look for ones who display the Authorized Disney Vacation Planner logo on their site.  This is a distinction made by Disney when a travel agency meets specific criteria.  Not every agency is allowed to display that logo.