Hey everyone! We started a Members Only Community. Join to get access to behind the scenes fun and free swag! Thank you so much! ua-cam.com/channels/D2ppXbUzuYS6WkaUrPct-g.htmljoin
We have been talking about doing this. Our son went and he recommends it big time. Maybe we can get our daughter and husband to join us and make a family "summer thing". Thank you guys for this video. Gonna spread it around for sure. Keep up your great videos.
We had a great time taking this down to Key West. The only problem was that it was rough coming back. Luckily, we had taken some Bonine before we left and were fine - others were not.
Oh yes, been on this about 3 times...but when we went years ago the tix were 100! Great experience as long as the seas are calmish. Not so much if not. Regardless, i strongly suggest asking your doc for a Rx for "the patch". It goes on the back of your ear the night before. Works like a charm. (Its also meant for those who have trouble with anesthesia and get sick from it. Which is why it's an Rx.) Drove to KW 2x also. Both have their pro's and con's.
I made this trip once, almost 10 years ago, I would not recommend it. The return trip seemed like 10 hours, the boat was so crowded that you could not leave your seats as a couple, because they'd be taken once you got up. My next trip to Key West will be a drive from Fort Myers, I know it's a lot longer, but much more scenic and I get to check out all the islands along the way.
1st time my wife and I went to Key West, we did it by car. We had to. 7 miles bridge, unbelievable views on a car ride I'll never forget. Stopping in marathon at the turtle hospital. This was 2 years ago, just 3 weeks before Ian. My profile pic is taken 2 years ago in Key West. Next time (maybe around Christmas New Years 2025/2026), we'll do the boat trip from Ft. Myers Beach. We always stay in CC. Any inside in how things are looking around Sanibel/Captiva/Ft. Myers Beach almost 21 month after Ian?
Agreed, drive down by car is unbelievable, so many views, awesome bars, and the whole experience. Takes a bit, but island time in all. The ferry is great. Fast and convenient.
@@CaribbeanCastaways Glad to hear. Looking forwar for next trip. Cannot visit to often from Germany and being bound on 3 weeks of summer vacation. July and august is a tough time in FL weather for middle europeans 🤣
I live here in Ft. Myers, and things are definitely _not_ doing so good on any of those island spots. The beach has roughly 40% of rooms available and Sanibel is even worse with about 17% available. It's been a very slow haul. But, any business you can give them would be greatly appreciated (especially if you call VIP Limo for airport transportation ;-)). By 25/26, things should be a lot better but make sure you give enough time in advance to book accommodations.
Been severai times. Bad transit one time due to hurricane in the gulf. To me best way to go. Traffic on US 1 can be really bad and little parking in Key West. Sit at the bar, watch the movie, have a sandwich. Enjoy yourself!!!
... if you drive be prepared for high gas prices and parking fees ... the ship is the way to go tho a real time saver too ... theres a bus option if seas get too rough ... get a sub Sammy for the trip back is a good move too ..
Fair enough. The drive is amazing. We live in Fort Myers so the boat makes it super easy. Being at sea seeing the islands come into view is pretty cool too.
Hi. I loved this recommendation. Can you tell me how much it costs round trip and with what time the tickets are taken out and how long the trip is it on the day?
It's a great option, but I think I'll just keep flying my airplane down one hour and 15 min from Tampa. 115 trips over 24 years and often as a day trip leave by 9am and back to Tampa by 5pm. Key West were the rules just don't apply. Fly Fast and Live Slow!
We took it down last week, each way was 4 hours not 3.5. They must have different boats in use, the bar area looks nothing like this one, there wasn't much variety, only a kitchen area, with food and a few drink choices
I have been on this twice. There is nothing to do. No gambling, no where to lounge laying out, very cramped, . Unless you are an alcoholic and love high priced booze the activities are boring. The food is minimal.
It's a ferry, what do you want. I thought the seating is great. There are couches, seats, high tops, and out door seats. having a drink is not being an alcoholic.
Lovely except. The whole boat was deathly sea sick on way back due to very rough seas but nothing holds them back! Be prepared! Dramamine, wristlets or bith just sayin!
I agree, and while watching I was hoping someone would mention it so I could agree lol Piping in music to wash out 'island sounds' isn't a way I want to visit an 'island time' video. The natural sound makes the viewing experience more authentic. I can see integrating it at times, but lol I'd prefer different music.
Hey everyone! We started a Members Only Community. Join to get access to behind the scenes fun and free swag! Thank you so much! ua-cam.com/channels/D2ppXbUzuYS6WkaUrPct-g.htmljoin
As someone who has been to the Florida Keys over 40 times, driving it is the best. The places to see, stop, and eat are fantastic.
Love driving as well. Lots of great places to explore the entire way down. It's nice to have a fast ferry option too though.
My wife and I opt for driving. Why you ask? Because driving the keys is so beautiful and the drive is part of the experience.
@@tize3994 Absolutely. Take the ferry and you have to find transportation which has to be pricey.
Thank you two for getting this info out!! Love your vids!! Been in Cape Coral since 2009 but never ventured down to KW. Looks easy!! THX!!!!
No problem. You gotta get down there. The Florida Keys are a special place. Definitely a must experience.
We have been talking about doing this. Our son went and he recommends it big time. Maybe we can get our daughter and husband to join us and make a family "summer thing". Thank you guys for this video. Gonna spread it around for sure. Keep up your great videos.
You'll love it. Very comfortable ride even when seas are choppy. Full bar and food onboard as well. Cheers!
We love this trip! The Key West Express is an excellent ride. The crew is awesome. Great hospitality and that big boat FLIES! Highly recommended.
My husband’s Jeff an I did this in October 2023, you need 3 days to really enjoy the island and go to “Sloppy Joes”…. Yummmm
We been going for years and still finding new places. Such a great island.
Will definitely check them out next year when we go down to Sanibel for vacation.
You'll have a great time.
Nice video, I wonder why people can’t wave Hi anymore they GOTA pose signs. lol 👋
I'll be waving my friend!
We had a great time taking this down to Key West. The only problem was that it was rough coming back. Luckily, we had taken some Bonine before we left and were fine - others were not.
Glad to hear you had a good time. Yeah, it's AOS good idea to take motion sickness pills just in case. Cheers!
Oh yes, been on this about 3 times...but when we went years ago the tix were 100! Great experience as long as the seas are calmish. Not so much if not. Regardless, i strongly suggest asking your doc for a Rx for "the patch". It goes on the back of your ear the night before. Works like a charm. (Its also meant for those who have trouble with anesthesia and get sick from it. Which is why it's an Rx.) Drove to KW 2x also. Both have their pro's and con's.
Cheers!
I made this trip once, almost 10 years ago, I would not recommend it. The return trip seemed like 10 hours, the boat was so crowded that you could not leave your seats as a couple, because they'd be taken once you got up. My next trip to Key West will be a drive from Fort Myers, I know it's a lot longer, but much more scenic and I get to check out all the islands along the way.
Take some Dramamine and you'll be fine.
1st time my wife and I went to Key West, we did it by car. We had to. 7 miles bridge, unbelievable views on a car ride I'll never forget. Stopping in marathon at the turtle hospital. This was 2 years ago, just 3 weeks before Ian.
My profile pic is taken 2 years ago in Key West.
Next time (maybe around Christmas New Years 2025/2026), we'll do the boat trip from Ft. Myers Beach. We always stay in CC.
Any inside in how things are looking around Sanibel/Captiva/Ft. Myers Beach almost 21 month after Ian?
Agreed, drive down by car is unbelievable, so many views, awesome bars, and the whole experience. Takes a bit, but island time in all. The ferry is great. Fast and convenient.
Sanibel and Captiva are doing better. Places opening all the time. The popular places are mostly open now. Still paradise.
@@CaribbeanCastaways Glad to hear. Looking forwar for next trip. Cannot visit to often from Germany and being bound on 3 weeks of summer vacation. July and august is a tough time in FL weather for middle europeans 🤣
I live here in Ft. Myers, and things are definitely _not_ doing so good on any of those island spots. The beach has roughly 40% of rooms available and Sanibel is even worse with about 17% available. It's been a very slow haul. But, any business you can give them would be greatly appreciated (especially if you call VIP Limo for airport transportation ;-)). By 25/26, things should be a lot better but make sure you give enough time in advance to book accommodations.
leaving on the Key West Express out of Ft Myers in three weeks.
Have a great time!
Been severai times. Bad transit one time due to hurricane in the gulf. To me best way to go. Traffic on US 1 can be really bad and little parking in Key West. Sit at the bar, watch the movie, have a sandwich. Enjoy yourself!!!
Agreed. 90% of the time the weather and sea conditions are perfect. Go and enjoy!
... if you drive be prepared for high gas prices and parking fees ... the ship is the way to go tho a real time saver too ... theres a bus option if seas get too rough ... get a sub Sammy for the trip back is a good move too ..
Good tip on the pub sub!
Is there a cheaper alternative for parking your vehicle at the Fort Myers part?
The overseas highway is the only way for me, if I’m not getting off a plane right in keywest.
Fair enough. The drive is amazing. We live in Fort Myers so the boat makes it super easy. Being at sea seeing the islands come into view is pretty cool too.
Hi. I loved this recommendation. Can you tell me how much it costs round trip and with what time the tickets are taken out and how long the trip is it on the day?
Hi! I believe it's $180 for a round trip ticket. They do a $99 special once a year around the holidays. Trip is about 3.5 hours.
It's a great option, but I think I'll just keep flying my airplane down one hour and 15 min from Tampa. 115 trips over 24 years and often as a day trip leave by 9am and back to Tampa by 5pm. Key West were the rules just don't apply. Fly Fast and Live Slow!
Amen, good for you man. I bet that's a great flight. Pick me up some time and rounds are on me! Cheers
How is Key West in the summer months? We now live in s.w. Florida but haven't been to Key West in decades. Too hot and sweaty, or are there breezes?
Sure it gets hot, but just tuck into a shady bar, find a pool, or head out on the ocean. Always something to do.
@@CaribbeanCastaways thank you! In your opinion, which is the best month to visit, and why?
Pro tip ride up front dolphins love to ride pressure wave on bow and are more visible up front
Definitely faster than flying or driving unless you have access to a private plane
Thanks!
What is the cost?
I believe it's $185 for a round trip.
Funny how they leave out the price of the ticket! DAAAAAA
It's on the website. Prices change.
How much?
Website says $185 for a round trip ticket.
We took it down last week, each way was 4 hours not 3.5. They must have different boats in use, the bar area looks nothing like this one, there wasn't much variety, only a kitchen area, with food and a few drink choices
Yes, they do have two different boats. They use the smaller one when not as many people are booked.
I have been on this twice. There is nothing to do. No gambling, no where to lounge laying out, very cramped, . Unless you are an alcoholic and love high priced booze the activities are boring. The food is minimal.
It's a ferry, what do you want. I thought the seating is great. There are couches, seats, high tops, and out door seats. having a drink is not being an alcoholic.
It’s transportation from the mainland to the Keys. It’s not a cruise for crying out loud.
Having a cocktail or beer does mean you are an alcoholic! Jeez
Sure beats driving all that ways and saves lots of time!
@@susancedio3801no, it doesn’t! Sheesh!
Lovely except. The whole boat was deathly sea sick on way back due to very rough seas but nothing holds them back! Be prepared! Dramamine, wristlets or bith just sayin!
They won't go if it unsafe, but yes I do recommend Dramamine if it's going to be sporty out on the sea.
The music junked another video 👎👎👎👎👎💩💩💩💩😬
What? It's chill tropical toned music man. Relax and settle into island time.
I agree, and while watching I was hoping someone would mention it so I could agree lol
Piping in music to wash out 'island sounds' isn't a way I want to visit an 'island time' video. The natural sound makes the viewing experience more authentic. I can see integrating it at times, but lol I'd prefer different music.
By far the easiest way to get down to Key West from the gulf side.
Agreed.
Beautiful down there!