Multi-Day Voyage

    Miami to Key West Yacht Charter

    160 miles through the Florida Keys. Snorkel pristine reefs, fish legendary waters, and island-hop your way to the southernmost point in the continental United States.

    The Route

    A 5-day itinerary through the best of the Florida Keys, customizable to your pace and interests.

    Day 160 mi

    Miami to Key Largo

    Travel time: 3-4 hours

    • Depart Miami mid-morning
    • Afternoon snorkeling at John Pennekamp
    • Overnight at Key Largo marina
    Day 225 mi

    Key Largo to Islamorada

    Travel time: 1-2 hours

    • Morning fishing on the flats
    • Lunch at waterfront restaurant
    • Theater of the Sea visit
    • Sunset anchorage
    Day 330 mi

    Islamorada to Marathon

    Travel time: 2-3 hours

    • Cross the famous Seven Mile Bridge
    • Visit the Turtle Hospital
    • Swim and snorkel at Sombrero Reef
    • Overnight at Boot Key Harbor
    Day 450 mi

    Marathon to Key West

    Travel time: 4-5 hours

    • Stop at Bahia Honda State Park
    • Snorkel Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary
    • Arrive Key West mid-afternoon
    • Mallory Square sunset celebration
    Day 50 mi

    Key West Exploration

    Travel time: Full day in port

    • Duval Street walking tour
    • Optional Dry Tortugas day trip
    • Ernest Hemingway Home
    • Final sunset at sea

    Planning Your Miami to Key West Charter

    The voyage from Miami to Key West is one of the most spectacular coastal cruises in the United States. Stretching 160 nautical miles through the Florida Keys archipelago, this route takes you past 1,700+ islands, over the only living coral barrier reef in the continental US, and through waters teeming with marine life.

    Choosing Your Route

    There are two primary routes from Miami to Key West. The Atlantic Ocean route follows the reef line on the ocean side of the Keys, offering deeper water and faster transit but more exposure to wind and waves. The Florida Bay route travels through the calmer, shallower waters on the Gulf side, with more anchorage options and wildlife viewing but requiring careful navigation through channels.

    What to Expect

    Most captains recommend a 4-5 day itinerary to properly experience the Keys. This pace allows for morning fishing sessions, afternoon snorkeling at world-class reef sites, and evening dock-side dining at waterfront restaurants. Rushing the trip in 2-3 days means missing the best parts.

    Provisioning

    Your yacht will be fully provisioned before departure from Miami with groceries, beverages, snorkeling gear, and any special requests. Along the route, fresh seafood from local fish markets and dining at iconic Keys restaurants supplement the onboard provisions.

    Miami to Key West Charter FAQs

    How long does it take to get from Miami to Key West by yacht?
    The voyage is approximately 160 nautical miles and takes 8-12 hours depending on yacht speed and route. Most charters make it a 3-5 day trip with overnight stops along the Florida Keys at Islamorada, Marathon, and Bahia Honda.
    How much does a Miami to Key West yacht charter cost?
    A 3-day Key West trip starts at $10,000-$20,000 for a 55-70ft yacht. A 5-day round trip with stops ranges from $20,000-$50,000+. Pricing includes captain, crew, fuel, and standard amenities. Provisioning and marina fees are additional.
    Can I fly back from Key West instead of yachting both ways?
    Yes. One-way charters from Miami to Key West are popular. Key West International Airport has frequent flights to Miami (45 minutes). One-way pricing is typically 60-70% of a round-trip charter.
    What is the best route from Miami to Key West?
    Two primary routes: the Atlantic side (offshore, faster but more exposed) and the Florida Bay/Intracoastal route (calmer, more scenic, with more anchorage options). Most captains choose based on weather conditions and your itinerary preferences.
    What stops should I make between Miami and Key West?
    Top stops include: Key Largo (John Pennekamp snorkeling), Islamorada (sport fishing capital), Marathon (Turtle Hospital, Seven Mile Bridge), Bahia Honda (best beach in the Keys), and Big Pine Key (Key deer, Looe Key reef). Each offers unique experiences.
    When is the best time for a Miami to Key West charter?
    November through May offers the calmest seas and best weather. March-April is ideal with light winds and warm water. Summer months are warmer but can have afternoon thunderstorms. Hurricane season (June-November) requires flexible scheduling.

    Start Planning Your Keys Voyage

    Browse multi-day yachts or speak with our team to customize your Miami to Key West itinerary.

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