Key West is the most southerly town in Florida on the main island of Florida Keys. It is a very tourist-oriented town that enchants visitors with its sub-tropical serenity, laid-back lifestyle and Caribbean flair. In the early 19th century the town lived from piracy and looting sunken ships. In the late 19th century the residents of the town made a living from the cigar industry, sponge diving and hunting sea turtles. Tourism began to flourish with the expansion of the railway lines in 1912. The town's most famous resident was Ernest Hemmingway, who lived in Key West during the 1930s and 40s. Duval Street in the old town, a colourful mix of small shops, bars and restaurants, is a must-see. Key West also has many museums such as Key West Aquarium. One of the most famous attractions is watching the sun go down at Mallory Square Docks: tourists, locals, street performers and street traders gather on the beach and the promenade to experience the sunset. There are usually fireworks afterwards too.

Tips for excursions

Round the old town by tram

This tour is a must for all those who are visiting Key West for the first time. Enjoy this hour-long tour with commentary in our comfortable tram or unique Triton's horn train. Among other things, your guide will show you the house and museum of Ernest Hemingway, the Audobon house and the "little White House" where Harry S. Truman took time out from presidential stress. Then it's back to the quay, where you can return to the ship or stroll through the shops. The tour lasts about one-hour and does not involve physical exertion.

Key West Cup Regatta

This exciting sport involves some of the fastest racing catamarans in the Caribbean. You will participate in a 1 1/2 hour yacht race - but you don't need any prior sailing experience! Whether furling sails, holding the tiller or watching the time, you are part of the team. Your captain will explain the positions in detail and after a short period of practice it's off to the regatta! There are toilets on board. This tour requires relatively little physical exertion with short interruptions, and lasts around three hours.

Kayaking in Key West

Paddle a short distance in Cow Bay channel and see white herons, egrets, eagles and other maritime life. You may even be able to discover a manatee in Cow Bay channel. This channel separates Key West from the rest of the keys. See exclusive houses, mangrove swamps and the famous salt pools. Stable single and double kayaks are available. No prior experience of kayaking is necessary. This tour lasts about 2 1/2 hours and may involve physical exertion. Please bring a pair of shorts.