When visiting Key West, booking a sunset cruise is one of the top experiences you shouldn’t miss. Known for its breathtaking southernmost sunsets, Key West offers a variety of unforgettable options to see the sun dip below the horizon from the water and if you’re lucky you’ll experience the infamous green flash (we haven’t).
Whether you’re planning to book a romantic schooner sail, a lively catamaran party cruise with music, or a floating tiki bar experience for your group, these top-rated Key West sunset tours make for the perfect evening on the water.
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We’ve experienced each of them in our frequent trips to the Keys and love them all! You can even experience a few if you do a different one each night of your vacation!
These are our top 8 recommendations in no particular order because we love them all and try to experience several if there is time on a trip to Key West! We usually book tours through GetYourGuide because we like their cancellation policies and having all of our tickets on their app.
1. Key West Schooner Sunset Sail
- Average Price Range: $90-$120 per person
- Description: Sail aboard a traditional schooner and immerse yourself in a historic sailing experience complete with complimentary beverages.
- Why It’s Top-Rated: A romantic, timeless adventure. Perfect for couples looking to book a classic Key West Schooner sunset cruise.
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2. Catamaran Sunset Cruise with Music and Food
- Average Price Range: $80-$100 per person
- Description: Relax aboard a spacious catamaran and enjoy live music, cocktails, and appetizers while taking in panoramic views of the sunset.
- Why It’s Top-Rated: A favorite among groups and couples. Book this popular catamaran sunset tour for stunning views and a lively vibe. The one-man band on the cruise we took with them was awesome! We loved the unlimited appetizers too.
3. Floating Tiki Bar Key West Sunset Tour
- Price Range: $60-$100 per person, but the private group option is the best at 457.00 when you divide by the 6 that will fit on the boat! We do this every trip!
- Description: A unique, intimate tiki-themed boat tour featuring tropical drinks, music, and a fun island vibe. It’s BYOB and snacks. We usually bring prosecco and mini M & M’s (fancy, I know!)
- Why It’s Top-Rated: One of the most fun and quirky ways to enjoy the sunset. Reserve this tiki boat sunset cruise in Key West for unforgettable photos.
⚓️You may have read about unsafe Key West tiki boat tours, but these are Not those! They are actual boats and the ride is great to see amazing sunsets!
4. Dolphin & Snorkel Sailing Sunset Cruise
- Price Range: $70-$80 per person
- Description: Experience Key West sunsets aboard a as well as dolphins and snorkeling! It is a perfect way to end the day.
- Why It’s Top-Rated: Ideal for seeing it all! book a Dolphin and Snorkeling sunset cruise experience.
5. Glass Bottom Boat Sunset Cruise
- Why It’s Top-Rated: A glass-bottom sunset tour in Key West that is family-friendly and combines marine exploration with golden-hour beauty.
- Average Price Range: $59-$80 per person
- Description: Enjoy Key West’s marine life through a glass-bottom boat as the sun sets, offering a unique underwater viewing experience. We saw several species of fish as well as a turtle swimming by on ours!
6. Sunset Dinner Cruise
- Average Price Range: $90-$120 per person
- Description: Enjoy a delicious onboard dinner as you cruise past Key West’s famous landmarks during sunset.
- Why It’s Top-Rated: A top pick for foodies. Book a Key West sunset dinner cruise for a romantic and flavorful evening. We thought the food was pretty good and would do it again.
7. Sunset Party Cruise
- Average Price Range: $80-$90 per person
- Description: Dance, drink, eat, and enjoy music aboard a lively party boat, creating an upbeat sunset celebration.
- Why It’s Top-Rated: A great option for those searching for a fun Key West sunset party cruise with live music and drinks. It was a fun time for our group and we all had a great time.
8. Private Sunset Sail
- Average Price Range: $400-$500 per group (this may seem pricey, but if everyone puts in it is the same or less than the per person charge large group sail!)
- Description: Charter your private boat and enjoy an exclusive sunset experience tailored just for you and your guests.
- Why It’s Top-Rated: Perfect for proposals, birthdays, and special occasions. Book a private sunset sail in Key West for a truly unforgettable evening.
FAQS about Key West Sunset Cruises
Book at least a week in advance, especially during peak travel season from December to April, to ensure availability for top-rated tours. We usually book really early on our must-do tours just in case.
Yes, many tours accommodate families and offer activities suitable for all ages, especially the glass-bottom boat and catamaran tours. The tiki boat tours are adults-only.
Dress comfortably in casual attire and bring a light jacket in January or February for the cooler evening breeze.
Yes, cruises are available year-round, weather permitting. Many offer last-minute and same-day bookings depending on availability so it’s usually possible to get on one the day-of.
Other ways we love experiencing sunsets in Key West:
- We absolutely love and highly recommend the unique Lighthouse sunset experience in Key West (we’ve done it twice!)
- Sunsets from Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach are amazing! (read about that an other tips in our Key West one day guide)
- 3 of our favorite hotels, Hyatt Centric, The Reach, and Casa Marina have wonderful sunset views! (See our Key West hotel guide)
- Louie’s Backyard (upstairs bar) has an unforgettable sunset view too!
- Of course, classic Mallory Square is a top land-based way to experience Key West sunsets!
- IF you time it right, the top of the tower at the Key West Shipwreck Museum has a perfect view!
More Key West Trip Planning Inspiration:
We have some other guides and articles for Key West to help you plan an amazing trip!
- Best Food Trucks and Quick Bites in Old Town Key West Guide
- Best Things to do in Key West in a Day
- Where to eat in Key West – Our top Foodie Picks
- Explore Unique Art Deco Landmarks in Key West Walking Guide
- Top Florida Keys Campgrounds Guide
- Why Bahia Honda State Park is the Best Stop on a Roadtrip to the Keys
Final Thoughts on the Best Key West Sunset Cruises:
Booking a sunset cruise is one of the best things to do in Key West and there’s no shortage of amazing options. We love all of them! From tiki boats to fun catamaran cruises, to elegant schooner sails, you’re sure to find a perfect match for your trip too. Don’t wait! Book your Key West sunset sail early and experience one of the most magical sunsets you’ll ever see. 🌅
Author’s Note
As frequent travelers to Key West and avid sunset chasers, we’ve personally experienced and highly recommend each tour listed. We strive to offer accurate, helpful, and trustworthy recommendations so you can fully enjoy your visit to this paradise too. Don’t forget to check our other Key West guides for more insider tips and travel inspiration! ~ K.J. (Travelmakesmehappy.com)