Another item that many ask is once I get to Key West, where do i find, or how do I …. yup a large and wandering grouping but hopefully this will help fill some of the blanks in from a boaters point of view/or/travel. Updating as we go.
Where do I put my boat? Many, not all, will anchor out once they arrive in Key West. The most popular is just N of the downtown waterfront area in the vicinity of N Fleming Key, a mix of grass, sand, and private moorings. The water depth varies from 7 ft to over 25 ft. Tides can run well above 3 kts, and the occasional summer squall means make sure you set your anchor well. This is much preferred over anchoring across the channel near Wisteria Island. Too shallow, and poor holding might leave you with a high and dry issues. The second area is the city mooring field, at Key West Garrison Bight Marina. Over 95 mooring balls, with daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Current monthly rate is around $370 a month. This includes a dinghy spot, not in the downtown area, as well as a parking spot if needed. Next is one of the several Marinas here in downtown area. A&B, Couch Harbor, Key West Bight, Galleon. Just to name a few. Rates and space varies, but don’t be surprised at neatly $3 a foot or more if available, and even that is not long term.
Where do i land my Dinghy? The city maintains a dinghy dock downtown, with daily, weekly or monthly rates. If your only in town a couple of days just go with the daily rate. More than that spring for the monthly rate of $87/month. Secure, walk off and right into any one of a dozen restaurants. Right down town. If you opt for the mooring field, their dock is nearly a mile from Duval Street. If you plan on being here more than a couple days, spring for a weekly dock space downtown. Much more convenient.
Laundromat? There is actually 3 within relative distance to either dock. A folding cart from Amazon is a great investment. Margaret-Truman laundry offers drop off service, but also free WiFi while doing laundry.
Water? At both dinghy docks there is hose bibs with city water available without being metered. At fuel docks, this varies to as much as .20 per gallon.
Fuel? There is two fuel docks located right off downtown area at both Key West Bight and Conch Harbor. Either pull up boat or bring fuel cans in. Last cost (6/8/18) of diesel was showing $3.74/gal.
Groceries? These is several options, but most need a Uber/Taxi to get there. GFS (Gordons Food Service) is a great option for Bulk, and just a 1/4 mile further you have both Winn Dixie and Publix’s. Several little bleeders around town , but you will pay premium prices for most items due to location
Propane. The local spot for filling refillable propane tanks is right after the intersection of Palm and Roosevelt at the Shell station.
Hardware a couple of options, Strunk Ace is about 1/4 mile walk, and yet Key West Marine Hardware is across the street from dinghy dock. West Marine is about a minute from docks. Home Depot is across town.
Internet Several businesses offer free Wifi while in close proximity. Cuban Coffee Queen is right outside dinghy docks. Outside sitting, but close. Favorite is Starbucks up off Duval. 10 min walk, but nice table/chairs.