Hello, I am looking for a boat (ferry, shuttle, cruise, etc) to Key West from the east (Tampa, Port Manatee, Fort Myers, etc.). There are 8 people in our party and we want to get to Key West by boat, stay over one night, and then return the next day. Other than your typical cruiseliner (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, etc.), are they any other services that offer this? And where could I find such a place?
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
P.R.

There are two places for what you are looking for. One is at Marco Island at the Marco River Marina and the 2nd one is in Ft. Myers at the Salty Sam's Marina. If you are needing the website, it will explain everything to you as well as the cost, usually around $100/person. Pick a day that the water will be smooth so as not to upset your tummy. :D Here is the webste: www.keywestshuttle.com/main.htm. Have fun in Key West!

There is a speed boat out of Ft. Myers that leaves in the a.m. for $150 r/t; takes 3 hrs to get to Key West I don't know the name of it but hopefully you can find it...

I have a friend who just used the ferry from Ft. Myers beach, and he LOVED it... it took 4 hours, it was cheap and they had a great bar on board! Warning, however, they close the bathrooms 1 hour before arriving each way! (funny little FYI)

I am looking for some type of transporation (other than a bus) from either the orlando or tampa, fl area to key west. I can fly into Ft. Lauderdale if I have to. I am looking for something cheap because I am attending my niece's wedding and the cost of the hotel alone is going to be expense. Any suggestions?

From Ft. Myers (near Tampa), you can take Cape Air, which is a VERY affordable little local commuter plane service to Key West (we love them), or, if the weather is lovely, the Ferry is fabulous!

Here is a site that might help you with your question. http://fla-keys.com/keywest/gettinghere.htm