If you’re planning a trip to Key West, you might be wondering if cruise ships are banned from the island. The answer is yes, but it’s a bit more complicated than that. In November 2020, the residents of Key West voted in favor of three referendums that limit the size and number of cruise ships that can visit the island.
The Referendums
The first referendum limits the number of passengers disembarking from a cruise ship to 1,500 per day. The second referendum prohibits ships with a capacity of more than 1,300 passengers from docking in Key West. The third referendum requires cruise lines to prioritize ships with the best environmental and health records.
These referendums were proposed by a group called “Key West Committee for Safer Cleaner Ships,” which argued that large cruise ships were damaging the environment, harming marine life, and overcrowding the island. They also claimed that these ships were not beneficial to the local economy because most passengers only spent a few hours on the island and didn’t contribute much money.
The Impact
While these referendums were passed by a majority vote, they have faced legal challenges from both the state of Florida and several major cruise lines. These challenges argue that these referendums violate state laws and will harm both the local economy and tourism industry.
It’s important to note that while these referendums are in effect, they have not yet been fully implemented due to legal challenges and delays caused by COVID-19. As of now, some smaller cruise ships can still visit Key West, but larger ones are prohibited until further notice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it’s true that there are limitations on cruise ship visits to Key West, it’s important to understand the context and reasons behind these restrictions. Whether or not these referendums will ultimately remain in effect remains to be seen, but for now, visitors to Key West can still enjoy the island’s many attractions and activities without the crowds that large cruise ships bring.