Carnival Freedom: A Day in Key West

Even though Key West isn't a "big" town--Duval Street is a mere 14 blocks long from sea to sea--we maximized our short time in port by taking a tour on the Old Town Trolley to see some of the landmarks we've missed during our past explorations around town.

One of Key West's newest attractions, and bound to be the highlight of anyone's day, is the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center where exhibits include an interactive map of the Florida Keys, a replica of the Aquarius underwater laboratory, a "living reef" and replicas of South Florida habitats such as mangroves, complete with sound effects. A beautifully filmed orientation movie emphasizes the importance of the reefs, the hammock, and the interaction of the species that inhabit the delicate eco-system. For families, it's a wonderful opportunity to learn together and it's just a short distance from Truman Dock. We were told it offers a triple benefit to visitors--there's air conditioning, no admission charge, and plentiful parking. Eventually a promenade along the waterfront will make it easier to reach on foot, although it's certainly within walking distance even today.

Leaving Key West behind at 2pm, we're looking forward to formal night, which means a splendid dinner followed by one of Carnival's lavish production shows--Ticket to Ride. Then, perhaps a bit of jazz and a nightcap in the Habana Bar or late-night fun around the piano in... where else? the Piano Bar. The night is young, but we're not, so we'll save some energy for Cozumel tomorrow.