What is the driving distance between Key West FL and Tampa Bay FL?

There is no direct route between Key West, FL, and Tampa Bay, FL, by car, as a major portion of the journey would be over water. One would have to drive north to the mainland and then either take Interstate 75 or Interstate 95 to Tampa. The approximated distance by road is about 550 miles, and the driving time is estimated to be around 9 hours, not including traffic and rest stops.