Planning a visit to the unique Dry Tortugas National Park in Florida? While it takes a bit of planning to get there, it’s definitely worth visiting!
It’s home to the stunning Fort Jefferson, crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, and some of the most pristine coral reefs in North America. Whether you’re a history buff eager to explore the fort’s Civil War-era past, a snorkeler looking to discover vibrant underwater ecosystems, or simply seeking an off-the-grid escape, Dry Tortugas promises an unforgettable National Park experience!
In this blog, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this incredible national park. From how to get there, what to do, and tips for visiting!
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How to Get to Dry Tortugas National Park in Florida
Dry Tortugas National Park is located about 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. This National Park is a remote paradise, accessible only by boat or seaplane. Since it’s not the easiest to get to, you need to book your tour in advance since they do book up in peak season!
By Ferry
The most budget-friendly and popular way to get to Dry Tortugas is by taking the Yankee Freedom Dry Tortugas Ferry day trip tour. The ferry ride is about a 2-hour journey from Key West to Fort Jefferson. It’s a full-day adventure – boarding in Key West at 7:30 am and arriving back at the ferry port around 5:15 pm. Since there are no services on the island, so they do include lunch onboard the ferry.
Cost: starting at $235 per adult and $180 per child (4-16 years old)
While most people choose the day trip, they do offer overnight camping trips. This would be such a fun option for people seeking a more unique and extended adventure on Dry Tortugas!
By Seaplane
The fastest and most scenic way to get to Dry Tortugas is by a 40-minute seaplane ride with Key West Seaplane Adventures. Depending on if you choose the full-day or half-day excursion, you’ll have between 2.5 hours to 6.5 hours to explore the island. They do not provide any snacks or meals throughout the tour, so you need to plan accordingly.
Cost (Half-Day Excursion): $494.00 per adult and $395.20 per child (12 & under)
Cost (Full-Day Excursion): $868.00 per adult and $694.20 per child (12 & under)
Another way to get to Dry Tortugas is by private boat. Of course, a lot of people who want to visit don’t own their own boat, so we don’t go into detail about that option!
Things to Do in Dry Tortugas National Park
Walking around Fort Jefferson
Fort Jefferson was built in the mid-1800s to protect the Gulf of Mexico’s shipping routes. Though never fully completed, it served as a military outpost and a prison during the Civil War. One of it’s most famous prisoners was Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was convicted for his role in aiding John Wilkes Booth after President Lincoln’s assassination. Despite its strategic importance, the fort was eventually abandoned due to the harsh conditions and the challenges of maintaining it. Today, it stands as a historic landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into its fascinating past amidst the stunning beauty of Dry Tortugas National Park.
As you stroll along its brick corridors and climb to the top for panoramic ocean views, you’ll discover old cannons, arched hallways, and even remnants of soldiers’ quarters. The fort’s moat and thick walls create a striking contrast against the turquoise waters surrounding it. Be careful when you are walking around because there are no guard rails to keep you from falling off the edge!
Note: If you book the Yankee Freedom Ferry, they offer a fully narrated 45-minute tour of the fort upon arrival. We’d recommend listening to that before exploring on your own to give you more context for what you are exploring!
Go Snorkeling
Dry Tortugas National Park is situated at the southwest corner of the Florida Keys reef system, the world’s third-largest reef system, which makes it an incredible place to go snorkeling! The park’s shallow, turquoise waters are home to a vibrant array of marine life, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional nurse shark. In addition to the coral reefs, there are a few shipwrecks to explore!
Fort Jefferson has a few different areas where you can snorkel around the island, including the moat wall. On the day of your visit, just ask a Park Ranger about the best area to snorkel since the conditions change daily!
Note: If you book the Yankee Freedom Ferry, they do include snorkeling equipment so you don’t need to bring your own!
Go Kayaking around Fort Jefferson
Kayaking is a great way to explore Dry Tortugas National Park! Again, this is another excursion you’ll need to plan in advance. They do not offer kayak rentals on the island, but you can bring your own kayak (or rent from another company on the mainland). But the Yankee Freedom Ferry does provide transportation for kayaks on board!
Note: Per the NPS guidelines, a boating permit is required for all vessels in the park, including kayaks. And a PFD is required. You can read more details and guidelines on the NPS website.
Watch our adventures in Dry Tortugas in our video below!
Spend a night Camping
Camping on Dry Tortugas National Park is a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s a true off-the-grid adventure for those seeking a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience in a remote, tropical paradise! The park’s primitive campground, located just outside the walls of Fort Jefferson, provides a peaceful escape under the stars, with only the sounds of ocean waves and seabirds filling the air.
Keep in mind that this is primitive camping, there are no modern amenities! Campers must bring all their supplies, including food, water, and camping gear. But nothing beats waking up to breathtaking sunrises over the ocean, having early access to snorkeling spots before the day visitors arrive, and enjoying the island’s beauty in solitude.
Learn more about camping trips on Dry Tortugas on the Yankee Freedom website here!
What to Bring for Visiting Dry Tortugas National Park
As we’ve mentioned a few times, Dry Tortugas is a remote island with limited resources. So it’s best to be prepared for your day exploring! Below are some of the essentials to pack when visiting Dry Tortugas National Park:
- Dry bag or Waterproof backpack
- Towel
- Swimsuit
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito Repellent
- Sunglasses
- Change of clothes
- Sturdy pair of walking shoes
- Camera – here’s a link to our favorite camera gear!
- Hat
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