Yankee Freedom Dry Tortugas Ferry
- Catamaran Built for 250 Passengers but Only Carries 150
- Biggest Most Stable Transportation to the Fort
- Breakfast, Lunch, Snorkel Gear, and Tour of Fort Included
- Swim From the Beach to the Reef!
Departing daily from Key West at 8 a.m., the Yankee Freedom III, is the only vessel that heads out to the fantastic Dry Tortugas National Park. Included in your trip is snorkeling gear and equipment, breakfast, a buffet-style lunch, and a guided tour of historic Fort Jefferson.
The Dry Tortugas National Park features some of the most pristine and untouched nature in the United States. You are likely to see all kinds of tropical reef fish, turtles, stingrays, angelfish, and one of the largest varieties of seabirds in the country. The waters of the Tortugas are some of the clearest around, which makes spotting the sea life much easier. On the first half of your trip, you will be able to enjoy the fantastic snorkeling that can be done out on the islands. Unlike other snorkeling in Key West, you can actually snorkel right off the sandy beach. At the Dry Tortugas, the coral reef gardens are just feet away from the shore! You can literally swim to them and start your snorkeling.
The trip also features an informative guided tour of Fort Jefferson, the massive brick structure located on Garden Key. The fort was never actually used (since by the time construction was finished, military equipment had advanced, making the set-up virtually obsolete), but it was used for various reasons throughout the decades, including a stint as a military prison during the Civil War.
The Yankee Freedom III will provide you with a comfortable ride, complete with a galley and bar for purchase of food and drinks on the return trip. The upper deck is open to the sea air and sights and sounds of marine life. There is spacious shaded and unshaded sundeck seating with areas to stretch out and enjoy the sunshine and the view.
What is the weather cancellation policy?
If the activity must be cancelled due to bad weather, and you cannot reschedule, you will be issued a full refund.
Where is the departure point for this tour?
Check-in instructions will be included in your activity confirmation email.
Where can I park?
Parking is available in the City Parking Garage on Grinnell Street, across the corner from the Ferry Terminal. The garage provides shaded parking for $18/day. There is no free parking available in Key West.
Are vehicles allowed on the Ferry?
No vehicles are allowed, we only transport people.
How much time do we spend at Fort Jefferson?
About 4 - 5 hours.
What time will we arrive back into Key West?
Return time to Key West is between 5:00 pm & 5:30 pm.
Can we bring a small cooler?
You are allowed to bring a small cooler with beverages to take to the beach, however alcoholic beverages are not allowed. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased on board the Yankee Freedom III
Will I get seasick during the boat ride?
Most passengers will not get sick, however if you are prone to motion sickness we recommend that you purchase medication that can relieve motion sickness.
Are there restaurants or gift shops at Fort Jefferson?
Unfortunately there are no restaurants at the Dry Tortugas, however there is a visitor center and a book store. Breakfast and Lunch is provided for you on this trip. You can purchase additional snacks and food items at the galley on board the ferry.
Are ID’s or passports necessary before boarding?
Passports are not necessary to board the boat, however all adults must show a valid photo id at check in.
What is provided for lunch?
Our lunch is a picnic-style lunch with sandwich bread, deli meats, cheeses and toppings to make your own sandwich. We also provide various sides such as potato salad and pasta salad.
Is the ferry wheel chair accessible?
We can accommodate people confined to a wheelchair. We ask that people in wheelchairs check in earlier than other passengers (at about 6:45AM) in order for us to make the proper accommodations. At the national park, much, but not all, of the areas are wheelchair accessible/
It is your responsibility to make sure you are aware of and understand all restrictions pertaining to this tour before booking online or over the phone. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are medically qualified and within any limits listed below in order to participate in this activity. No refunds will be given to those who reserve a spot and can not participate due to the restrictions listed below. For more information please read our cancellation policy and terms and conditions page or call our staff with any questions regarding your ability to participate.
Restrictions
The last day of each month will not be operational for our monthy maintenance, to ensure smooth sailing.
PLEASE NOTE: There are many dates that are already sold out during this season. Spaces for the Yankee Freedom ferry out to the Dry Tortugas are highly limited, especially during busier times of the year. We strongly encourage you to call to check availability before booking.
*Price Match not valid on this tour
