If you've been planning your trip to Key West, no doubt you've included Dry Tortugas National Park as a "must see" for your vacation. But, as one of the most remote national parks, you may be wondering, "How can I get there?" Finding a Dry Tortugas ferry is as simple as reading on.
Why A Dry Tortugas Ferry?
Approximately 70 miles west of Key West, the Dry Tortugas National Park, made up of seven small islands is accessible only by boat. The park is closed to personal watercraft, but you have your choice of Dry Tortugas ferry options to make your trip to the islands as pleasurable as your visit to the park.
How Do I Find A Dry Tortugas Ferry?
You're in the right place! Here at Best on Key West.com, not only will you find details about your Dry Tortugas ferry options, but can also make reservations and be sure you'll get the best price around. Already on the island? Talk with your Key West inn staff or concierge about booking a space on one of the ferries that leaves Key West daily for the national park.
What Is Included With A Dry Tortugas Ferry Reservation?
Hop aboard the Sunny Days Fast Cat II or the Yankee Freedom. Each of these Dry Tortugas ferryboats offers a pleasant trip to the park.
The Sunny Days Fast Cat II is a smooth, fast ride to the Dry Tortugas. Ferry ride, along with breakfast, lunch, snorkel gear, and a tour of the historic Fort Jefferson are included in your rate. Key West snorkeling is at its best in the shallow waters surrounding Dry Tortugas National Park.
Aboard the Yankee Freedom, you'll enjoy your breakfast and a buffet lunch. There is also a galley where you can purchase additional snacks for your return to Key West. Snorkel gear is provided along with a guided tour of the fort. The Yankee Freedom also boasts spacious sun decks for enjoying the view.
There is a $5 entry fee for visiting the Dry Tortugas National Park, which is not included.
Both Dry Tortugas ferryboats depart Key West at 8AM and return to the United States most southern city at approximately 5:30PM. It's a whole day's adventure -- but a day well spent!
Visiting Dry Tortugas National Park
Once you arrive at the national park, prepared to be dazzled by the unadulterated beauty of this subtropical ecosystem. Protected for visitors to enjoy, you are asked to respect the natural environment and take in all it has to offer. The park is a bird sanctuary with nearly 300 species of birds documented. Vibrantly colored fish, sea turtles, and other spectacular sea life inhabit the shallow waters and the deeper sea off the coast of the Dry Tortugas. Ferry passengers will have the opportunity to enjoy the white sandy beaches and swim out to the largest living coral reef in U.S. waters. Fort Jefferson offers a peek into our national history, complete with tales of pirates and conspiracy. The National Park truly has something for everyone.
If your trip to Key West leaves you longing for more water adventures, you may want to look into scuba diving in the Bahamas or fishing in Cabo San Lucas -- two more great vacation options.
