If you’re a national park chaser like me, Dry Tortugas is bound to be on your list! Incredible snorkeling, influential military history and ocean beauty all congregate to meet on the sands of Dry Tortugas. In past centuries, this island was a common stopping point for pirates and merchant ships. The word “tortuga” (“turtle” in Spanish) noted the nesting turtles in the area (which the seaman would eat). Later, the word “dry” was added to many nautical maps to indicate a lack of fresh water on the island.
What we now know as Dry Tortugas is a 2.5-hour boat ride away from Key West. If you plan to visit, you’ll want to be sure to book your Yankee Freedom (ferry to the island) or seaplane reservations as far ahead as you can. You can book your ferry reservations here—and seriously plan to book this at least 6 months out from your travel date and even further out if you plan on camping on the island.
If you plan to arrive at the park via the Yankee Freedom, be sure to clearly read all that your reservation includes. We were treated to a snack, breakfast, lunch, snorkel equipment, and warm showers! There was also a bar & snack area as well as some small gift items available to purchase. Pretty great right?
We had a great time on board the Yankee Freedom. The crew was funny and entertaining and the history and details they provided about the park and native animals were incredible. Seriously, listening to our guide Noah rattle off dates and details had my jaw hitting the floor. At the end of our journey, they even had a drawing for a free return trip on the Yankee Freedom—Yep! The crew made it a fun, memorable day.
Once you land on the island, you’ll be given the option to take either a 20 min. or 60 min. tour of Fort Jefferson. At the very least take the 20 min. tour so you can gain a true appreciation for the history and memorable events that happened within its brick walls.
If you decide to meander throughout the fort by yourself, be sure to find Dr. Samuel Mudd’s cell (right below the American flag & above the entrance gate). Who is Samuel Mudd and why is he important? Great question! Dr. Samuel Mudd was the physician that set John Wilkes Booth’s leg after he shot President Abraham Lincoln. Mudd was then arrested as a conspirator and sent to Dry Tortugas to serve out his prison sentence. He was later pardoned by President Andrew Johnson–visit his cell to find out why.
I would also recommend seeking out the “Hot-Shot Furnace” (where they would heat cannonballs in hopes of lighting enemy warships on fire) and heading up to the third level for an incredible undisturbed view of the ocean. You’ll find your day trip will wind down quickly with all the things there are to see.
Outside the walls of Fort Jefferson, visit both the North and South beaches. Your boat guides will inform you of which beach is preferable to visit that day. If you plan to venture into the water for a swim, make sure to grab that complimentary snorkel gear from the Yankee Freedom! This reef is known as a fantastic spot to see a wide variety of fish. While snorkeling, we saw a few barracuda, yellowtail snapper and gray angelfish!
If swimming and snorkeling don’t appeal to you, take a walk along the moat wall. From above you can often spot fish, sharks, and other wildlife. Unfortunately, the moat wall doesn’t fully surround the fort walls anymore (parts of it are in disrepair), but if you follow it to the back of Fort Jefferson, you will still be able to view the Loggerhead Lighthouse.
All in all, I know you’ll board the ferry home wishing you would’ve had more time exploring this beautiful place! Get out there and enjoy the sunshine & sea!
If you plan to spend a few days exploring Key West, head to my blog post here for some great details on what to see and where to eat!
The Details You Need To Know:
- Book your Yankee Freedom or seaplane tickets as far out as you can! –This is a popular park but due to its limited accessibility you’ll need to do some planning ahead of time!
- Don’t bring extra stuff: The Yankee Freedom offers snorkeling equipment & food is included in your reservation! Unless you have specific needs, leave that stuff in Key West.
- There are no bathrooms in Fort Jefferson: The only bathrooms that will be available to you will be the ones onboard The Yankee Freedom. Plan accordingly.