January 21, 2025
EXPLORING DRY TORTUGAS NATIONAL PARK
A JOURNEY TO ONE OF THE MOST REMOTE NATIONAL PARKS IN THE UNITED STATES
Located 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the best places in the Florida Keys to experience pristine beauty, rich history, and vibrant marine life. Known for its remote location and historic Fort Jefferson, this hidden gem is an excellent place for adventurers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Enjoy this Guide to the Dry Tortugas and use it to make your visit the very best one.

HOW TO GET TO THE DRY TORTUGAS
GETTING THERE: BY FERRY, SEAPLANE, OR PRIVATE BOAT
As one of the most remote national parks in the United States, reaching the Dry Tortugas requires planning. The Yankee Freedom Ferry, a high-speed catamaran, is the best option for most visitors. Departing from the Key West Ferry Terminal, the ferry ride to Garden Key takes about 2.5 hours each way. Onboard, guests enjoy breakfast bagels, soft drinks, and light meals, making the journey both comfortable and scenic. Once you arrive to the island, the ferry provides complimentary snorkel gear, as well.



For a more exclusive experience, Key West Seaplane Adventures offers a 40-minute flight over the Gulf of Mexico. From above, you’ll spot loggerhead turtles, coral reefs, and even enemy ships wrecked in the shallow waters. If you have access to your own private boat, you’ll need to obtain boat permits from the National Park Service to explore this remote destination.
ARRIVING AT GARDEN KEY: THE CENTRAL FEATURE
The ferry docks at Garden Key, the largest island in the park and home to historic Fort Jefferson. This massive masonry fort, built in the 19th century, is the central feature of Dry Tortugas. The fort’s moat wall and fort walls were constructed to defend against enemy ships, though it never saw combat.






On a guided tour led by park rangers, I learned about the fort’s role during the Civil War, including its connection to President Abraham Lincoln and the imprisonment of Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was convicted for aiding John Wilkes Booth. The fort’s history also includes its use as a quarantine station during the yellow fever epidemic.






WHAT DOES THE DRY TORTUGAS OFFER?
SNORKELING AND MARINE LIFE
One of the best things to do in Dry Tortugas is snorkeling. The shallow waters around the park are teeming with tropical fish, loggerhead sea turtles, and thriving coral reefs. With complimentary snorkel gear provided by the ferry, I longed to explore the vibrant underwater world near the moat wall and Bush Key, but the cool weather and frigid water didn’t allow it on our first trip.
For avid divers, the park’s open water areas reveal even more wonders, including artificial wrecks and natural reefs. Bird watchers can head to Bush Key to spot sooty terns, which nest here seasonally.

RELAXATION AND PRACTICAL TIPS
The park offers picnic tables and an overflow area for visitors to enjoy a meal or relax in the shade. There’s no running water or fresh water available, so it’s essential to bring your own supplies. For those seeking a more immersive experience, camping on Garden Key is available on a first-served basis. Just be sure to plan carefully—this camping trip requires bringing all your essentials, including food and water.
After visiting, I want to return and camp on the island. It is such a beautiful location. I think that it would be spectacular to have the island to myself in the evening, explore and then wake up to the quiet and the blue water all around.





WHEN TO VISIT THE DRY TORTUGAS (AND TRAVEL TIPS)
The best time to visit Dry Tortugas is during the winter months, from November to April, when good weather and calm seas make for smoother travel. Avoid the hurricane season in the summer and fall, as rough seas can disrupt ferry schedules and seaplane flights.
If you’re prone to seasickness, bring medication for the ferry ride, as the return trip can occasionally encounter choppy waters. Purchasing ferry tickets in advance is highly recommended, as this popular destination often sells out.
It is recommended to take Dramamine before traveling to the island by ferry. Do not make the mistake that we made, though. We did not buy the anti-drowsy Dramamine. So, we slept the majority of the trip to and from the island.
REFLECTIONS ON A UNIQUE NATIONAL PARK EXPERIENCE
Visiting Dry Tortugas National Park felt like stepping into a different world. The park’s combination of historic Fort Jefferson, incredible sea life, and breathtaking tropical fish makes it one of the best places in North America for adventure and exploration. Whether arriving by ferry, sea plane, or own boat, this remote island is a great place to connect with nature and history, leaving you with memories to treasure for a lifetime.

WHAT TO WEAR TO THE DRY TORTUGAS
When visiting The Dry Tortugas, it’s essential to prioritize comfort, sun protection, and water-friendly clothing. Here’s what I recommend:
Clothing:
1. Lightweight Swimwear: Wear a swimsuit or swim trunks since you’ll likely snorkel or enjoy the water.
2. Quick-Dry Shorts and Tank/Top: Comfortable, moisture-wicking materials are ideal.
3. Rash Guard: Offers extra sun protection and is useful for snorkeling or swimming.
4. Light Cover-Up or Long-Sleeve Shirt: A breathable, UPF-rated shirt can protect your skin from the sun.
Footwear:
1. Water Shoes: Essential for snorkeling, wading, or walking on rocky areas.
2. Comfortable Sandals or Flip-Flops: Easy to slip on and off for the boat ride.
Accessories:
1. Wide-Brimmed Hat or Cap: To shield your face and neck from the sun.
2. Polarized Sunglasses: Helps reduce glare off the water.
3. Lightweight Backpack or Waterproof Bag: For carrying essentials like water, snacks, and a change of clothes.
Other Essentials:
1. Sunscreen (reef-safe): Protect your skin without harming the coral reefs.
2. Towel: Preferably a compact, quick-dry one.
3. Snorkeling Gear (if not renting): Mask, snorkel, and fins.
4. Change of Clothes: To stay comfortable on the ferry ride back.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR THE DRY TORTUGAS?
Useful items to bring along are:
- Packable beach blanket
- Beach towel
- Sunscreen
- Hat (wide brimmed)
- Long sleeves or Sweatshirt
- Phone in waterproof case
- Snacks
- Earbuds
- Camera
- Dry sack
- Lip balm
- Snorkel gear



If you would like to know more about visiting Key West, you can read my blog post on Your Vacation Guide to Exploring Key West.



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