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The company offers half day trip excursions for $361 per person and $288.80 for kids ages 12 and under. Tips for the United States Virgin Islands, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Basic Information, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Frequently Asked Questions, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Weather, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Wildlife Viewing, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Sea Turtles, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Things To Do, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Goods & Services, Dry Tortugas Info: The Turtles of The Dry Tortugas, Yankee Freedom II: Dry Tortugas National Park Ferry, Key West Seaplane Adventures: Seaplane Tours of Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson, Information on Dry Tortugas National Park in Key West, Florida, Outdoor Activities in Isle of Palms, South Carolina, Privacy Notice/Your California Privacy Rights. tortugas Wildlife activity is determined by the weather, among many other factors, which makes timing all the more crucial if wildlife viewing or photography is your main reason for visiting. tortugas formations This unstable weather can make it difficult to get to Dry Tortugas, but winter is a good time to visit if your main goal is to beat the crowds. The last place for snorkeling at Dry Tortugas is along the moat wall. Entrance Fee: $15 per person, valid for 7 days. Dry Tortugas National Park is also a special conservation area for a variety of wildlife, including nurse sharks and the Magnificent Frigate bird. Fees, which are $190 per person and $135 for kids (ages 4-16), include admission to the park, breakfast and lunch on the boat, the use of complimentary snorkel equipment, and a 45-minute tour of the fort led by one of the tour guides. Just make sure you follow the rules and leave this unique location exactly how you found it. If youre visiting in the summer months, make sure to pack a rain poncho or rain jacket, as afternoon showers operate like clockwork in Florida during the summer. If you decide you want to go fishing, make sure you familiarize yourself with all the rules and restricted areas. The seaplane is the quickest way to get to Dry Tortugas National Park and Key West Seaplane Adventures is the only company that flies to Dry Tortugas National Park. For history buffs, the real attraction is Fort Jefferson, which was originally built as a military fortification and was later also used as a prison for Union deserters. tortugas cruising FULL DAY BY SEAPLANE: With a full day by seaplane, you now have 6.5 hours in the Dry Tortugas. We are booked to go via ferry in June, and while much may change between now and then, I was wondering how strict they were about mask wearing once you're off the boat? Of the two seasons, summer is certainly the preferred time to visit Dry Tortugas, though a strong case could be made that the brief spring season late April to early June is the best time to experience the islands. You can learn more about the islands and different areas of the park from one of the park rangers at the visitor center. tortugas nps diver biomes snorkeling drto Garden Key has a designated area for snorkeling thats great for beginners, as well as all skill levels. One of the biggest attractions at Dry Tortugas National Park is its wildlife, from the fish that populate its reefs to the sea turtles that nest on its shores.

The ranger-led tour lasts more than an hour, so if you're doing just the day trip you may not want to do it. Coral, tropical fish, and sea turtles can all be seen here. In the wintertime, the average temperature is in the mid sixties. Our kids were 6 and 9 when we did the ferry and it was a breeze for one and a struggle for Captain Tummy Troubles. Richard Corrigan has been a full-time freelance writer since 2009, and has always considered himself lucky to be able to combine his passion for travel with his love of writing.

There are three main snorkeling areas to explore: the north and south swim beaches, and the moat wall. Dry Tortugas National Park appears in our. Several species of sea turtles nest on the beaches of Dry Tortugas between May and October, and these majestic creatures are commonly seen throughout this range. that water! tortugas dry The winter times are milder in temperature and drier in general. Note: given the distance to Loggerhead Key, if you want to paddle out to it, you must do that during a camping trip to Dry Tortugas, as it will eat more than half the day and its not possible on a standard trip to the islands. Dry Tortugas National Park is an underrated gem in the national park system. Its close to the camping area at Dry Tortugas. With crystal clear water, no waves, and great views of Fort Jefferson, this is a great place to go swimming. Here are several sample itineraries, depending on the amount of time you have and which mode of transportation you choose. While you could just show up at the Dry Tortugas ferry in Key West and hope for a great day, its best to be prepared, both for the long boat ride and for your time at Fort Jefferson and Garden Key. Florida has several National Parks, and each is very unique. In your opinion, is traveling via the ferry better or is the sea plane better? Well help you get it planned though. There is no internet or cellphone service on the islands, nor are there pay phones, trashcans or boat fuel. There are two ways to get to the Dry Tortugas: by seaplane and by boat. Arrive at the terminal by 7:00 am to get checked in for the ferry, as boarding begins at 7:30 am. The ferry has space to roam around and as long as people don't get seasick and/or the seas are calm, it's not a bad journey at all. We are traveling with a 3 and 5 year old. In fact, our prices are up to 56% Cheaper*, Dry Tortugas National Park is the #1 Dry Tortugas Concierge in Key West. Bush Key sits right next to Garden Key and, if it is open, walking around this small island is one of the best things to do on a visit to the Dry Tortugas. That said, dont expect to see turtle nests or hatchling turtles. Once on the island, visitors will have about five hours to explore the island, swim, and even snorkel. Annual Visitors: 84,000 in 2021, making it the 9th least visited park this year. Explore Historic Fort Jefferson. Lots actually! If you are camping, then definitely do it. The company also offers a full day trip to Dry Tortugas, which give visitors at least six and half hours of time on the island. If youve done the road trip through the Florida Keys and then done the boat all the way out here, beach time and exploring underwater is going to be so refreshing and wonderful! However, in order to transport a gas grill to the park, youll have to arrive on a personal vessel. The highlight of exploring Fort Jefferson is either the walk around the top of the fort wall or the walk on the moat wall. fishing trips exciting packages various above links please suggested packing trip list If you dont have all day to spend at Dry Tortugas and dont mind spending a little money, Key West Seaplane Adventure Chartercan get you down to the national park in about 40 minutes, each way. Dry Tortugas National Park appears in our Best US National Parks Month-By-Month series as a great park to visit in January, April, and December. Read More: How To Camp In The Rain And Not Be Miserable. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies.

Unfortunately, these are also the busiest months down in Key West. The Dry Tortugas are the last group of islands of the Florida Keys, sitting 70 miles west of Key West. This is the primary area visitors explore. florida keys tortugas dry park key snorkeling spots travel national west loggerhead snorkeled vacation camping state The fort is fascinating and beautiful, and is a wonderful place to explore with kids. I am working on a trip though to go right here! Visit Fort Jefferson first, then go snorkeling and swimming. Snorkeling at South Beach is the most common, as it has the smoothest water. Earth Trekkers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to Amazon.com. Thus, the best time to come out to the Dry Tortugas is probably from February through April. If budget allows, the Dry Tortugas seaplane option is much faster and allows for more time out at the National Park if you do the full day trip.

Dry Tortugas is definitely in a category of its own when it comes to National Parks. After the Civil War, the fort continued to be a port and then it was used for refueling ships that used coal. While ideal conditions will make for a smooth trip out to For Jefferson, medium to large swells can occur making for a very nauseating trip. Those failing to check-in and getting a permit run the risk of being given a citation. If you are on your own exploring, you're okay without your mask. Dont forget to turn it in and get your badge! The primary swimming beaches are South and North Beaches, as noted as great snorkeling spots. October through January is one of the best times to visit Dry Tortugas National Park, when Bush Key is open. The most famous prisoner at the fort was Dr. Samuel Mudd, the physician who set John Wilkes Booths broken leg after he shot Abraham Lincoln. And kids who complete their Junior Ranger program earn a special dessert for the ride back (see the Yankee Freedom ferry crew for the treat). parasailing Its a struggle to leave the many conch shells on the sand, but its the rule. Then spend the rest of your time snorkeling, swimming, and walking around Bush Key. Advanced reservations are highly recommended regardless of whether youre traveling via ferry or seaplane, as spots fill up months in advance. We parked ourselves watching barracuda dart in and out of a large hole in the wall while butterfly fish swam all around us. You can tour the fort on your own or take a ranger guided tour. You cannot snorkel along Bush Key, which is attached to Garden Key (the main island) or the adjacent Long Key. You will not be permitted to start a fire at the campsite. Walking around this key was one of our favorite experiences in the park. Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the least visited park in the National Park Service, so very few people actually have Junior Ranger badges from Fort Jefferson. The climate is subtropical with hot and humid summers and frequent afternoon showers. The half day trip is about 4 hours, with two and a half hours at the park. Dry Tortugas National Park is more than 90 percent water, but at its heart lies a tiny cluster of islands, the Dry Tortugas, at the tail end of the Florida Keys. The islands were later renamed the Dry Tortugas to let sailors know that there was no fresh water to be found here. I think of hiking in Zion National Park or exploring the many geysers at Yellowstone, which present visitors with clear activities and a plan for what to do. tortugas dry Whether youre fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, or kayaking, the crystal blue waters surrounding the islands are pristine and thriving with underwater wildlife. Be prepared for a lot of sun exposure, as the only shade is within Fort Jefferson and its brick corridors. It's always smart to bring sunscreen, even if you are coming in the cooler winter months. Dry Tortugas offers excellent bird-watching as well, especially in spring, as many species stop over on their annual migration. While the snorkeling from the beaches on Garden Key is very good, there are other parts of Dry Tortugas National Park where you can explore deeper underwater. Loggerhead Key and the reef are both exceptional locations, but these can only be reached via private boat tour. There is a beautiful beach for swimming with views of the Loggerhead Key lighthouse, but most of the island is protected. tortugas Im curious whats best if you want to have time to snorkel and explore. Besides that, this simple Dry Tortugas packing list should ensure a wonderful visit: Note: this is NOT a packing list for camping at Dry Tortugas National Park. These are the best things to do at Fort Jefferson: Its easy to get sucked into the wonder of Fort Jefferson and its history, so if you plan on snorkeling and relaxing, be sure to keep an eye on the time. Dry Tortugas National Park is incredible for many reasons, and one of coolest things to do at Dry Tortugas is snorkeling around the main attraction, Fort Jefferson. Like in Florida, there are really only two weather seasons: winter and summer. Note: This page contains affiliate links. Make reservations for a Dry Tortugas Tour by booking online or contact us at (866) 575-5068. Others tell stories of rough waves and countess people vomiting off the back of the boat. tortugas westend61 These two beaches offer plenty of space to spread out (you wont have much gear) and enjoy the view. The full day gives you about 6 and a half hours snorkeling and exploring the National Park. Beyond the pristine beaches and crystal clear waters, the iconic Fort Jefferson is the other attraction at Dry Tortugas National Park. The last thing you want to do is get a citation; youll be able to get the latest information on restrictions on the parks official site. Youll first have to check in at Fort Jefferson to get a free permit and be provided with information on where you may drop anchor and fish. We'll Price Match It. Pristine, thats the only word for it. In the summertime, it is not uncommon for the temperature out on the Dry Tortugas to exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Were happy to help! And if you decide to snorkel outside the designated area, you must display an approved dive flag. Even though the ferry does sell several items onboard, for example, food and drinks, T-shirts, sunscreen, towels, and hats, they dont have an endless supply. And no, theres no Key Lime Pie available at Fort Jefferson but I supposed you could make your own key lime pie to bring. Youll want to make sure you pack a change of clothes if youll be getting in the water, sunscreen, a towel, snorkel equipment, sunglasses, a camera, and any special snacks. Tip: be sure to get your National Park Passport stamp at the Dry Tortugas National Park Visitor Center inside Fort Jefferson. Remember that youre in a National Park, so removal of natural objects and harassing wildlife is not permitted. Youll catch the ferry very near the Marker Key West Resort and the Waterfront Brewery. and its doable either while youre exploring Fort Jefferson or if you want to sit at a picnic table before you leave Garden Key. Starting at the north end of South Beach and curving around towards North Beach, the moat wall is fascinating to get up close to. The best time to visit is during the summer time, which runs from May to October. tortugas Tip: anti-nausea medicines are helpful for some people, but for others they can make them so tired that its difficult to move past. We did the self guided tour because we wanted plenty of time snorkeling and such. Found a better price online? Garden Key, which is the arrival point for the boats and the seaplanes, is also home to Fort Jefferson. scuba usgs ilsa For this reason, our charters that head out to the Dry Tortugas tend to be completely filled up during these months, making it more difficult to be able to get out to the Dry Tortugas during your visit. Book passage to Dry Tortugas National Park here! charters tortugas If youre lucky, youll have clear skies which are perfect for stargazing. (see the Fort Jefferson / Dry Tortugas map below). There are a few ways visitors can get to Dry Tortugas on privately owned boats, the Yankee Freedom ferry, or a seaplane. see our full Sun Protection article for suggestions, Our friend and trusted travel planner Jenn can help, Students 17+, Active Military, Senior 62+, Climb to the top of the wall and walk the perimeter, Enjoy a picnic lunch on the top of the fort, Get artsy with your photography, photographing the architecture and windows to the sea, Bird watch: magnificent frigate birds, osprey, cormorants, masked boobies and terns, Walk the moat wall it circles all of Fort Jefferson, but there is a small gap you cannot pass on the west side, Spend a few minutes at the Visitor Center watching the video and talking to the rangers, Ferry Departure 8:00 am / Return to Key West 5:30 pm, Seating on the ferry is indoors or out, lower or upper decks, During COVID pandemic, masks are required at all times onboard, Time at Fort Jefferson / Dry Tortugas NP is approximately 5 hours, There are no bathrooms for you to use on the island, must return to boat, Underwater camera / waterproof phone case, Snorkel gear (if you dont want to use whats provided). I seem to be in Florida at least once or twice a year but never get down to the Keyes. Our friend and trusted travel planner Jenn can help! We were told that flights are seldom cancelled during this time due to weather. Ultimately, chances are you are getting to Dry Tortugas on the ferry or seaplane, so lets talk about that. tortugas The water temperature drops below 77 degrees Fahrenheit from December to April. The hurricane season runs from May through October. It should be a bucket list must, especially for those who love exploring the ocean and wildlife. Bush Key is open from October through January (the remainder of the year it is closed because it is a bird nesting site) but it is the most beautiful walk in the Dry Tortugas. Vegetation has taken over much of the interior of Fort Jefferson, and with that comes wildlife, particularly birds. Once you're off the boat, because it's technically Key West, you do need to keep wearing your mask if you're around people or inside at Fort Jefferson. Known for being home to Fort Jefferson, a former military fortification with a moat wall, it was used as a prison during the Civil War, the islands also serve as a nature preserve for various wildlife. Once youre there and settled, youll enjoy one of the most peaceful nights ever. Within the Visitor Center, there are some souvenirs available for purchase (cash only), but the primary function of it is for Park Rangers to answer questions and help visitors enjoy their time at Fort Jefferson. The temperatures in the Dry Tortugas range from the mid-50s (as a low during the coldest months in winter time) to the mid-80s. There are only two ways youll be able to transport your gear to the island, either through the ferry or a private boat. The Dry Tortugas are home to some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Florida. Go for a Swim. The summer months bring it to above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. tortugas You can also camp at Garden Key, but come very well prepared. seaplane tortugas dry There are several dive companies in the Florida Keys that can work with you to create a Dry Tortugas diving plan. Should there be no storms on the horizon, plan for sunny weather with a consistent breeze. The Junior Ranger packet is not a crazy one (you should see the Yellowstone NP packet!) There are two ways to get to the Dry Tortugas: Best US National Parks Month-By-Month series. The Yankee Freedom III ferry is the only boat that operates day trips down to Garden Key. Wildlife Viewing. Our recommendation is to book your spaceswell in advance if you plan on coming during these months. snorkeling tortugas Also attached to South Beach is an outcropping of the old coal docks, which are now teeming with undersea life. Since it is so remote, there is a good chance that you will have it all to yourself. To get here, you will kayak 3 miles one-way from Garden Key. Just hoping when we're outdoors and mostly away from others, they won't expect us to be masked thank you!!! Flying out of Key West, the travel time is about 40 minutes. Remember, you can only look and not touch as the coral and shells are protected by law. Youll definitely see a variety of tropical fish and perhaps nurse sharks. Setting realistic expectations of your day and what youll encounter or need will ensure a fun trip. This applies to any sort of boat, whether youre mooring or if you have brought your own kayak (this is a bucket list Florida Keys kayaking spot!). For the ultimate adventure in Dry Tortugas National Park, visit Loggerhead Key. dry tortugas snorkeling national park keys fort florida paradise visitflorida credit found When the weather is nice, its typically 70s and 80s, so not too bad at all. Inside Fort Jefferson, youll find long corridors or archways, spiral staircases in the dark, and overgrown ramparts. Explore Fort Jefferson first and then go for a stroll around Bush Key and visit one or two snorkeling spots. tortugas dry trip national park dengler taken resources john service If youre not prone to motion sickness, youll probably be fine. Hurricane Season is all summer (June November) so keep an eye on reports and hurricane tracking. We were staying at the Laureate Key West hotel when we first did the Dry Tortugas ferry, so we had to park in the public lot. The seaplane is a huge expense for a family, and while it gives amazing views and is lots of fun, the ferry gets my vote. Dry Tortugas is accessible only by water, making it one of Americas most remote national parks. They do offer dramamine for purchase on board, but if you have had success with the small anti-nausea patches, come prepared with them. Walking the trail along the top of the fort was the highlight for us. Need help booking travel? Concessions and services on the islands are extremely limited, and visitors are expected to bring everything they need, including food and water, for the duration of their visit. The only services available at Dry Tortugas National Park are the Visitor Center, changing rooms, and camping facilities. I didnt realize how far west from the keys it was. Thankfully simple breakfast and lunch are provided aboard the Yankee Freedom, but if you have special dietary needs or are a picky person, youll want to bring your own snacks. ), making the ride back go by faster. It is a full day experience and most of that will be spent on board the ferry. tortugas nps diver biomes snorkeling drto tortugas If you are lucky enough to have a boat or have a friend with a boat, and want to head down on your own, keep in mind that you cant just drop anchor anywhere you want. Since the seaplane and Yankee Freedom ferry leaves from Key West, most people visit the Dry Tortugas on a trip to Key West and the Florida Keys. Visitors can see parts of the fort where he was imprisoned. Hats and sunglasses are also a good idea. Both breakfast and lunch are provided as a part of your passage on the Yankee Freedom III, but youre welcome to bring your own food. The fact that the park is so isolated means that coral reef conditions are significantly better than anything you might see closer to the Florida coast. We visited Dry Tortugas National Park in early December. People throw around the phrase pristine beaches like its a volleyball, but the beaches of Dry Tortugas National Park are actually pristine. If youd like to snorkel the depths or go diving at Dry Tortugas you will need to arrange that outside of the basic ferry service. North Beach is also a great spot for snorkeling at Dry Tortugas National Park. Theres something for everyone looking to enjoy this remote chain of islands. Read More: Review: Faver-Dykes State Park in St. Augustine. We were just there in December and are planning another trip down in May. It is to the left of the ferry dock. It is also possible that the ferry may not run if the sea is very rough. Over the years many interesting artifacts and pieces of the wall have fallen into the sea, making the ocean floor complex with lots of good hiding places for fish. karibik wrack spiegel tauchreisen Plus, you will be here with just a handful of people, a great way to experience this park without a lot of people. Its a cancellation you cant miss! However, hurricanes can disrupt travel during this time. Heres the 2021 rates for reservations on the Dry Tortugas ferry (prices in USD not inclusive of taxes): The price of your ferry tickets for Dry Tortugas includes National Park admission. Your trip out to the Dry Tortugas will be unforgettable no matter when you come. Once at Dry Tortugas there are plenty of things to do, from exploring the fort to snorkeling or scuba diving, so pack your snorkeling gear! These islands serve as the nesting site for nearly 300 species of birds. First Timers Guide to Visiting Dry Tortugas National Park, How To Camp In The Rain And Not Be Miserable, Review: Faver-Dykes State Park in St. Augustine, 9 Best Short Hikes in Yellowstone National Park, Camping & Hiking Tips, Outdoors & Road Trips.

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