Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin in Key West. All campsites on the Dry Tortugas are first-come, first-served with the exception of the large group site for 10-20 people. Day Cruises. Places to Go. Dry Tortugas can only be reached by ferry or seaplane out of Key West, or by private boat. Self guided or guided tours of Fort Jefferson are. , hoisted the men into the aircraft and transferred them to Key West International Airport in good health. Explore Fort Jefferson, once used as a prison during the Civil War. Dry Tortugas, the last seven in a long string of coral islands (keys) and sandbars that extend westward from Key West (Monroe county), at the tip of southern Florida, U. They offer seaplane tours to Dry Tortugas & Fort Jefferson – morning, afternoon, or full-day. Reef, Marine & Eco Tours. Choose the best airline for you by reading reviews and viewing hundreds of ticket rates for flights going to and from your destination. The park encompasses the caldera of Crater Lake, a remnant of Mount Mazama, a destroyed volcano, and the surrounding hills and forests. It is an ideal fun day for couples and groups of friends. This is a guest blog from James Horrox, which originally ran on is the third in a series of blogs about a report, New Life for the Ocean, which we co-authored with Frontier Group. The duration of this crossing is 2h 18 mins. INVESTMENT $1,950. The name alone — “Dry Turtles” in English — speaks to the duality of the place, pointing to the lack of naturally occurring fresh water on the park’s seven sandy keys. If you love nature, our snorkeling adventures will open up a whole new world to you, allowing you to see the bountiful life thriving underneath our clear aquamarine waters. The Tortugas were dry. To get there, you must either paddle over or have your own private boat. Getting to Dry Tortugas by Seaplane: Things to Know. Charter flights are also available. 667. Located some 70 miles west of Key. This massive influx of illegal immigrants caused the park to close to ensure the safety of visitors and staff and to provide the space necessary to. The rainiest months are June, July, August. A Coast Guard Air Station Miami MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew rescued three men, Sunday, after their vessel sank near Dry Tortugas National Park. The park’s resources are primarily underwater: within its authorized boundary of 64,700 acres, approximately 97 acresOn January 1, 2023, approximately 300 illegal aliens unlawfully entered Dry Tortugas National Park, located about 70 miles west of Key West, with an additional 45 illegal aliens entering Key West. Book Cheap Flights to Dry Tortugas National Park: Search and compare airfares on Tripadvisor to find the best flights for your trip to Dry Tortugas National Park. Traveling by sea plane is the quickest way to get to Dry Tortugas National Park. Vist the Dry Tortugas with Key West Seaplane Adventures. Jefferson and landing right on the azure Gulf waters in a custom-designed seaplane is breathtaking. Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas National park, which is only accessible by boat or plane. 4386. 1, 2013 Breitbart, "Feds try to close ocean because of shutdown. Hurricanes and shallow reef waters made the Florida Keys treacherous, and there are shipwrecks in the waters in and. Scott Shetler. Take a peek at Dry Tortugas National Park’s Fort Jefferson on Google Maps, then click on the satellite. Yes, Dry Tortugas National Park is open 24/7, but note that several islands are closed to the public. Established in 1902, Crater Lake is the fifth-oldest national park in the United States and the only national park in Oregon. Condé Nast recommends taking the Circle of Fire helicopter tour if you’re ready to drop some cash to get an aerial view of the area. Please see our website for full policy. In 1874, the American army left Fort Jefferson. There are seven small islands in the 100-square mile park, but it is mostly. S. The submerged portion of the platform extends to water depths of about 300 feet (90 meters). The page will go over how to find all four snorkel spots on the island, as well as where you can get there. It is expensive at $200 per adult. Your days may be filled with snorkeling, swimming, paddle boarding, or exploring the sights on land. Yes, Dry Tortugas is indeed located further south than Key West. Camping - Dry Tortugas National Park (U. These trips are roughly 4 hours long, with 2. m. Situated at the westernmost edge of the third largest coral reef system in the world, you are sure to discover some of the most pristine living coral and marine life found anywhere in the Florida Keys. Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote and captivating destination located in the Gulf of Mexico. Went on a trifecta visit to FL national parks in Nov 2022. Dry Tortugas National Park. S. m. Aug 4, 2012 - About 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, lies Dry Tortugas National Park which is world-renowned for picturesque blue sea waters, white sands, brightly colorful coral reefs, abundant marine life,. Helicopter Ride over the Florida Keys. Distilleries. It’s also not an. The Dry Tortugas National Park camping experience gets rave reviews. (Comprising 47,125 acres (19,071 ha) The monument was expanded in 1983 and re-designated as Dry Tortugas National Park on October 26, 1992 by an act of Congress. 5-hour tour of the islands. Two common nesting sea turtles in the Dry Tortugas are the green and loggerhead species. Yankee Freedom passengers have the option of joining a 45- to 60-minute guided tour of the fort led by one of our expert naturalists. Top Key West categories. Almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West lies the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. 00. S. Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote island park 113 km (70 mi) west of Key West between the Gulf of Mexico and the Straits of Florida. Generally, power, water and communications are non-existent or spotty in all areas. Explore a 19th century fort and snorkel picturesque blue waters with superlative coral reefs and marine life at this 100-square mile park that is mostly open water with seven small islands. 420 heavy guns. Our veteran captain and friendly crew will take you on a day trip to one of the most unique and spectacular national parks in the United States: The Dry Tortugas National Park. The half-day trip is slightly under four hours long and provides you with two and one-half hours to visit Fort Jefferson, the main attraction of Dry Tortugas National Park. and the boat returning to Key West at 5:30 p. While the spring brings about the best. From a site of shipwrecks, to a world-class lighthouse installation, to a cutting-edge marine research laboratory, to a goal for Cuban refugees, Loggerhead Key is a part of the crossroads that are the Dry Tortugas. Dry Tortugas National Park is located roughly 70 miles (113 kilometers) west of Key West, Florida. Inside Clothing-Optional Key West. Jefferson. Dry Tortugas National Park, national park located on the Dry Tortugas islands, southwestern Florida, U. The largest island in the Dry Tortugas, Loggerhead Key has seen many changes in its history. Dry Tortugas Seaplanes Need Help Booking? (866) 575-5068 Guaranteed Low Price No Booking Fees Hassle Free Reservations Click To Book Online Limited Spaces Available! For reservations call (866) 575-5068. History of Dry Tortugas Becoming a National Park. Other Ways to Get to Dry Tortugas National Park. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life, and the. Dry Tortugas National Park is an underrated park that is located in the Florida Keys. Reservations are required and can be made by using their website or by calling them directly at (305) 293-9300. S. The Dry Tortugas are the last group of islands of the Florida Keys, sitting 70 miles west of Key West. A U. Book Cheap Flights to Dry Tortugas National Park: Search and compare airfares on Tripadvisor to find the best flights for your trip to Dry Tortugas National Park. The only place that’s always open to visitors is Garden Key, except in case of seriously bad weather or other (unexpected) circumstances. Price: $0. Ask CarlSlye about Fort Jefferson. A U. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of its sparkling blue and. Re: Dry Tortugas. Day Trips via Ferry: Rates for a dry Tortugas day trip start at $200 for adults (17-61yrs) and $145 for children (ages 4-16 yrs) and Infants (0-3 yrs) are free. What that translates to is nearly 3 extra hours of time you get to spend snorkeling, taking pictures, touring the fort, etc. It’s also relatively shallow the whole 70 miles from Key West to the Dry Tortugas. You can explore the coral wonderlands in just three or four feet of water. 00 cancellation fee per passenger to cancel confirmed seat(s), if cancelling more than 48 hours prior to flight time. For more than 100 years, the sparkling turquoise waters of Dry Tortugas National Park in the Florida Keys have concealed a grim historical relic. Chart of the Dry Tortugas Background The story of Fort Jefferson lies with the maritime history of the Florida Straits and the excellent harborage afforded by the Dry Tortugas. No refund if cancelling a confirmed seat(s) less than 48 hours prior to flight time. The only ferry authorized to enter the water in Dry Tortugas National Park is the Yankee Freedom. The. The aviation branch of Big Cypress has been in operation since the establishment of the Preserve in 1974. The Seaplane Adventures might be the more scenic and quicker way to travel to the island, but it’s more expensive. Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson. Plan Your Boat Trip. Blackout dates & restrictions may apply. Truman Little White House. While the Yankee Freedom III ferry service is a popular and convenient option, holding 175 guests, there are other ways to reach the picturesque Dry Tortugas National Park. The helicopter crew arrived at the scene at approximately 2 p. Encompassed within a 100-acre national park, the islands are best known for Fort Jefferson, a 19th. 00:00. Tip #2: Take coral reef safe sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, beach towels and binoculars for the birdwatching. l unch buffet j e. Visit the Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson. The Dolphin helicopter crew arrived on scene at approximately 2 p. Dive in a Day. Sounds like the Caribbean, right? Wrong. This island is closed the rest of the year so that colonies of birds can nest in the area. m. You’ll hear captivating stories about the fort, its remarkable history and its surroundings. Loggerhead Key is the largest island of the Dry Tortugas. Do It All Tours. Seniors, students, active military and children have discounted tickets. For reservations book online or contact us at (866) 945-7917 for more information. ), Military helicopters, Key West (Fla. Jeff Carrier, Professor Emeritus at Albion College, Michigan. The seaplane to Dry Tortugas will cost you around $361 for a half-day excursion and $634 for a full-day excursion. Two navy helicopters fly over Fort Jefferson Keywords Environmental protection, Wildlife conservation, Dry Tortugas (Fla. Inspired by Dry Tortugas’s isolated charm, he spent three days and nights in the park filming the stars, and the result is a stunning time-lapse video that showcases the revolving beauty above. Irony hangs heavy in the air, just like the ever-present humidity, at Dry Tortugas. Our number one priority is to provide you with a safe tour, and we have completed over 20,000 flights Into Dry Tortugas National Park with a 100% safety record. Camping is $200 per adult. The old docks still have their wooden pilings underwater, but those areas have since seen an abundance of sponges,. Yankee Freedom passengers have the option of joining a 45- to 60-minute guided tour of the fort led by one of our expert naturalists. We mapped out our route to Dry Tortugas, double-checked the weather, and flipped through a couple of guidebooks so we would know what to expect in terms of anchoring options and rules for the National Park area. Thomas earlier this year. Plan to arrive to check in at the seaplane office more than 30. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): 189 miles to the ferry. We collect the $15. After an inspection, cleaning, and swapping out of our gear, we were ready to get west – towards the Dry Tortugas at last! We jammed some sailing tunes and got underway. It also is featured in a scene from the James Bond movie License to Kill. The Dry Tortugas National Park Ferry is called the Yankee Freedom iii. Whether you are a beginner or expert, you can enjoy. For locals, September is the best time to visit the. Bait boxes in the park contain rat poison: Dry Tortugas has an ongoing Rat Management Plan to prevent reintroduction of invasive rats. Fly to/from Marathon (MTH) and Islamorada from anywhere on the mainland!Land Tours. The ship was a part of a Spanish convey en route from La Habana, Cuba to Spain. Dry Tortugas National Park protects the southwest tip of South Florida's coral reef tract. Key West Seaplane Adventures, Key West, Florida. Nick Whitney, senior scientist at the New England Aquarium, joined FOX Weather to discuss a shark mating site in Dry Tortugas that may have been forever changed because of Hurricane Ian. Located off the coast of Florida on a small island, getting to Dry Tortugas National Park is very much a day trip, but it’s worth it. Dry Tortugas National Park is an American national park located about 68 miles (109 km) west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, in the United States. Dry Tortugas National Park comprises a cluster of seven small islands, but most of the 100-square-mile park is water — mesmerizingly blue, crystal-clear water worthy of your wildest tropical. Modeled after the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, it is divided into four distinct territories: Panhandle, West, Eastern, and South. Take the ferry from Fort Jefferson to Bight Ferry Terminal. The tour guides will provide guests with round-trip transportation, a 40-minute tour of Fort Jefferson, complimentary soft drinks, and snorkeling gear. seymikes®subonwhitebread t. Keywords Environmental protection, Wildlife conservation, Dry Tortugas (Fla. Spring and summer are the best seasons for bird-watching. Unless indicated below as “ (Obtained at Garden Key)” or “ (Obtained from Park Manager prior to arrival by calling 305-224-4222)”, all other permits must be obtained from the Superintendent, Everglades National. Inside the Harry S. Beyond its famous Fort Jefferson lies a world of unparalleled marine biodiversity, tales of shipwrecks, and sunsets that paint the horizon. This park protects seven small islands 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, and the ocean waters that surround them. More than a century and half later, in 1763, Britain and Spain were at war and the British captured the Spanish port of Havana, Cuba. Adrian Binns and Chris Brown are exceptional guides. To assist you in your planning, be sure to review the information on this page to learn more about camping at Dry Tortugas. Pilot gives a great tour, knows the island really well and gives a great commentary on the way helping you see turtles etc along the way. Unless indicated below as “ (Obtained at Garden Key)” or “ (Obtained from Park Manager prior to arrival by calling 305-224-4222)”, all other permits must be obtained from the Superintendent, Everglades National. You also need to bring $15 per person in cash to pay the national park fee. Plan Your Visit. 5 days) 2) Biscayne NP (0. Key West Seaplane Adventures. The word “dry” began to appear on early maps of the area to warn ships they could find no fresh water there. Despite the “dry” part of. ), Fort Jefferson, North and Central America, United States, Florida, Monroe, Dry Tortugas IslandsDry Tortugas is an expansive 100-square mile park and island, one among seven, strategically positioned off the coast of Key West. The service has been offered since 2010 when they were selected by the National Park Service. The ferry is the more economical way to the island, but it still has its pros and cons! *Prices from January 2021. The waters around the Dry Tortugas have been known as a haven for snapper and grouper for decades. You’ll hear captivating stories about the fort, its remarkable history and its surroundings. The Park is actually a 100 square miles but 98% of it is under water. urkeyandcheese roastbeefandcheese hamandcheese a. Water, about 25 meters deep or. Get great inclusions—snorkeling gear, breakfast and lunch, and a ferry ride. Inside Key West Biking. $50. Scott Shetler is a Seattle-based freelancer who has been featured in Travel + Leisure and the Washington Post. Air Force Academy. Dry Tortugas, is the National Park, less visited of the United States because it is located 70 miles from Key West in Florida and can be reached by ferry or seaplane. Dry Tortugas National Park. Phone Number: 800-634-0939. LIMIT FULL. Explore Dry Tortugas Underwater. The Dolphin helicopter crew arrived on scene at approximately 2 p. With our private seaplane flights, you won’t even get your feet wet. Archeologists have found the remains of a 19th century quarantine hospital and cemetery on a submerged island in Florida's Dry Tortugas National Park, according to park officials Monday, May 1. #BREAKING: A @USCG Air Station Miami MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew rescued three men, Sunday, after their vessel sank near Dry Tortugas National Park. Public ferries and seaplanes depart regularly to the park, and fishing and dive charters can be booked from the Florida Keys and Naples. Camping at Garden Key is an incredible experience with amazing star gazing, snorkeling, sunsets, and more! But you must be prepared to camp in this remote location. Friday 81 °F Saturday 76 °F Sunday 76 °F Monday 76 °F Board the Yankee Freedom for a ferry ride to The Dry Tortugas National Park Made up of seven small islands, it is one of. Full-Day Excursion – $644. To get there, you must either paddle over or have your own private boat. Discover Scuba – 1-Day Resort Course; Morning 2-Tank Dive: Vandenberg Wreck; Afternoon 2-Tank Reef Dive; Snorkeling Tours. m. Dry Tortugas Seaplane Excursion $ 451. Another boat with a couple of locals came. However keep in mind this can change based on the weather, season and different ships on the route. to 4:30 p. Plan your schedule. A small number of incident management team. Loggerhead Key, which is the largest of the Dry Tortugas, is located 3 miles from Garden Key and Fort Jefferson. Went on a trifecta visit to FL national parks in Nov 2022. and over) on behalf of the NPS at check in. The 2. See moreKeys Seaplanes is the best way to explore the aerial views here! A one of a kind experience for those looking to see the Dry Tortugas and Ft. You could look into the seaplane . Call 305. Inside Key West Aquarium. Children under two-years-old fly on the laps of their. The ferry gives about 4:30-4:45 hours at the fort. Scenic flight with view of shipwrecks, sea life, and Fort Jefferson from the air; Low-altitude flying means you can dive at the National Park or Key West the same day; Half-day option available; FREE parking at the airport; Alone time on the island—the morning flight. The Dry Tortugas lie almost 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, composed of a cluster of seven islands, made up of coral reefs and sand, and a direct route from the Cuban mainland to Florida. Dry Tortugas National Park is a fort 70 miles west of Key West. (888) 651-9785. Coast Guard Air Station MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew poses with three rescued men after their boat sunk near Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida, on April 30, 2023. ), Military helicopters, Key West (Fla. Inter-Island Flights. Panama City Man Dies Snorkeling In Dry Tortugas National Park - Palmetto Bay-Cutler, FL - A couple found the 49-year-old man unresponsive in the water and brought him to land. Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Armed Forces have a helicopter exchange program (I honestly don’t know if it was in place in 1980 – it was by 1985) – one of my former units Air Station Cape Cod hosted the Canadian pilot (great program!!!) – and the American pilot. Two navy helicopters taking off from coal docks at Fort Jefferson Keywords Environmental protection, Wildlife conservation, Dry Tortugas (Fla. There are many areas to explore this park -- both above and below the water!Camping on Garden Key is one of the best ways to experience Dry Tortugas National Park. By Ferry. At the heart of Dry Tortugas is Fort Jefferson, one of the largest forts in the Western Hemisphere. Spaces. There are some lights in the fort, but otherwise no electricity in public areas. A true hidden gem, this guide takes you on a deep. Dry Tortugas, named after the presence o f sea turtles and lack of freshwater, is a group of islands located 65 miles west of Key West, Florida. The Dry Tortugas are a remote string of 7 islands located at the west end of the Florida Keys, 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West and 37 miles (60 km) west of the Marquesas Keys, the closest islands. Take a flight and soar above the majestic views of our little gem of an island. Key West Parasailing Adventure $ 70. 20 for children aged 12 and under, and similarly free for children under two years old. Fly-KeyWest Helicopters is the most thrilling attraction in Key West, with helicopter tours starting at just $90 per person! If you’re looking for things to do, get a bird’s eye view over the beautiful waters of Key West, spot. Since Dry Tortugas NP was the closest source for assistance, ranger Roy Appugliese and chief of operations Wayne Landrum and "Activa" captains Cliff Green and Linda Vannaman went out to the boat, accompanied overhead by the Coast Guard helicopter. . Cost: Day trips to Dry Tortugas are $180 per adult. The site is submerged around what is known as Garden Key, about 70 miles west of the southernmost point. Approximately 70 miles west of Key West lies beautiful Dry Tortugas National Park and Ft. Due to the remote location, and. About Dry Tortugas. A Professionally Printed Fine Art Photograph available on Premium Luster Paper, Canvas, or an Aluminum Sheet. Sunscreen (preferably reef safe) Change of dry clothes for your comfort on the return flight. About 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, lies Dry Tortugas National Park which is world-renowned for picturesque blue sea waters, white sands, brightly colorful coral reefs, abundant marine life, and legends of shipwrecks and sunken treasures. You will also shorten your travel time out to the Dry Tortugas National Park,. Roosevelt under the Antiquities Act on January 4, 1935. For most sailors, the first leg is down Hawk Channel to the Marquesses Keys, which will take most of a day. They fly half-day and full day excursions to Garden Key in Dry Tortugas National Park via a 40. 5 hours for full day. Plan Your Garden Key Camping Experience. While visiting Dry Tortugas National. A Coast Guard Air Station MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew poses with three rescued men after their boat sunk near Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida, April 30, 2023. Because it is so far it means fewer people. 1) Everglades NP (1. Most of the park is water, but it is also home to coral reefs, bird nesting grounds, and historic Fort Jefferson. Marine life concentrates near patches of live coral. S. One is by the dock ruins on North Beach, and the others is by the dock ruins (and moat wall) on South Beach. The trip from Key West to the Dry Tortugas can be an adventure in itself. Truman Little White House. Jefferson and landing right on the azure Gulf waters. No refund if cancelling a confirmed seat(s) less than 48 hours prior to flight time. Contact Yankee Freedom at (305) 294-7009 or book online HERE. Balance and applicable taxes due at check-in. $50. Jefferson but do not wish to spend time on the ground at the fort. Game & Entertainment Centers. Its discovery by Ponce de Leon in 1513, during which he encountered over 100 sea turtles, led to the name Tortugas, meaning “turtles”. Tours start at just $99 per person! Get a bird’s eye view over the beautiful waters of Key West, spot wildlife like sea turtles, dolphins, and stingrays, and view parts of the island that are only accessible by air and sea. See what a survey team at Florida’s Dry Tortugas National Park found underwater. Seven small, sand islands—Archeologists have found the remains of a 19th century quarantine hospital and cemetery on a submerged island in Florida's Dry Tortugas National Park in the Gulf of Mexico. Helicopter pad area ; North and South beaches; Inside park boundaries but outside the RNA area (RNA indicated in red above; park boundaries. The Yankee Freedom ferry is a popular Dry Tortugas transportation option. There is no cell service, wifi, or air conditioning. – Police said Sunday that they were investigating the death of a 67-year-old man from Louisiana off the Florida Keys. The data collected during this expedition will inform conservation management and offer. Flying there is half the fun! Once you arrive, you can go to Fort Jefferson and hear pirate tales or snorkel in the clear waters of the Dry Tortugas. But keep in mind that the last week in October is always crowded due to Fantasy Fest. 420 heavy guns. Title: "Beach Party" - This UH-60 Blackhawk crashed the party at Dry Tortugas National park landing on an old dilapidated Cement Pad. All three people were rescued. No, if you have a reservation with us you don’t need to book separately with the NPS. Dive-in-a-Day Resort Course $ 229. MIAMI — A Coast Guard Air Station Miami MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew rescued three men, Sunday, after their vessel sank near Dry Tortugas National Park. 3M subscribers in the aviation community. . 4 hour half day and 8 hour full day tours daily. Two navy helicopters landing on coal docks at Fort Jefferson Keywords Environmental protection, Wildlife conservation, Dry Tortugas (Fla. Dry Tortugas National Park ServiceThis helps regulate the number of campers on the island. Rescheduling will be accommodated only if space is available for the requested dates. Key West Seaplane Adventures is the only company that flies to Dry Tortugas National Park. Rise. Make reservations for a Dry Tortugas Tour by booking online or. By Julianne McShane. They are authorized by the National Park Service. LifeNet helo N54ILN coming in for a landing at the South Coaling Dock of Fort Jefferson, Garden Key, Dry Tortugas. The name Dry Tortugas National Park is a bit of a misnomer, considering that less than one percent of this Florida national park’s 100 square miles is dry land. We offer a fleet of aircraft options and will choose one that best suits your needs. Tortuga IV $ 65. Dry Tortugas National Park. The island has some of the most pristine beaches in Costa Rica, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. On the other hand, Key West is the. 1. The Dolphin helicopter crew arrived on scene at approximately 2 p. r. Since their discovery by Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León in 1513, the islands of Dry Tortugas have been a staple of wonder and amazement for Florida Key West travelers all over the. a helicopter (picking up a visitor with a heart condition), two ferry operations from Key West, the Park Service shuttle. Here is an overview of the best time to visit Dry Tortugas National Park for specific conditions: You’ll experience the mildest weather in Dry Tortugas National Park in January, February, March, November, and December. Dry Tortugas National Park will close for “several days” so that authorities and medical workers can evaluate, care for and transport some 300 migrants, park officials said. Since. The Dry Tortugas, a remote island group and National Park located 70 miles west of Key West, has been known as a shark mating ground since the late 1800s, but came under direct study in the early 1990s when Wes started visiting the area with Dr. and over) on behalf of the NPS at check in. Find the travel option that best suits you. Roosevelt Key West, FL 33040. Dry Tortugas National Park is only 70 miles from the Florida Keys and Key West, making it one of the best snorkeling and skin diving spots in North America. Copper Compass Craft Distilling Co. The NPS has managed Fort Jefferson on Garden Key in the Dry Tortugas since Fort Jefferson National Monument was established by Congress in 1935. Snorkeling is, of course, a big draw to the islands, but the Dry Tortugas is also home to many shipwrecks that are great places to scuba dive. 80. This trip is just under 8 hours long, providing at least 6 1/2 hours of island time at Fort Jefferson/Dry. Dry Tortugas, Florida Shutterstock. It is a full day experience and most of that will be spent on board the ferry. (Comprising 47,125 acres (19,071 ha) The monument was expanded in 1983 and re-designated as Dry Tortugas National Park on October 26, 1992 by an act of Congress. Time at Dry Tortugas: 2. Active and retired military get in free of charge. In those early days, very little was. The Dry Tortugas National Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays. Dry Tortugas National Park is rich in both significant cultural and natural resources. Junto con las aguas y los bancos de arena circundantes, constituyen el Parque Nacional Tortugas Secas. #13 of 161 things to do in Key West. 9 helpful votes. S. Choose the best airline for you by reading reviews and viewing hundreds of ticket rates for flights going to and from your destination. With no car access, Dry Tortugas is only accessible by boat or seaplane. Key West Seaplane Adventures, Key West, Florida. - Videos from The Weather Channel | weather. The next point of land would be Mexico. Private boat, private plane or the Yankee Freedom III. Dry Tortugas National Park is near the southwestern edge of the Florida Platform. • Seaplane Adventures Key West is the only seaplane service to Dry Tortugas National Park. The process to reserve a campsite is to have a reservation with Yankee Freedom. Snacks (We do not supply any food and there is none available at Dry Tortugas) Full-day passengers should bring a packed lunch (We can supply extra coolers & ice) $15. The Dry Tortugas have been the site where hundreds of ships have wrecked, stranded, or sustained causalities since its discovery in 1513. Rum and Reggae $ 60. Modern artillery made the fort no longer useful. Fort Jefferson Map. The fort is located on Garden Key in. The visitor center opens daily from 8:00am to 5:00pm.