If you’ve ever wanted to explore the Dry Tortugas, you may be wondering how to visit them. There are several options available, including a boat charter, seaplane, or high-speed catamaran/ferry. If you are planning to visit this amazing National Park, it’s important to follow some rules to enjoy your trip. To ensure a safe and pleasant experience, you should be aware of the weather conditions and the best times to visit the Dry Tortugas.
Fort Jefferson
While the main island of Fort Jefferson is home to the Dry Tortugas National Park, the smaller islands of North Beach and South Beach are also worth visiting. The latter has a beach with primitive camping, but you will have to bring your kayak or camping gear yourself. During a breezy day, the waves are larger and the current is stronger.
The best time to visit the Dry Tortugas is from November to April. However, you should avoid the harsher winter months of October to January. Sea conditions in these areas are more unpredictable than in warmer areas. So, it’s best to plan your trip accordingly. Be sure to bring plenty of warm clothes, and bring your own snorkel and mask.
The Dry Tortugas are easily accessible from Florida by boat or seaplane. One of the most notable attractions is Fort Jefferson, which was constructed with 16 million bricks between 1846 and 1875. It was once considered the nation’s “gatekeeper” to the Gulf of Mexico, but was only used sparingly in the nineteenth century. The ruins of the fort are now protected by the Dry Tortugas National Park.
The National Park contains seven islands, and is located 70 miles west of Key West. The seven small islands are accessible by seaplane and boat, and are dotted with stunning wildlife and coral reefs. It’s also home to the historic Fort Jefferson and an array of birds and other animals. If you are looking for a unique, memorable trip, the Dry Tortugas are worth visiting.
You can board the ferry from Key West and spend the day exploring the islands. The ferry is open daily at 7:30 and will take you to the islands in around 2 hours. You can get a National Park Passport stamp at the visitor center, but be prepared for the long boat ride. Also, remember that you should purchase tickets for the ferry in advance to avoid last-minute hassle.
Boat charter
If you love scuba diving and the underwater world, you’ll love the Dry Tortugas. These islands are home to the 3rd largest barrier reef system in the world, and are a great place to go snorkeling. You can even try your hand at spearfishing!
There are plenty of options when it comes to booking a boat charter to visit the Dry Tortugas. The Sailing catamarans from Bluesail can accommodate up to six passengers and feature a fully equipped galley and freshwater tanks. The boats also feature the latest in navigation and communication systems.
A boat charter to visit the Dry Tortugas is a great option for people who want to see these unique islands from a different perspective. You can choose from a variety of different trips, from a half-day excursion to a full-day private charter. Many companies also offer snorkeling gear, a dive trip, guided fishing, or a wildlife tour.
There are also commercial ferries that make the trip. Typically, they leave Key West at 8am and return at 5:00pm. A private boat charter offers you the freedom to see all of the Dry Tortugas and more, and it’s a great way to get an exclusive experience. You’ll also be able to avoid the crowds that usually surround the campgrounds and beaches.
If you’d prefer to travel in style and comfort, consider a multi-day yacht charter with Bluesail. These trips will help you beat the crowds and allow you to move at your own pace, sleep comfortably, and enjoy your vacation to the fullest. Bluesail offers both bareboat and crewed charters to the Dry Tortugas.
Seaplane
One of the fastest ways to get to the Dry Tortugas is by seaplane. The flight takes less than half an hour, and you get more time to explore the island. You can get a half day ticket for 2.5 hours on the island or a full day ticket for 6.5 hours. This option will give you more time to explore the island and avoid the crowds.
Another option for getting to Dry Tortugas is by ferry. Ferry tickets cost a lot less than seaplane tickets and include the $15 cash-only National Park Entry Fee. Seaplanes are only available during certain times, so you’ll have to plan your trip accordingly. Whichever transportation method you choose will depend on your budget, your time constraints, and the experience you’re looking for.
Seaplane tours offer the best view of the islands from the air. You’ll be given a window seat and a headset to listen to the pilot’s commentary on the sights along the way. The flight is a real adventure, as the seaplane flies at a low 500-foot altitude, making it possible for you to see everything from the islands.
Seaplane tours are a great way to see the Dry Tortugas from the air. They are fast and convenient and allow you to arrive in the islands before the ferry. During the flight, you’ll be able to see the Dry Tortugas from above, including their underwater sand dunes and even shipwrecks.
High speed catamaran/ferry
If you are a nature lover, a high speed catamaran/ferry to the Dry Tortugas can be the perfect way to get there. This boat can take up to thirty passengers and is an excellent choice for big groups or corporate outings. You can also customize your trip to include snorkeling gear and custom catering.
If you are looking to snorkel the beautiful waters of the Dry Tortugas, a catamaran charter is an excellent option. The waters are clear and shallow, and you can see plenty of sea life and coral reefs. Those who want to dive or snorkel should bring polarized sunglasses.
You can charter a high speed private catamaran or take a ferry from Key West to the Dry Tortugas. The Yankee Freedom iii runs from Key West to the Dry Tortuga Islands, and costs about $190 for an adult. During the two-and-a-half-hour journey, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast while onboard. The Yankee Freedom iii also provides restrooms, an upper level sundeck, and four viewing platforms.
You can choose between day trips and camping trips to the Dry Tortugas. There are many activities for visitors to enjoy, and the ferry can take you there and back in about two hours. In addition to snorkeling, you can also take part in a fishing trip.
The Dry Tortugas are located 70 miles west of Key West. These islands feature coral reefs, mangrove islands, and calcified outcroppings that make it a great snorkeling paradise.
Camping
If you’re looking for a quiet place to camp, you’ll love the Dry Tortugas National Park. This secluded enclave of natural wonders covers only 1% of Florida’s surface area. Despite the remote location, the islands offer world-class snorkeling, endless ocean views, and excellent camping options.
To get to Dry Tortugas, you’ll need a boat or seaplane. You can also use a high-speed catamaran/ferry. However, be sure to book ahead of time and make sure the boat is available. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages.
For those who would prefer to camp on the islands, there are two campgrounds in Dry Tortugas: Garden Key and Dry Tortugas National Park. These campgrounds have very limited space, so you will need to make reservations in advance to avoid disappointment. While camping in Dry Tortugas can be a challenge, you can take advantage of available resources and make your stay a memorable experience.
Camping in Dry Tortugas requires advance planning, as you’ll need to take a boat or seaplane from the mainland to the island. This requires at least three hours of travel time and a boat ticket. The ferry can transport up to eight people per day, so make sure to reserve the best option for your needs.
Getting to Dry Tortugas is easy: the ferry leaves from Key West at 7 am and arrives in the morning. The trip lasts four hours, and the ticket costs $180 for adults. Children and senior citizens receive discounted rates.