Dry Tortugas Day Trip
No vacation in Key West is complete without a Dry Tortugas day trip. It’s the most remote U.S. National Park, but the journey is so worth the effort. Whether you’re into beaches, sea life, snorkeling, or history, a visit to the Dry Tortugas is an absolute bucket list essential.
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How to get to Dry Tortugas National Park
Besides having one of the most pristine beaches in the U.S., Dry Tortugas National Park is also the most remote U.S. National Park. In my opinion, the best way to visit is with the day trip offered by Yankee Freedom III. They are currently the only tour company offering day trips to the park. They handle all the transportation, logistics, and food so all you need to do is show up at the dock.
If you prefer to travel to the Dry Tortugas on your own terms, you can get to the Dry Tortugas by chartering a private boat or seaplane. If you have your own boat (lucky you!), you can get to the Dry Tortugas on your own with just a few-hour boat trip. That said, the most convenient and economical route by far is to book a day trip with Yankee Freedom III.
The cost for a Dry Tortugas National Park day trip from Key West with Yankee Freedom III is $190 for adults and $135 for children under 16. This includes your boat transportation, breakfast, lunch, guided tour, National Park entrance fee, and snorkel equipment.
Book your Dry Tortugas National Park day trip tickets online here
Note: This article is not sponsored and I do not make a commission promoting Yankee Freedom day trips. I’m truly just a fan and want to share this experience with you!
Check this out: How to get to Key West
Why take a day trip to Dry Tortugas
Haven’t heard of it? The Dry Tortugas are a group of small islands off the coast of Key West where you’ll find undisturbed clear blue water ready for snorkeling with sea turtles and reef fish. It’s also home to Fort Jefferson and its storied past. I’ve done this day trip to Dry Tortugas twice and it’s an absolute MUST.
Agenda for Dry Tortugas Day Trip
Set Sail
You’ll wake up early and head straight to the ferry terminal at 100 Grinnell Street to check-in by 7:00 am. After boarding the Yankee Freedom III, you’ll eat breakfast and sip your coffee while you sail through the tropical waters toward the Garden Key of Dry Tortugas, watching for dolphins along the way.
Around 10 am you’ll arrive at the Dry Tortugas and have a little time to explore before a tour of Fort Jefferson is offered at 11:00 am.
Fort Jefferson Tour
Next, you’ll want to check out the Fort Jefferson tour. Even if you’re not usually interested in guided tours, I’d highly recommend checking it out. The history of this place is really interesting and the guides are excellent. I truly enjoyed it and would even go again on my next trip. That said, the tour is optional, so if you’d rather spend the time on the beach go for it!
Lunch
Whether you go for the tour or not, between 11 am – 1 pm you’ll head back to the docked Yankee Freedom III where you’ll find a buffet lunch laid out. You can choose to eat in the air conditioning on the boat, or take your lunch to-go and have a picnic somewhere on the island.
Beach Time and Exploring
After lunch until 3:00 pm, you’re free to explore the island, lie on the beach, or snorkel. Snorkel equipment is provided if you did not bring your own.
You’ll find fluffy white sand, clear blue-blue water, and undisturbed coral reef life all around the island. I highly recommend at least a little time in the water where you’re likely to spot sea turtles and lots of colorful fish.
Depart Dry Tortugas
Finally, pry yourself away from this beautiful little island by 3 pm to board the boat again and head back to Key West. If you’re ready for a cocktail, the bar is open for the entire ride back. You’ll arrive back in Key West around 5 pm – just in time for happy hour!
What to bring to Dry Tortugas National Park
- Beach Towel
- Sunscreen – Looking for a reef-safe sunscreen? Here’s a brand I know, love, and trust – Raw Elements. You can get 10% off with coupon code “WHEREVERSOMEDAY10”.
- Seasickness Prevention – This trip does include 2+ hour boat rides so if you’re any bit prone to seasickness, be sure to bring some anti-nausea methods along. You can use my link to pick up all-day formula Dramamine from Amazon here, and/or some nifty reusable seasickness wrist bands here.
Whether you’re spending a week or a weekend in the Florida Keys, it won’t be complete without a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park.
