Ft. Jefferson & The Dry Tortugas

Fort Jefferson at the Dry Tortugas-a day here is one of the best things to do while visiting Key West.

About 70 miles due west of Key West, accessible by catamaran, ferry or seaplane, lies beautiful Dry Tortugas National Park and Ft. Jefferson.

Visitors are drawn to this spot by its fascinating history as well as its gorgeous beaches. The trip to the stark, yet stunning, islands crosses incredibly clear waters where shipwrecks and sea life are usually visible. Divers, snorkelers and nature lovers flock to the area for its coral formations, loggerhead turtles, French angel fish and many rare birds.

The Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon first discovered this island chain in 1513 and called them Las Tortugas, meaning The Turtles, for the great number of sea turtles found there. The latter name, Dry Tortugas, was intended to warn seafarers that the islands contain no fresh water.

On Garden Key, the largest island in the group, you’ll find historic Ft. Jefferson – once envisioned as the largest link in America’s coastal defense system. Its original purpose was to control navigation into the vast Gulf of Mexico and protect the Atlantic-bound Mississippi River trade from piracy. Begun In 1846, it used 16 million bricks - making it the largest masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere - although it was never actually finished. You can travel to its remnants today in America’s most remote and least visited national park.

With remarkable snorkeling, thousands of migratory birds, and endless ocean vistas, you will never forget the sense of wonder that comes from visiting a sight seen by only a lucky few.

Select from the links below to learn about the Ferry and Seaplane trips to the Dry Tortugas.

UPDATE (as of December 20, 2008) - The Dry Tortugas seaplane is currently not operating nor accepting reservations. If you would like to visit the Dry Tortugas, you must use the Dry Tortugas ferry.

Ferries to Ft. Jefferson/Dry Tortugas	Seaplane to Ft. Jefferson/Dry Tortugas	Dry Tortugas Camping

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