Dry Tortugas National Park

So for those who don’t know, Dry Tortugas is a pretty unique National Park. Why? Because unlike other National Parks, the only way to make it out to this one is by boat or seaplane. Yep, that’s right. I believe this also makes this one of the most expensive National Parks you can visit in the United States. You see, prices for both modes of transportation go up every year and they were already expensive years ago when I first did the trip! As of the posting of this blog, prices for the ferry are $250 USD per person and the seaplane is $507 USD per person for a half-day or $890 USD for full-day excursions. Don’t quote me on this, but I’m pretty sure when I took my first trip out in 2022 the ticket for the ferry was around $180 and I already thought that was pricey.

Tip: There are discounts offered for those with National Park passes (adult, senior and students). If you don’t have a pass, try and plan your trip during one of the “Fee Free Days” when all admissions are the same price as those with passes. Oh, and BOOK AHEAD! Tickets will sell out!

Dry Tortugas is located about 70 miles west off the coast of Key West, FL. It is made up of a few small islands but the main attraction in the park (and where the ferry & seaplane will take you) is Fort Jefferson. Fort Jefferson is located on Garden Key which is the second largest island in the Dry Tortugas. The park headquarters, visitor center, campgrounds and swimming/snorkeling areas are all located on the island as well.

Besides exploring the Fort, guests are also able to swim in the beautiful blue water that surrounds the fort as well as snorkel. Be careful of the time of year you go though! The first time I made it out was in May and the water was perfect. Barracuda like to hang around the island so be aware that you will most likely see some good sized fish! The second time I made it out was in September and the island was surrounded by jellyfish. People were still braving the water for snorkeling but were coming back on the boat covered in welts.

Besides that, guests can also make a night of the trip and camp! These are primitive campsites so you’ll be carrying in/carrying out all supplies for your trip. I haven’t done this myself but I’ve talked to people who have and they said it’s a magical experience. If you’re into stargazing, this would be a great opportunity to get away from all the light pollution and check out the beautiful night skies.

Not only is it cheaper, but it is a fun experience! I’ve taken the ferry twice now and didn’t have an issue either time. It is also really nice to not have to worry about planning anything! They take care of everything. You’re literally just along for the ride!

Check-in starts at 7am in Key West with an 8am departure time. You’ll arrive at the fort around 10:30am and you have until 3pm to explore the island. That may seem like such a short amount of time but believe me, it’s more than enough! You’ll be back in Key West by 5:30pm that evening.

So what’s included with your ferry ticket? They provide breakfast and lunch as well as complimentary snorkeling equipment. Breakfast was small – a bagel with cream cheese and some random snacks. Lunch was Jersey Mike’s subs with a drink and a variety of chips and cookies. The ferry also has bathrooms and showers onboard for you to use and there’s a good amount of space on the deck to hang outside during the trip over. I highly recommend heading out to the front of the boat and looking out for sea turtles or just watching the water as you head out to the island. There is also a gift shop on board where you can purchase snacks, drinks and souvenirs.

As for what you should bring, I recommend a small backpack to carry a towel, change of clothes, camera, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen. Wear comfortable shoes for whatever activity you plan on doing at the island as well. I found my tevas were a great choice for walking around the fort and hanging out on the beaches.

The other thing you need to keep in mind while planning this trip is the weather. It will be hot and there is little shade on the island. You’re always welcome to get back on the ferry for some A/C and shade, but do you really want to waste time on the island for that? Probably not.