Neither of these locations are close to Key West. All rights reserved. We especially liked the view of the beach where we had found the conch shells. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-96964966', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');plane is way out of our budget. Some of the activities include exploring Fort Jefferson, snorkeling, birdwatching, camping, scuba diving, fishing, and kayaking. While the Dry Tortugas is a special trip and the Fort is unique, I think you would find a small charter out to the backcountry or snorkeling at the reef on a boat like Floridays just as enjoyable in its own way. For a list of approved private charters, visit the National Park Service website. The (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? News Release Date: October 9, 2022 Contact: Allyson Gantt, 786-610-8023 Contact: Mike Litterst, 202-306-4166 Key West, Fla. - Concession-operated ferry service to Dry Tortugas National Park will resume on Monday, October 10 after engineers inspected the storm-damaged dock on Garden Key and determined it is safe to partially reopen. Cookie Notice Perfect picture opportunity! Try and find a way to take the seaplane -it is a once in a lifetime trip IMO, Agree with Louise M .. the seaplane is much more than just transportation it is imperative to take the first (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It is accessible only by boat or seaplane. Nothing like fishing the crystal clear waters 5.0 / 5 . Ticket includes entrance fee to Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson. The dates below are scheduled maintenance days when the ferry will not be running: Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson Ferry Service. Camping is completely sold out through April 2021. Catch a ride on the Dry Tortugas ferry or book a ticket on a seaplane to Dry Tortugas to truly explore what this Florida . At 3 pm, the ferry departs Dry Tortugas National Park, and you will arrive in Key West at 5:30 pm. Midday, the ferry deposits a lot of people on the island, so it is more crowded during this time. NOTE: we do not provide the kayaks, only transportation. If you can, try to do Dry Tortugas but that's a whole day while you're down there. There will be cancelations but how many it is not clear this far out. We headed for the moat wall. Theodore, The wait list opens at 6:30AM and people are sometimes there as early as 6AM forming a line to get on the list. If you are coming just to go to the Dry Tortugas, then you should stay in Key West. View our ADA Accessibility Policy. 3.3 Fishing in the Dry Tortugas. Also if you are looking for more activities to do in Key West check out the Aquarium, the Shipwreck Museum, the Conch Train and our favorite Key West water activities! Ferry details: Address: 100 Grinnell St, Key West, FL 33040 Contact number: (305) 294-7009 Prices: $190 for adults and $135 for children (4 to 16 years old) Tickets can be booked online directly with the Yankee Freedom III Seaplane to Dry Tortugas From Key West Airport, you can reach the national park via seaplane. When we had gone on a guided tour kayak trip the week before the guide had explained how there use to be so many birds around the mangrove islands and how the birds had been hunted almost to extinction. Private charter boat is your other option. Youll hear captivating stories about the fort, its remarkable history and its surroundings. If you love civil war and military history this is a must. At the Dry Tortugas, they focus on preserving the original look of the fort so there are no railings anywhere so you can literally go to the edge which gives you amazing views. Tip 3: Be sure to walk around the tip of the peninsula. Why? We really enjoyed our time in the Dry Tortugas and wished we had more than two and a half hours. The Dry Tortugas are a group of small islands composed of coral reefs located in the Gulf of Mexico at the end of the Florida Keys, United States. Public ferries and seaplanes depart regularly to the park, and fishing and dive charters can be booked from the Florida Keys and Naples. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-96972143', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');plane - once in a lifetime experience! For day trips, adults should pay $190 while children will be charged $135 This secluded park is located about 70 miles from Key West, and it definitely deserves a spot as one of the best places to . The boat ride for us was very rocky on the way there and not quite as bad on the way back but I wouldnt call it smooth. Learn about the special connection between the most remote US Fort built by Thomas Jeffereson and Dr. Samuel Mudd, an alleged conspirator of the Lincoln assassination. We use cookies to give you the best experience. The ferry is sold out for our dates that we are in town and the sea (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 2. Provided by Touchpoints If you're early risers be there at boarding time by 7:30am & you'll know by 8am when they leave if there's any open spots. I will tell you hands down it was worth the money. Below we shared tips on visiting the Dry Tortugas, Florida and what to expect when you visit. There are 3 of us who would need tickets. The first floor was gorgeous with all of the arches. This will be collected by Park Rangers during your stay. However, if you would like to standby for the trip to the Dry Tortugas in case there are no-shows, you must go to the Ferry Terminal (100 Grinnell St.) as EARLY as you can get there on the morning you would like to travel. Listen to the sounds of the waves as you enjoy a meal from our Snack Bar, or if you choose have a cocktail in the Steamboat Lounge, as the . Privacy PolicyThis website meets WCAG 2.0/2.1 AA standards set by the ADA. Fastest way to and from Dry Tortugas National Park, Can visit the Dry Tortugas with low crowds before the ferry arrives or late in the date once the ferry departs, The full day tour seems a little too long, Cant bring camping gear or scuba equipment, 4.5 hours on the Dry Tortugas, a nice amount of time on the islands, Can bring camping gear, scuba equipment, and kayaks, More crowded experience on the Dry Tortugas, Private tour of Dry Tortugas National Park. Magic Kingdom In One Day 11 Tips On How To Do It! Our website uses cookies. Here are some of the highlights of my countless trips to the three National Parks (Banff, Jasper and Yoho) in the Canadian Rockies. Then all of a sudden this island pops up out of nowhere. Must reschedule by 6:00pm Eastern TWO (2) DAYS prior to trip date by calling (305) 294-7009. If you just look at cost, the private charter is the most expensive option. Cost: $371 per adult, $296.80 for children 12 and under National Park Fee: $15 (this is in addition to the seaplane ticket price) Grand Total: $386 Length of Time: 4 hours total; 40-minute flight each way and 2.5 hours at Dry Tortugas National Park. Located 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most unique destinations in the entire U.S., as it combines history and a pristine marine ecosystem into one unforgettable experience. The word "dry" was later added to the name to indicate to other sailors the lack of fresh water on the islands. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. There is no other way to do it. Key West Seaplane Adventures offers a 4-hours and 8-hour adventures to Dry Tortugas National Park. ; The Seaplane charges park entrance fee upon check-in. The ferry costs $200 for adults and $145 for kids through the age of 16. Take the Ferry to Dry Tortugas The best way for most park visitors to get to Dry Tortugas is by charter boat on the Yankee Freedom iii. Entry to the national park costs $15 and this is included in the price of the Dry Tortugas National Park ferry. Dry Tortugas National Park: Nice trip! "One of the 10 great places to explore nooks and crevasses" USA Today, "One of the top 10 things to do in the Florida Keys" Islands Magazine, "One of the coolest things to do in Key West" Rachael Ray Magazine, {{current_weather.dt | momentjs( atts.date )}}. 3.2 Hiking around Fort Jefferson. Re: Dry Tortugas 1 year ago Save By using our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Fully Narrated 45-min. The 2.5 hours in Dry Tortugas National Park goes by extremely fast, and the entire time Tim and I felt like we were in a race. There are two options for most people getting to Dry Tortugas which is located 70 miles from the coast of Key West, Florida. You should dress warmly if you're doing a Hells Canyon jet boat anytime but summer, but dress in layers. just wait until you experience the open-air restaurants and charming little shops of . The snorkeling is actually better at the reef. Cruise in spacious comfort to Fort Jefferson aboard the Official Dry Tortugas National Park Ferry - the Yankee Freedom. It was quite the experience and the ride. The ferry is your only "cheap" option. Take your comfortable seat and enjoy the relaxing ride to the Dry Tortugas National Park Fort Jefferson, just 70 miles west of Key West. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Q: Do you have a waiting list I can put my name on? Also note check in time is currently 7am (always validate this when you book in case it changes) and the boat departs at 7:30am. We were on the first flight at 8 am. We've done it twice, I loved it so much the first time I couldn't wait to do it again. When you take the ferry to the Dry Tortugas, you get to the island at about 10:30am. The snorkeling is actually better at the reef. However, we were NOT ready to leave when it was time to go. About Port Jefferson Ferry: Port Jefferson Ferry. Best Things to Do in Dry Tortugas National Park, Best Things to do at Dry Tortugas National Park. Your email address will not be published. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Earth Trekkers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to Amazon.com. General availability can be checked by going to https://www.drytortugas.com/rates-reservations/ and clicking on the Book Now button. Camping is $200 per adult. best things to do along the Florida Keys. Duration to : 2.5 hours each way. LEARN MORE Secluded Beaches Secluded Beaches Whether swimming, sun bathing or just plain strolling, you will enjoy the crystal blue waters, swaying palm trees and soft, powdery sand of this island paradise. guides and enjoy an array of activities. Click to Chat. If you want to try to standby for the day trip in case of no-shows please go to the Ferry Terminal on the morning you want to go. My wife and I are from Northwest FL and are finally making it down to the keys for our anniversary. Yankee Freedom: Wow! This group of islands are the last keys in the Florida Keys. But eventually we could see the island. Sit back, relax and enjoy the view. There's also some fresh fruit, orange juice, and delicious bagelsfresh from the oven. The ferry is sold out for our dates that we are in town and the sea plane is way out of our budget. And while you're heading down there/back up, try to do the Everglades too! While the Dry Tortugas is a special trip and the Fort is unique, I think you would find a small charter out to the backcountry or snorkeling at the reef on a boat like Floridays just as enjoyable in its own way. You have to add the sales tax, the $10.00 pp entrance fee to the park, and will very likely need a cab both to and from the airport. We will be back and when we do go back we will definitely plan on camping for 3 nights! Unfortunately, I was an idiot and didn't book reservations for the ferry to Dry Tortugas early enough. Manage booking Connect Search MENU TICKETS Yankee Freedom - Dry Tortugas National Park Ferry 2068 reviews slideshow video Book this tour Overview Details Schedule Ferry To Dry Tortugas. Drive, walk or ride your bicycle aboard one of our three ferries. I would start saving now! The water color starts to change, the fort has old-fashion charm, and all the sooty terns birds are amazing. Tip 1: Plan to get to the boat terminal well before 7am just to be sure you arent late!! We do not keep a waiting list and will not call you in case of cancellations. Camping is completely sold out through April 2021. Seriously how can the water be those colors?! It was worth every dollar! Saint Augustine is pretty cool too- a national park/iconic . Privacy PolicyThis website meets WCAG 2.0/2.1 AA standards set by the ADA. The seaplane to Dry Tortugas will charge entrance fees to park upon arrival. Dry Tortugas National Park is a must-see if you're visiting Key West. The Yankee Freedom has resumed normal capacity daily scheduled service to the Dry Tortugas. As a place filled with great beauty, solitude, and history, Dry Tortugas is one of the greatest weekend getaways in Florida. Dry Tortugas is made up of seven islands: Garden Key, Loggerhead Key, Bush Key, Long Key, Hospital Key, Middle Key, and East Key The word tortugas is Spanish for turtles, due to the large amount that inhabit the surrounding waters. They do not transport campers to the island. A maximum of 68 campers can stay here and space is on a first-come, first-served basis. Are you ready to book your ticket to the Dry Tortugas? Key West Tourism Key West Hotels Key West Bed and Breakfast Key West Vacation Packages Flights to Key West Key West Restaurants Things to Do in Key West The ferry serves a continental breakfast that consists of coffee, cereal, and doughnuts. We took the ferry over. They warn you to be very careful since the closest hospital is over 2 1/2 hours away! If you return you'll know to book early. Content from this Website may not be copied, downloaded, reproduced or used without written permission! Yankee Freedom, LLC is authori It's just not the same experience at all . If you love Key West snorkeling, then Dry Tortugas National Park offers some of the best snorkeling and skin diving in North America, just 70 miles from Key West and the Florida Keys. The only ferry authorized to enter the water in Dry Tortugas National Park is the Yankee Freedom. Going by ferry turns your visit into a full day experience and most of that will be spent on board the ferry. If you have any questions about how to get to Dry Tortugas National Park, let us know in the comment section below. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the 100-square mile Dry Tortugas National Park is sited 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use. Key West Seaplane Adventures is the only company that flies to Dry Tortugas National Park. Campers at Dry Tortugas National Park are allowed to bring kayaks, subject to certain restrictions and availability of transport space on board the Yankee Freedom ferry. Things to know before your visit National Park Entrance Fee $15.00 per person ages 16+ and is good for 7 consecutive days - Ferry tickets include the cost of entrance to the park, but camping fees . Click for Privacy Policy / Disclosure Policy. Personally, I would save your money and spend it on a couple other water excursions like a snorkel trip to the reef or a sunset sail. The Yankee Freedom 3 is a large catamaran so this was not smooth sailing. However, the boat in the photo above looks very similar to the Yankee Freedom ferry. We visit Fort Jefferson and the Dry Tortugas on the show. Florida, USA. Reply Cost: $200 per adult, $145 for children 4 to 16, $190 for students, seniors, and active military Day Trip: $190 (includes $15 National Park Entry Fee) Overnight: $210 (does NOT include $15-$30 campsite fee) Parking at Ferry Terminal: $32 per day. Ticket includes entrance fee to Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson. Your email address will not be published. Experience today the simplicity and comfort of travel. The most popular ways to get to Dry Tortugas National Park are the Yankee Freedom ferry and Key West Seaplane Adventures, but you can also get there using a permitted personal boat or a private charter. Top 10 list to #PlanLikeaParkRanger for a visit to Dry Tortugas National Park. Cost. I spent several years working as a tour guide in Western-Canada, including the Rocky Mountains. drinks on board. In my personal humble opinion Dry Tortugas by seaplane (or charter - whatever gets you there without the ferry crowd) is a bucket list item . from my point of view don't hesitate to send me a pm. The rainiest months are June, July, August . Yankee Freedom III, LLC is authorized by the NPS and the Department of the Interior to serve the public at Dry Tortugas National Park. READ NEXT: Best Things to Do in Dry Tortugas National Park. Privacy PolicyThis website meets WCAG 2.0/2.1 AA standards set by the ADA. 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