One of the best trips I have ever taken was a trip out to the Dry Tortugas National Park located close to 70 miles west of Key West. It is the home of Fort Jefferson which was once a prison during the Civil War. The trip had to be planned months in advance because the tours fill up quickly. This was a trip shared with two of my brothers.
Getting There and Back
We planned our trip through Dry Tortugas National Park Ferry website. Approximately 175 guests rode out from Key West to our destination on a high speed catamaran called the Yankee Freedom. It had plenty of deck space for those that wanted to enjoy the beautiful sunshine. A very spacious air-conditioned cabin for those that wanted to enjoy the ride in comfort was also provided. It took about two and a half hours to get to our destination. Traveling out by boat is not the only means to get there. You can purchase an airplane ride out there and back. This would definitely allow you more time to explore this tiny treasure.
Food and Beverage
There are bars with a wide range of drinks for the guests on both the upper and lower decks. The galley is open all day for snacks, souvenirs and necessities that you may have forgotten to pack (sunscreen, towels, underwater cameras). Lunch is provided from 11-1 and it is buffet style with sandwich options only. There were drinks, cookies and chips provided to go along with the meal.
Activities
Once we arrived, we decided to go ahead and eat. We then made our way to the beach. Many folks took their towels and spread them out to enjoy the sunshine. However, most folks that made their way to the beach started prepping for their snorkeling adventures. There is so much area to swim and snorkel. We found the best aquatic life with different species of fish located near an old pier. When we got a little further from shore, we got to see several large-sized barracuda. I made my way back closer to shore after a few pictures of these.
After our snorkeling adventure, we took a tour of the fort. There are plenty of placards available to read to give you an understanding of life at Fort Jefferson. There is a small gift shop to purchase souvenirs. Another activity that I’d like to try is camping. Yes, camping out in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico. Camping reservations have to be made by phone and they recommend calling 8-12 months in advance to check for available spots.
Proper Equipment for Snorkeling
One of my brothers is a U.S. Coast Guard veteran. His fins were much bigger than mine which enabled him to cover more territory at a faster pace. My tiny fins were tiring me out quickly. For my 100 kicks, he was taking about 6. I suggest you do research on snorkeling equipment before you go and have a good mask and some good fins.
Key West Arrival
We made it back to Key West close to 5:30. Needless to say, we exhausted ourselves from snorkeling and walking the fort. I also believe the sunshine drained a little bit out of us. The ride back on the outer deck was very relaxing and a great time to share a great experience with my brothers. Every time we text, call or see each other we greet each other with a hearty “TORTUGAS!!!”
Be blessed and safe travels!!!
