To get the most out of Dry Tortugas National Park, you’ll need to get wet
The secluded park off the coast of Florida is home to crystal-clear waters filled with life and protected coral reefs. The majority of the park is open water, but there are seven small islands that offer a haven for unique birds, endangered sea turtles, and other species. The park has a long history that dates back to Ponce de Leon in the sixteenth century. Despite being one of the least visited national park in America each year, Dry Tortugas is not without its attractions.
What makes Dry Tortugas National Park unique?
The 100 square miles of the Dry Tortugas National Park are entirely covered by water. Scuba diving and snorkeling are both ideal there.
According to the National Park Service, when Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon discovered the islands in 1513, he gave them the name Las Tortugas, which is Spanish for “the turtles,” since he saw only sea turtles there. According to the Park Service, the islands would later serve as a key junction for Spanish explorers traveling between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
When the U.S. Army erected Fort Jefferson there in the 19th century, the location was still strategically important. The fort “fulfilled its intended role,” according to the park, despite neither being finished nor being attacked. It aided in preserving a new nation's prosperity and peace. It is currently recognized as a park landmark.
Where exactly are the Dry Tortugas?
The distance between Key West and Dry Tortugas National Park is around 70 miles. Key West International Airport is the closest airport, although it requires a hike to get to the far-flung park. It's difficult to get to the Dry Tortugas. It can only be reached by boat or aircraft, neither of which is inexpensive.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which receives about 13 million tourists annually, had less than 78,500 visitors in the park in 2022.
Seaplane or ferry? The Dry Tortugas: How do you get there?
The Yankee Freedom Ferry and Key West Seaplane Adventures are partners with the park. Additionally, a number of third-party charter tours are offered at various prices.
Additionally, personal boats are permitted, although they need a free boat permit.
Why does Dry Tortugas National Park cost so much?
The park is inexpensive on its own. Visitors 16 years of age and older must pay $15 to enter, while children under 16 are admitted free. Transportation is what is expensive. Day travels by ferry cost $200, while half-day seaplane excursions for anyone over 12 cost $451.
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