The Dry Tortugas National Park - Photos, Information and How to get to the Dry Tortugas

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The Dry Tortugas National Park

Almost 70 miles (112.9 km) west of Key West lies a cluster of seven islands, composed of coral reefs and sand, called the Dry Tortugas. Along with the surrounding shoals and waters, they make up Dry Tortugas National Park. The area is known for its famous bird and marine life, and its legends of pirates and sunken gold. Ft. Jefferson, the largest of the 19th century American coastal forts is a central feature. Information on the Dry Tortugas is courtesy of the National Parks Service.

WE SUGGEST BRINGING:
towel
sunscreen
hat
sunglasses
swimsuit
comfortable shoes
camera & binoculars
jacket or long sleeve shirt in winter
don’t forget your watch

ENTRANCE FEES

Dry Tortugas National Park Fees
$5.00 - 17 and older - One Time

Seaplanes of Keywest, and Yankee Freedom are collecting the fee from their passengers. National Parks Pass, Golden Eagle, Golden Age, and Golden Access Passports honored

WHAT TO DO

Enjoy a Self-guiding walking tour of Fort Jefferson or Ranger conducted activities.

Snorkeling, Bird and wildlife watching. The Dry Tortugas are renowned for spring bird migrations and tropical bird species.

U.S. military attention was drawn to the keys in the early 1800's due to their strategic location in the Florida Straits. Plans were made for a massive fortress and construction began in 1846, but the fort was never completed. The invention of the rifled cannon made it obsolete. As the military value of Fort Jefferson waned, its pristine reefs, abundant sea life and impressive numbers of birds grew in value. In 1935, President Franklin Roosevelt set aside Fort Jefferson and the surrounding waters as a national monument. The area was redesignated as Dry Tortugas National Park in 1992 to protect both the historical and natural features.

3 Ways to the Dry Tortugas Daily Departures from Key West

The Dry Tortugas Transportation Center more >

Member: International Association of Travel Agencies Cruise Line International Association
Located at the Key West Ferry Terminal, 100 Grinnell Street Key West FL 33040
800-595-KEYS (5397)
or 305-295-9500
Call for extra rooms on sold out dates

Your Dry Tortugas Transportation Experts!