Key West and the entire Florida Keys is one of the most unique and breathtaking places in the United States, let alone the world. Hands down one of the best solo trips Iʻve ever taken in my early world travels. A highway that drives over blue water and scattered low lying islands far away from the mainland that feels worlds away. But many think Key West is the last stop in this vast area of Keys when in reality, it doesn’t end here.
Dry Tortugas, it’s a NATIONAL PARK
70 miles west of Key West, is a beautiful tropical oasis of about 8 to 9 islands to enjoy without the crowds the cars and modern city noise that exists in Key West. Established as a national park in 1935, Dry Tortugas is more of a marine reserve than your typical national park, but the purpose it serves as a preserved site allows you to really enjoy some of Floridas very own untouched beauty.
Itʻs a National Park, duh! ….Well, some of us nerds like to collect NPS brochures, stamps, and put pins on out maps :).
It’s Unique History: Fort Jefferson
Discovered by Ponce DeLeon and named for its sea turtles, Dry Tortugas notable history didn’t begin until the mid 1800s with the building of Fort Jefferson. During the civil war, it served as a prison housing Samuel Mudd, an individual connected to the Lincoln assassination. During the Spanish-American war, it served as a jump off point to fight in Cuba.
The structure in some parts had been in disrepair, but over the years fundin has allowed for the appropriate care to keep it intact. This is by far one of the most unique experiences to be here and be surrounded by endless blue sea.
The Isolation
It’s not like one doesn’t realize they took a catamaran or guided boat tour to get here. But apart from that, you really do feel isolated here and far away from, well everything. In every single direction around you, is literally nothing but blue sea. The sounds you here are nothing but light wind gusts and birds. Nothing matters out here, no stressors, no problems…you just become present.
How do I get here?
Boat: Best and only common way to get here is onboard the Yankee Freedom Catamaran from Key West.
Sea Plane: You may also charter a sea plane at a higher cost of course, but itʻs an option too.
Private Boat?: You may also go via boat should you have that means to travel. I believe you would have to pay the NPS fee of $15.00 and apply for a boating permit at Garden Key.
How Long does it take to get here?
By boat, it can take up roughly 2 Hours, possibly longer.
By Sea Plane, about 45 minutes.
How much does it cost?
Yankee Freedom: $190 (2022 prices)
Sea Plane Charter: $361 Half Day Charter / $634 Full Day Charter
Is it worth it?
ABSOLUTELY!!!!!!!!!!
Even including some of the most dramatic and beautiful places I’ve been to, Dry Tortugas National Parks to this day, is one of my favorites!
If you have any questions or feedback about visit the Dry Tortugas, please leave me a comment below and I will be happy to answer any questions.
If you enjoyed this blog post and enjoy travel, please do check the rest of my world travel experiences, stories, culture, & more.
