About this experience
Explore beautiful tropical beaches on this full-day catamaran trip from Key West to Dry Tortugas National Park. The Dry Tortugas islands were discovered by Ponce De Leon in 1513; he sighted more than 100 sea turtles swimming in the seas surrounding the seven islands. Fort Jefferson, located on one of the islands, was initially designed to serve as a defense for the United States back in 1812. Today, you can relive the history of these islands and take in their beautiful scenery by voyaging on a luxury catamaran from Key West.
At a glance
- Duration: 10 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 10 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- All adults must have a valid photo ID to get on the boat due to Coast Guard regulations. When booking, you must enter all guest names who will be going on the tour.
- We suggest you bring the following: bathing suit, comfortable shoes, towels, sun protection (sunglasses, a hat, sun screen) and camera
Local guides to help you plan
Dry Tortugas National Park: Complete Guide
Learn how to reach Dry Tortugas National Park, what Fort Jefferson hides, and why this remote island adventure demands more planning than most.
How to Get to Dry Tortugas From Key West
Beyond Key West lies Dry Tortugas by ferry, seaplane, or private boat—but one option changes everything, and most travelers choose wrong.
Dry Tortugas Ferry vs Seaplane: Which Is Better
Learn whether the Dry Tortugas ferry or seaplane gives you the better adventure, budget, and views before you book the wrong one.
What is included
- Narrated tour of Fort Jefferson available
- National Park Service Fee (USD15.00)
- Snorkeling equipment
- Breakfast and lunch
- Round-trip ferry service on the Yankee Freedom III
Not included
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Itinerary and highlights
The Yankee Freedom III catamaran is powered by twin Caterpillar engines that give her a speed of over 30 miles per hour, making Yankee Freedom III Catamaran the fastest vessel of her size out of Key West. Also, below decks are two generators plus a multitude of machinery and equipment to operate the vessel in the safest, quietest, and most dependable manner possible.
Yankee Freedom III passengers have the option of joining a 40-minute guided tour of the fort led by one of our expert naturalists. You’ll hear captivating stories about the fort, its remarkable history and its surroundings. As you explore the fort, imagine life here during the hectic 1860s. At its height nearly 2,000 people lived within this remote city on the sea... The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers faced many challenges during the fort’s lengthy construction. Shifting sands, storms, and harsh conditions were common obstacles. The remote location hampered the shipment of supplies and skilled workers, especially during the Civil War.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- Ferry departs from the terminal.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Historic Tours Of America - Dry Tortugas
Accessibility and practical details
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- All adults must have a valid photo ID to get on the boat due to Coast Guard regulations. When booking, you must enter all guest names who will be going on the tour.
- We suggest you bring the following: bathing suit, comfortable shoes, towels, sun protection (sunglasses, a hat, sun screen) and camera
- Reservations are NON-REFUNDABLE once booked.
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What accessibility information is provided?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
What is the cancellation policy?
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