About this experience
Experience the Dry Tortugas on a private full-day charter from Key West, designed for travelers who want more freedom than a crowded ferry schedule allows. Your group can explore Fort Jefferson, snorkel in crystal-clear water, relax on remote beaches, and, when conditions allow, visit Loggerhead Key and its historic lighthouse. We depart early to maximize your time in the park and, when possible, arrive before the larger ferry crowds. Because this is a private charter, the itinerary can be tailored to your group, weather, and sea conditions for a more personalized Dry Tortugas experience.
At a glance
- Duration: 8 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 8 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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.
Dry Tortugas Private Charter: What to Expect
A practical guide to Dry Tortugas private charters, including travel time, flexible itineraries, park fees, dock limits, weather, packing, and operator checks.
Key West Fishing Charter vs Party Boat Fishing
Choosing between a Key West private fishing charter and a party boat comes down to your group size, budget, preferred schedule, and how much control you want over the day. Compare published price examples, trip lengths,
What is included
- Coolers
- Snorkeling Gear
- Ice/Water
Not included
- Captain fee
- Dry Tortugas National Park entrance pass – $15 per person age 16+
- Fuel surcharge estimate – actual fuel used at current marina pump price
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
his is the primary destination of the charter. Garden Key is located within Dry Tortugas National Park and is home to historic Fort Jefferson.
Guests disembark on Garden Key and have approximately three hours to explore Fort Jefferson, walk the historic grounds and moat area, enjoy the beach, swim, snorkel, and experience the surrounding waters.
Construction of Fort Jefferson began in 1846. The fort was built to protect important shipping routes through the Gulf of Mexico and later served as a military prison. Today it is the main historic landmark within Dry Tortugas National Park.
Guests may divide their time between exploring the fort, relaxing on the beach, swimming, and snorkeling. The waters around Garden Key are known for tropical fish, coral, sea turtles, and other marine life, although wildlife sightings and water visibility cannot be guaranteed.
When weather, sea conditions, and available time permit, the captain may take guests near Loggerhead Key for additional sightseeing.
Guests may view Loggerhead Key and its historic lighthouse from the boat. This portion of the itinerary is not guaranteed and depends on conditions and the amount of time spent at Garden Key and Fort Jefferson.
The charter departs from Key West and travels approximately 70 miles west across the Gulf of Mexico to Dry Tortugas National Park.
During the ride, guests can enjoy open-water views and may see dolphins, sea turtles, seabirds, flying fish, and other marine life. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
The return trip to Key West takes approximately two hours depending on weather and sea conditions.
Total experience duration: approximately 8 hours.
The primary guaranteed destination is Fort Jefferson on Garden Key within Dry Tortugas National Park. Loggerhead Key is an additional sightseeing opportunity when conditions and timing allow.
Meeting and pickup information
- Please meet us at Hilton Key West Resort & Marina, 5950 Peninsular Ave, Key West, FL 33040. Proceed to Slip 612, where the Reel Paradise Charters boat and captain will be waiting for you.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Reel paradise charters
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Questions about this experience
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