Directions

How do you get to Dry Tortugas National Park?

 

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most remote parks in the National Park System. Located approximately 70 miles west of Key West it is accessible only by private boats, charter boats, or seaplane.

There is no commercial airplane or car access to the island. Also if traveling to the island you need to make preparations for all needs as there are no facilities other than a small gift shop in the fort.

 

Ferry or Seaplane offer Public Transportation
Public transportation departs to the park from Key West.

For ferry schedules, prices, and reservations, contact: Yankee Freedom II: phone [phone] or 305-294-7009 or www.yankeefreedom.com.

For seaplane schedules, prices, and reservations, contact: Key West Seaplane Adventures: phone [phone] or www.keywestseaplanecharters.com.

Charters are another option
Fishing and dive charters can be arranged in the Florida Keys and Naples. For a list of services, contact the park at 305-242-7700 or click here.

Private Boats
Private pleasure boats are welcome, but must be fully self-sufficient and must acquire a permit through the Park Rangers at Garden Key. U.S. Coast Guard and Geodetic Survey Chart #11438 is necessary for navigation to the Dry Tortugas

Note for private boats - There are Visitor boat slips available for short term use to load and unload or tour the fort at Garden Key. These docks are not available for overnight - boats must anchor in the harbor overnight. There are no public docks at loggerhead.

Private Seaplane
Private seaplanes that are not for hire are welcome at the Dry Tortugas. Because of sensitive resource issues, any individual or group wishing to fly a private seaplane to the park must have a Special Use Permit issued through Everglades National Park. There are no facilities at the Dry Tortugas National Park so all seaplanes must have enough fuel and supplies for a round trip flight. Information on how to acquire a permit may be found here.

There is no fuel, water, charcoal, or food service available in the park.

Getting Around
Upon arrival, see the orientation program at the visitor center in Fort Jefferson and take the self-guiding tour of the fort.

A boat is necessary to visit areas of the park other than Garden Key/Fort Jefferson.