This 10-hour journey departs from Key West on board the Yankee Freedom III, a luxurious, state-of-the-art, high-speed catamaran that ferries passengers from Key West to Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson National Park. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take in the scenic beauty while cruising 70 miles off the coast through the Gulf of Mexico, listening to the naturalist tour guide describe the surroundings and the history of the national park.
Dry Tortugas National Park is located inside Fort Jefferson, one of the largest coastal forts ever built. This seven-island cluster is comprised of coral reefs and sand — and famous for its bird and marine life, as well as legends of pirates and sunken gold.
This tour includes a variety of exciting activities and amazing scenery while providing a sense of history. Begin with a 45-minute tour of the fort, then wander the beach looking for seashells and watching tropical birds swooping through the air. Try a bit of swimming or snorkeling around the coral reef, looking for dolphins and sea turtles in the warm, tropical water. Visitors agree, this is the best place for snorkeling in the Florida Keys.
Time for a break? Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on board the boat or along the shore.
Spend any remaining time sightseeing or wandering the island, then reboard the boat mid-afternoon and enjoy the trip back to Key West. Relax on the deck with a refreshing beverage from one of the onboard bars (own expense) and soak up the remaining rays of the sun — a perfect ending to a perfect day of outdoor fun and adventure.
