Charter a Boat to Dry Tortugas

So where is Dry Tortugas anyway? And how did such a unique national treasure get such a odd name? Nestled about 70 miles off the coast of Key West, the park is a actually group of islands (actually more like islets, they are so small) known for its sea turtles. The Spanish word for turtles is torgugas, explaining a portion of its unique name.

But what makes it dry, given that Dry Tortugas Park is surrounded by the waters of the crystal clear blue Caribbean? It turns out that the name comes from when the Spaniards occupied the islands, and they quickly discovered there was no fresh water available. So the islands eventually became known as the Dry Tortugas, or “dry turtles.” To this day, as a major tourist attraction, boaters and tour operators must bring in their own water for visitors.

First designated a National Monument by FDR, the Dry Tortugas islets were named a National Park in 1992 at the tail end of George H. W. Bush’s term. As the home of the unfinished Civil War era Ft Jefferson (a brick structure which came to be used as a prison housing accused conspirators in Lincoln’s assassination), the strip of sandy beaches and colorful reefs is now a destination for the 80,000 tourists who visit each year. All leave this national treasure in amazement at its fascinating history involving its original intent to be a fortress against the real Caribbean pirates.

Visitors to Dry Tortugas can enjoy a large array of activities, from educational tours of Ft. Jefferson, to lazy days on the beach, to spectacular wildlife snorkel tours of the corral reef.

Of coures, one can only get to the islands by boat or sea plane. So if you want to book a trip, a Dry Tortugas charter will be necessary. There are some great discounts available on Dry Tortugas charters, Key West hotels, Key West snorkeling, and other recreation packages at Gold Card Key West.

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