Contender 36 Open
A proven offshore center console built for speed, fishability, and open-water adventure. The go-to platform for Dry Tortugas day trips from Key West.
Offshore Proven & Adventure Ready
The Contender 36 Open is a legendary offshore center console designed to handle serious open water. Built for speed, stability, and fishability, this 36-footer is the perfect platform for reaching Dry Tortugas National Park quickly and comfortably from Key West.
With triple outboard power delivering 750 horses, you get a fast, smooth ride that eats up the 70-mile crossing. The deep-vee hull slices through chop effortlessly, keeping the ride comfortable even when conditions get sporty. A large T-top provides ample shade, and the open deck layout gives everyone plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the day.
This charter operates for both private charters (up to 12 guests) and shared per-seat trips (up to 6 guests), making Dry Tortugas accessible whether you want the whole boat or just a seat.
What Sets This Boat Apart
Purpose-built offshore performance meets thoughtful charter amenities.
Triple Outboard Power
750 horsepower from three outboard engines means a fast, efficient ride to the Tortugas and back. More power, more reliability, more confidence offshore.
Deep-Vee Offshore Hull
Contender's 24.5-degree deadrise hull is designed to slice through rough seas, not pound over them. Proven in tournament conditions and built to handle anything the Gulf throws at it.
T-Top Shade Coverage
A full T-top provides generous shade over the helm and main seating area. Essential sun protection for a full day on the water in the Florida Keys.
Wide Open Deck
The center console layout provides 360-degree access and a massive open cockpit. Plenty of room for 12 guests to move freely, fish, snorkel, or simply relax.
Swim Platform & Shower
Easy water access via the swim platform for snorkeling and swimming. An outdoor freshwater shower lets you rinse off before the ride home.
Bluetooth Sound System
Connect your phone and play your own music through the marine audio system. Set the vibe for a perfect day on the water.
Deck Layout & Capacity
Helm & Console Area
2–4 GuestsShaded seating around the center console and helm station. Protected by the T-top with clear visibility forward.
Forward Bow Area
4–6 GuestsSpacious forward seating and lounging area. Great for taking in the views on the ride out and relaxing at anchor.
Aft Cockpit
6–8 GuestsThe largest open area on the boat. Massive cockpit with easy access to the swim platform, coolers, and all the action.
Gunwale Seating
4–6 GuestsWide gunwales with rod holders and secure footing. Comfortable perching spots along the full length of the boat.
Gallery
Fort Jefferson at Dry Tortugas
Golden Hour on the Water
Snorkeling the Keys
Sandbar Stop Near Key West
Full Specifications
| Vessel Dimensions | |
| Length | 36 ft / 11 meters |
| Beam | 10 ft 2 in |
| Draft | 2 ft |
| Hull Type | Deep-Vee (24.5° deadrise) |
| Boat Style | Center Console (Open) |
| Performance | |
| Engines | Triple Outboards |
| Horsepower | 750 HP (3 x 250 HP) |
| Max Speed | 50+ mph |
| Cruise Speed | ~35 knots |
| Capacity | |
| Private Charter | Up to 12 guests + captain |
| Shared Trip | Up to 6 guests + captain |
| Amenities & Equipment | |
| Shade | Full T-top with rod holders |
| Shower | Outdoor freshwater rinse |
| Swim Platform | Integrated rear platform for easy water access |
| Audio | Bluetooth marine sound system |
| Fishing Gear | Rod holders, livewells, tackle storage |
| Restroom | No onboard restroom |
| Departure | |
| Departure | Key West, FL |
Charter the Contender 36
This charter offers two ways to experience the Dry Tortugas on this vessel: book the entire boat for your group, or reserve individual seats on a shared trip.
All charters include an expert captain with deep local knowledge of Key West and Dry Tortugas waters. Shared trips include fuel; private charters have fuel as a separate cost.
Private Charter
$2,500 / dayFull-day private trip to Dry Tortugas. Up to 12 guests. Fort Jefferson, snorkeling, and flexible itinerary. Fuel paid separately.
Book Private CharterShared Trip
$700 / seatReserve your seat on a shared full-day Dry Tortugas trip. Up to 6 guests per trip. Fuel included in the per-seat price.
Book a SeatOther Charters
Custom / quoteSandbar escapes, sunset cruises, snorkeling trips, light tackle fishing, or build a custom day on the water.
Request QuoteWhat's On Board
Expert Captain
Experienced captain from our partner network with extensive local knowledge of Key West and Dry Tortugas waters
Cooler & Ice
Coolers provided on the boat for your food and drinks. Bring whatever you like and we keep it cold all day
Snorkel Gear
Masks, snorkels, and fins available when requested for snorkeling at the park
Safety Equipment
Full USCG-required safety gear including life jackets and flotation for all ages
Bluetooth Sound System
Marine audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Play your own playlist throughout the trip
Freshwater Shower
Outdoor rinse-off shower on board so you can clean up after snorkeling before the ride home
National Park Guidance
Expert insight on Fort Jefferson history, best snorkel spots, and island exploration
Fishing Gear Available
Rod holders, livewells, and tackle storage on board. Light tackle fishing can be added to your charter
Good to Know
Private charters: Fuel is paid separately. We will confirm the estimated fuel cost based on your trip plan.
Shared trips ($700/seat): Fuel is included in the per-seat price.
All trips: Food, drinks, gratuity, and Dry Tortugas National Park entrance fees are not included. There is no restroom on board.
Not sure which boat is right? Request a custom quote and we'll match you with the perfect vessel for your Dry Tortugas adventure.