We've been running charters to Dry Tortugas for years. Here's what first-timers (and repeat visitors) always want to know.
Jump to booking questions
Travel time varies depending on the vessel and conditions. Most private charters take approximately 2-3 hours each way from Key West to Fort Jefferson at Garden Key. Some faster boats can make the crossing in under 2 hours, while others take closer to 3. Your captain will confirm the expected travel time when you book.
The ride itself is part of the adventure—you'll often spot dolphins, sea turtles, and seabirds along the way.
Time at the fort depends on your charter type and travel time. Full-day charters typically allow 4-6 hours to explore Fort Jefferson, snorkel, swim, and relax. This is more than the Yankee Freedom ferry, which gives passengers about 4.5 hours on the island.
Trust me, you'll want that extra time. Between exploring the fort, snorkeling the moat wall, and having lunch on the beach—4 hours goes fast.
The experience is dramatically different. Here's the honest breakdown:
Most charters depart from Key West, Florida—typically from the Historic Seaport or nearby marinas. Your captain will share the exact location in your confirmation. There's usually paid parking available nearby, and we recommend arriving 15-20 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Charter prices vary depending on the boat, trip duration, and group size. Full-day private charters typically range from $2,500-$4,000+ for the entire boat. Contact us for specific pricing based on your group's needs.
For larger groups, we can arrange multi-boat charters with potentially discounted per-person rates.
Amenities vary by boat, so confirm details when you book. Most charters include:
Typically included: Snorkel gear (mask, fins, snorkel), cooler with ice, drinking water, shade and covered seating, safety equipment, and first aid kit. Some boats offer freshwater rinse showers and fishing gear.
NOT included: National Park entrance fee ($15/person, paid at the fort), lunch, snacks, and drinks. See our packing list for what to bring.
As early as possible. We have limited availability, especially during peak season (November through May). Weekends and holidays often book 2-3 months in advance.
That said, we occasionally have last-minute openings due to cancellations. It never hurts to call and ask.
Cancellation policies vary by charter operator. A typical policy looks like:
14+ days before: Full refund minus a small processing fee
7-13 days before: 50% refund or full credit toward a future trip
Less than 7 days: No refund, but full credit toward rescheduling
If we cancel due to weather (it happens—safety first), you get a full refund or can reschedule at no extra cost. Confirm the specific policy when you book.
More than you might expect for a remote island! Most visitors spend their time:
Exploring Fort Jefferson — Walk the ramparts, peek into casemates, learn about Dr. Mudd, and photograph the incredible architecture. Budget 1-2 hours minimum.
Snorkeling — The water around the fort is crystal clear with abundant marine life. The moat wall is perfect for beginners; more experienced snorkelers can explore the outer reefs.
Beach time — There's a small beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and lunch with a view.
Wildlife watching — Sea turtles, rays, tropical fish, and during spring, thousands of nesting sooty terns on nearby Bush Key.
Yes! The moat wall around Fort Jefferson is one of the best beginner snorkeling spots in Florida. The water is calm, shallow (4-8 feet), and protected. You can literally step off the beach and be surrounded by fish within seconds.
Most charters provide flotation devices for anyone who wants extra comfort in the water. Your crew is happy to give tips and guidance too.
Yes—Fort Jefferson has restroom facilities near the dock area. They're basic (composting toilets) but clean and functional. Some charter boats also have a marine head (toilet) for your convenience during the ride—confirm with your captain when booking.
No. There's no cell service at Dry Tortugas—and honestly, that's part of the appeal. Consider it a digital detox day. We recommend downloading any maps, music, or podcasts before you leave Key West.
Some guests initially panic about no service. By the end of the day, they tell me it was the most relaxed they've felt in months.
Most charters provide snorkel gear (mask, fins, snorkel) for every guest at no extra charge. Equipment is typically well-maintained and sanitized between trips.
That said, if you have prescription goggles or a favorite mask that fits your face perfectly, feel free to bring it.
There's no food for sale at Dry Tortugas. You need to bring everything you want to eat and drink for the day (most boats provide drinking water).
Our recommendations: sandwiches or wraps (nothing that needs heating), fruit, chips, granola bars, and plenty of water or sports drinks. Many guests grab takeout from a Key West restaurant the night before.
Most boats have a cooler with ice on board to keep everything cold.
Dress for a beach day with some walking:
Swimsuit — Wear it under your clothes; no changing rooms at the fort
Light cover-up — For exploring the fort (it's mostly exposed to sun)
Comfortable shoes — Water shoes or sandals with straps for the boat and beach; sneakers if you want to walk the fort ramparts
Hat and sunglasses — Non-negotiable. The sun is intense.
Safety is always the top priority. If conditions are unsafe for the crossing, the trip will be cancelled and you'll receive a full refund or reschedule at no extra cost.
The call is made based on wind speed, wave height, and overall sea conditions—typically by early morning on the day of your trip. Captains always communicate early so you can adjust your plans.
Light rain usually doesn't stop trips (and often clears by the time you arrive). Thunderstorms, high winds, or rough seas will.
Some do, especially if you're prone to motion sickness. The ride to Dry Tortugas is 70 miles of open ocean, and conditions can vary.
Our advice: Take Dramamine or Bonine the night before AND the morning of your trip (follow package directions). Ginger candies can also help. Sit toward the back of the boat and keep your eyes on the horizon.
Most guests do fine, and the smooth days are absolutely beautiful.
Yes, but they're not a concern. You might spot nurse sharks (docile bottom-dwellers) resting under ledges, and occasionally small reef sharks in deeper water. They're not interested in humans.
In years of running charters, there have been no shark-related incidents. The bigger "danger" is getting sunburned!
Yes. The Dry Tortugas National Park entrance fee is $15 per person and is typically NOT included in charter prices. You'll pay at the fort when you arrive. Cash is recommended as card processing can be unreliable.
Yes! Garden Key has a small campground with 8-10 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping is an incredible experience—imagine having Fort Jefferson almost to yourself at sunset and sunrise.
We can drop you off with your gear and pick you up on a later date. Contact us to arrange a camping charter.
Fort Jefferson is the largest masonry structure in the Americas—16 million bricks built over 30 years starting in 1846. It was designed to protect Gulf shipping lanes but was never completed and never saw combat.
Its most famous resident was Dr. Samuel Mudd, imprisoned for treating John Wilkes Booth's broken leg after Lincoln's assassination. He later earned a pardon by treating yellow fever victims during an outbreak.
We have a detailed history page if you want to learn more before your visit: Fort Jefferson History
We're happy to help—no question is too small