Dry Tortugas Navigation
Captain's Packing List | Dry Tortugas Charter

The Captain's Packing List

After 500+ trips, here's what actually matters

Skip the overpacking. These are the essentials that'll make your Dry Tortugas trip comfortable—and what you can leave at the hotel.

If you forget everything else, don't forget these. Seriously—I've seen too many lobster-red tourists to stay quiet about it.

1

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen. Regular sunscreen kills the coral you're coming to see. Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide on the label.

↳ Apply 30 min before departure—you'll forget once we're moving!
2

Your Lunch

There's no restaurant at Fort Jefferson. No snack bar. No vending machine. Just 70 miles of ocean between you and the nearest sandwich.

↳ Pack more than you think. Ocean air = serious appetite.
3

A Wide-Brim Hat

Baseball caps leave your ears and neck exposed. After a full day in tropical sun, you'll understand why I'm insistent about this.

↳ Bonus points if it has a chin strap for the boat ride.

Sun Protection

← UV index hits 11+ out here
Reef-Safe Sunscreen SPF 30+ mineral formula (zinc oxide)
Wide-Brim Hat Protects face, ears, neck
Polarized Sunglasses Cuts glare off the water
Lip Balm with SPF Lips burn fast—don't skip this
Rash Guard / Swim Shirt Best protection while snorkeling
Light Cover-Up For exploring the fort
Captain's Tip

"Wear your swimsuit under your clothes. Changing rooms at Fort Jefferson? Non-existent."

Food & Drinks

← We have ice. You bring the rest.
Packed Lunch Sandwiches, wraps—nothing that needs heating
Extra Snacks Granola bars, fruit, trail mix
Reusable Water Bottle We have water & ice—bring something to fill
Electrolyte Packets Gatorade, Liquid IV, whatever works
Real Talk

"I've seen grown adults get genuinely hangry by 2pm because they packed 'light.' The ocean makes you hungry. Pack double what you think."

Clothing & Comfort

Water Shoes For coral, hot sand, and boat ladder
Dry Clothes for Return One set—that's all you need
Light Towel Quick-dry travel towels work great
Soft-Sided Bag Easier to stow than hard luggage

Tech & Extras

← Optional but nice to have
Underwater Camera GoPro or waterproof phone case
Dry Bag Keep phone & wallet safe
Binoculars For birding—this place is incredible
Book or Cards For the boat ride out

Health & Meds

Motion Sickness Meds Take 30-60 min before departure
Any Prescriptions You're 70 miles from a pharmacy
Basic First Aid Band-aids, pain relievers
On Motion Sickness

"Even if you 'never get seasick,' take Dramamine. The Gulf can surprise you. Non-drowsy formula + ginger chews = smooth sailing."

What Most Charters Provide

Amenities vary by boat—confirm with your captain

✓ Snorkel gear (mask, fins, snorkel)
✓ Cooler with ice
✓ Drinking water
✓ Freshwater rinse (most boats)
✓ Shade & covered seating
✓ Fishing gear (some boats)
✓ Safety equipment & first aid

✕ Leave Behind

✕ Glass containers (prohibited in park)
✕ Drones (require special permit)
✕ Hard-sided luggage
✕ Expensive jewelry
✕ More than one change of clothes
✕ Non-reef-safe sunscreen
✕ Pets (not allowed)
✕ Anything you can't get wet

Got Your List?

Now let's get you on the water.

Book Your Charter
Dry Tortugas Footer