My wife and I recently visited Dry Tortugas National Park, and it was an unforgettable experience! This remote and beautiful park is located 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, and is accessible only by boat or seaplane. We took a ferry from Key West, which was a great adventure in itself.
The ferry ride took about 2 hours and 30 minutes. We saw amazing views of the ocean and many small islands along the way. The ferry staff was friendly and shared helpful information. They also served us a delicious breakfast and lunch during the trip. The food was fresh and tasty, and the prices were very reasonable.
We reached Dry Tortugas National Park. We saw Fort Jefferson right away. It’s a big coastal fort from the Civil War. The fort is made of brick. It sits by clear water. Many colorful fish and other sea creatures live there. We took a self-guided tour of the fort and learned about its history and significance.
After exploring Fort Jefferson, we decided to go snorkeling in the waters surrounding the fort. The water was warm and inviting, and we saw some amazing coral formations and fish. We even saw a few sea turtles, which was a real treat! The snorkeling equipment was included in the price of the ferry ticket, which was a great value.
We also took a guided tour of the park’s historic Garden Key, which is home to several old buildings and structures. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and provided us with some interesting insights into the park’s history and ecology. We learned about the park’s unique ecosystem and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
One of the highlights of our trip was the amazing sunset that we witnessed over the ocean. The sky was filled with vibrant colors, and we took some truly breathtaking photos. We also saw several birds, including pelicans and frigatebirds, which were fascinating to watch.
When it was time to leave, we were sad to say goodbye to Dry Tortugas National Park. However, we were grateful for the amazing experience that we had and the memories that we created.
If you’re planning a trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:
- Bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent, as the sun can be very strong and there are mosquitoes in the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the fort and the park.
- Bring a water bottle, as it can get hot and there are no drinking fountains in the park.
- If you’re planning to snorkel, bring a towel and a change of clothes.
- Take plenty of photos, as the scenery is truly breathtaking.
- Respect the park’s rules and regulations, as they are in place to protect the park’s unique ecosystem.
In conclusion, Dry Tortugas National Park is a magical place that is definitely worth a visit. The stunning scenery, rich history, and unique ecosystem make it a truly unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!