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HISTORY...
The Dry Tortugas National Park is located 70 miles west of Key West. It consists of seven
tiny islands and the surrounding waters. When Ponce De Leon originally
discovered these islands he named them “Las Tortugas” (meaning “the
turtles” in Spanish) because of the abundance of sea turtles. Even though
hunting drastically reduced their numbers, many varieties of the species are
still present in the area.
Located on one of those islands, Garden Key,
is historic Fort Jefferson. Built in the mid-1800’s, with over 16
million bricks, this is America’s largest coastal fort. Originally
constructed to protect the important Gulf of Mexico shipping lanes, Fort
Jefferson was used as a military prison during the Civil War. During
this time, it was “home” to Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was convicted of
complicity in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.
BIRDWATCHING...
John James Audubon first visited the Dry Tortugas in 1832. The area was made
a marine sanctuary in 1908. Every year, between March and September,
some 100,000 sooty terns gather on Bush Key for their nesting season.
Throughout the year magnificent frigate birds, brown pelicans,
double-crested cormorants, and many varieties of land and water birds
can be spotted.
SNORKELING...
Directly accessible from the beaches are the Fort Jefferson snorkeling
areas. The shallow waters (5-15 feet) make this area perfect for
beginners and experts. You will see colorful corals, many varieties of
tropical fish, starfish, queen conchs, and much more in this protected
marine sanctuary.
CAMPING...
A camping trip at the Dry Tortugas National Park is an unforgettable
experience. The Sunny Days Key West FAST CAT can provide transportation
for up to six camping passengers to the park every morning at 8 a.m.
To learn more about the Camping
Rules and Regulations at the Dry Tortugas, as well as aboard the
Fast Cat, please follow these links:
Dry Tortugas National Park
Fast Cat Guidelines for Campers
Sunny Days "Fast Cat
II"
We get you there faster than any other boat!

About Our Boat...
Launched in May 1999, the "Fast Cat II" is a high
speed power catamaran. The cool air conditioned cabin provides comfortable indoor seating.
A rear sundeck is available for outdoor seating. The innovative wave piercing design means
a smoother, more pleasant ride. Dramatically fewer people experience motion sickness on
catamarans. The "Fast Cat II" is a one-of-a-kind design. Come experience the
difference...
What to expect:
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2 hours of travel time, each way.
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4 1/2 hours at Fort Jefferson.
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Continental breakfast
upon boarding.
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A tour of the Fort by one of our knowledgeable guides upon arrival.
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Buffet lunch served in the picnic area of Fort Jefferson.
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Complimentary soft drinks, water & iced tea throughout the day.
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Snorkel gear.
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Freshwater rinse on board.
Trip departs at 8
AM.
Check in no later than 7:30 AM!
Return by 5pm
| Rates for Dry Tortugas Trip |
| Age Group |
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| Adult |
$125.00 |
Children
(age 16 and under) |
$85.00 |
Seniors (age
62+)
Students &
Active Military (with valid I.D.) |
$115.00 |
| Price includes continental breakfast, buffet lunch, soft drinks,
water, snorkeling gear and a guided tour of the Fort. Prices effective 6/1/08 |
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