Cruise in spacious comfort to Fort Jefferson aboard the Official Dry Tortugas National Park Ferry - the Yankee Freedom. A high-speed catamaran, our vessel transports guests 70 miles from Key West to the Park.
Board the Yankee Freedom for a ferry ride to The Dry Tortugas National Park
Made up of seven small islands, it is one of the world’s most unique eco-attractions. Its crown jewel, the historic Fort Jefferson, was once used as a prison during the Civil War. Explore and learn of its history with one of our
guides and enjoy an array of activities. There’s something for everyone! Book Now and Explore Uncharted Territory at the Dry Tortugas National Park!
"One of the 10 great places to explore nooks and crevasses" – USA Today
"One of the top 10 things to do in the Florida Keys" – Islands Magazine
"One of the coolest things to do in Key West" – Rachael Ray Magazine
During your voyage, you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Marquesa Islands, Boca Grande. Here are some of our suggestions on what to bring to make your trip memorable!
Comfortable footwear
A hat
A bathing suit
Sunglasses
Towels
Change of dry clothes
Sunscreen
A camera
Light jacket/sweatshirt
Something to read
National Park Pass
WHAT NOT TO BRING
Pets (except certified assistant dogs)
Flammable accelerants
Compressed gas canisters
Firearms of any type
Aerial Drones
Where to board
Itinerary
Check in time: 7:00 am (campers 6:30am)
Boarding time: 7:30 am
Departure time: 8:00 am
Arrive at Fort Jefferson: 10:15 am*
Fort Jefferson Tour: 11:00 am
Lunch: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Depart: 3:00 pm
Arrive in Key West: 5:15 pm*
*Times may vary depending on weather
Included with trip
Breakfast and Lunch (campers, arrival day only)
Complimentary snorkeling equipment
Beach walk, snorkel, swim, or just relax in the sun
Fully narrated 45 minute tour of the fort
Ticket includes entrance fee to Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson
Awesome boat ride
Covid-19 Response
The Yankee Freedom has resumed normal capacity daily scheduled service to the Dry Tortugas. We are still following CDC recommended safety guidelines, including:
Yankee Freedom passengers have the option of joining a 40-minute guided tour of the fort led by one of our expert naturalists. You’ll hear captivating stories about the fort, its remarkable history and its surroundings.
If you love Key West snorkeling, then Dry Tortugas National Park offers some of the best snorkeling and skin diving in North America, just 70 miles from Key West and the Florida Keys. The shallow waters (5-15 feet) make snorkeling at the Dry Tortugas fun for everyone.
No Key West beach trip is complete without visiting the best beach in the Florida Keys: Fort Jefferson Dry Tortugas National Park, located just 70 miles west of Key West. Whether swimming, sun bathing or just plain strolling, you will enjoy the crystal blue waters, swaying palm trees and soft, powdery sand of this island paradise. These beautiful, pristine beaches are a Key West attraction not to be missed. LEARN MORE
Birding
Birding
The seven tiny islands of Dry Tortugas are a vital layover for migrating birds traveling between South America and the United States making a staple in the Great Florida Birding Trail.
Camping in the Dry Tortugas National Park is definitely an experience of a lifetime! Imagine sleeping under the stars, on an island 70 miles from civilization, with the warm tropical breezes blowing through palm trees.
