Enjoy a fantastic excursion from Key West, Florida, to the splendid Dry Tortugas National Park where you can enjoy a historical tour of Fort Jefferson, dine on a tasty picnic lunch, and explore the pristine environment by snorkeling or hiking. The Yankee Freedom III, your transportation to the Dry Tortugas, is not your typical ferry. The speed and comfort of this vessel is unmatched by any vessel that currently operates from Key West. There is no feeling quite like standing on the deck of the Yankee Freedom III as it zooms across the cerulean waters. The refreshing sea air, ample sunshine, and panoramic seascape will provide you with an idyllic setting on your trip out to the Tortugas.
The Yankee Freedom III offers the epitome of comfort, especially for families with younger children or elderly members; the roomy interior cabin is climate controlled with air conditioning, has plenty of comfortable seating, and was designed with three restrooms. The fresh-water shower is popular with snorkelers who would like to rinse off the sand and saltwater after some aquatic activity. You wont go hungry or thirsty on this tour either; the ship has a cantina that serves a selection of snacks, and beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. You can sip a cocktail on deck in the tropical sunshine.
Once you arrive at your destination of Dry Tortugas National Park, youll be able to enjoy a guided and narrated tour of Fort Jefferson at Garden Key. You will be given the option of joining a 40 minute tour of the fort with a friendly guide. After a scrumptious picnic lunch you can participate in some water-sports. We will supply you with the proper gear to go snorkeling above the teeming coral reefs of the area. Nature enthusiasts can also explore the isle, looking for sea birds and other interesting plant and animal life.
What is the weather cancellation policy?
If the activity must be cancelled due to bad weather, and you cannot reschedule, you will be issued a full refund.
Where is the departure point for this tour?
Check-in instructions will be included in your activity confirmation email.
Where can I park?
Parking is available in the City Parking Garage on Grinnell Street, across the corner from the Ferry Terminal. The garage provides shaded parking for $18/day. There is no free parking available in Key West.
Are vehicles allowed on the Ferry?
No vehicles are allowed, we only transport people.
How much time do we spend at Fort Jefferson?
About 4 - 5 hours.
What time will we arrive back into Key West?
Return time to Key West is between 5:00 pm & 5:30 pm.
Can we bring a small cooler?
You are allowed to bring a small cooler with beverages to take to the beach, however alcoholic beverages are not allowed. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased on board the Yankee Freedom III
Will I get seasick during the boat ride?
Most passengers will not get sick, however if you are prone to motion sickness we recommend that you purchase medication that can relieve motion sickness.
Are there restaurants or gift shops at Fort Jefferson?
Unfortunately there are no restaurants at the Dry Tortugas, however there is a visitor center and a book store. Breakfast and Lunch is provided for you on this trip. You can purchase additional snacks and food items at the galley on board the ferry.
Are ID’s or passports necessary before boarding?
Passports are not necessary to board the boat, however all adults must show a valid photo id at check in.
What is provided for lunch?
Our lunch is a picnic-style lunch with sandwich bread, deli meats, cheeses and toppings to make your own sandwich. We also provide various sides such as potato salad and pasta salad.
Is the ferry wheel chair accessible?
We can accommodate people confined to a wheelchair. We ask that people in wheelchairs check in earlier than other passengers (at about 6:45AM) in order for us to make the proper accommodations. At the national park, much, but not all, of the areas are wheelchair accessible/
It is your responsibility to make sure you are aware of and understand all restrictions pertaining to this tour before booking online or over the phone. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are medically qualified and within any limits listed below in order to participate in this activity. No refunds will be given to those who reserve a spot and can not participate due to the restrictions listed below. For more information please read our cancellation policy and terms and conditions page or call our staff with any questions regarding your ability to participate.
The last day of each month will not be operational for our monthy maintenance, to ensure smooth sailing.
PLEASE NOTE: There are many dates that are already sold out during this season. Spaces for the Yankee Freedom ferry out to the Dry Tortugas are highly limited, especially during busier times of the year. We strongly encourage you to call to check availability before booking.
*Price Match not valid on this tour
Key West Visitor Guide is always interested in your tour experience with us. We hope you enjoyed your tour and love to hear comments.
I have been to the Bahamas many times, but Yankee Freedom is one of my favorite trips! It includes everything that everyone should do here. As a Bahamas veteran, I can say only the best about this experience!
Thanks to the professional guides! I was a bit worried about kayaking because I had never done it before, but the instructions were great and I had such a good time!
The best way to discover nature! ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)