Key West Seaplane to Dry Tortugas National Park
Are you up for a real adventure- a Key West seaplane ride to Dry Tortugas National Park?
Dry Tortugas National Park is located about 70 miles west of Key West and is considered one of the most remote national parks in the United States. The park is only accessible by boat or seaplane. Today, I’m sharing all the details and tales from my recent visit to Dry Tortugas by seaplane so you can plan your Key West adventure!
Key West Seaplane Tour to Dry Tortugas National Park
I’ll be honestโI was pretty nervous about flying in such a small plane. No exaggeration. The plane only seats twelve people, including the pilot. The winds were up, and the takeoff was a bit rough. I’m sure the look on my face was priceless. But my worries melted away once we got in the air about 500 feet above the ocean. The views of Key West and the ocean were simply unbelievable.
Flying to Dry Tortugas feels like stepping into a storybook. As the plane lifts off from the Key West shoreline, you can feel the thrill of adventure. The views are amazingโexpansive seascapes stretch below, dotted with lush green keys and the occasional shipwreck. It’s like looking down at a beautiful mosaic of history and natural beauty.
Key West Seaplane Adventures provides headsets, allowing the pilot to point out sights along the way. You’ll fly over the shallow, aquamarine waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Each passenger has a window seat, too! From the air, you can easily spot a shipwreck, turtles, sharks, and other points of interest. Keep your camera ready; the aerial views are perfect for capturing those breathtaking moments!
As you approach Dry Tortugas, it is impossible not to spot Fort Jefferson. Before landing, our pilot circled the island so everyone on board could enjoy a birds-eye view. Then, it was time to land on water, a first-time experience for my husband and me.
Discover Dry Tortugas by Seaplane
To my surprise, our water landing was much smoother than expected. Now, it’s time to explore Dry Tortugas National Park! The park offers many things to do during your time on the island, including:
Snorkeling and Swimming: Dry Tortugas has some of the best snorkeling in the Florida Keys. Along the fort’s walls, you can spot colorful fish, coral, and other marine life. We saw a huge barracuda! If you fly into Dry Tortugas before the ferry arrives, take advantage of it and snorkel before the crowds arrive.
Key West Seaplane Adventures provides snorkel gear to all passengers, so if you don’t have gear or prefer to use theirs, you’re all set. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or trying it for the first time, the underwater sights are truly unforgettable. You should give it a try.
If snorkeling isn’t your thing, no worries. Enjoy some beach time instead.
Explore Fort Jefferson: During your time at the park, you can take a guided tour or enjoy a self-guided tour. Walk through the fort’s arched corridors and large courtyard and learn more about its history and the people who lived and worked there.
Picnicking: After exploring, relax on the pristine white sand beaches. You’ll also find picnic tables scattered around the island. No food or drinks are available for purchase on the island, so pack a picnic lunch in advance. Key West Seaplane Adventures provides a cooler with water and soft drinks for your trip. The peaceful surroundings make an excellent spot for a picnic.
Birdwatching: Dry Tortugas is a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially during the spring and fall migrations: spot sooty terns, frigate birds, and other seabirds. If you enjoy birdwatching, make sure to bring binoculars!
Dry Tortugas Seaplane: How to Book Your Adventure
Ready to make this dream a reality? Here’s how you can book your seaplane adventure to Dry Tortugas National Park:
- Key West Seaplane Charters: Only one approved tour operator can fly into Dry Tortugas National Park: Key West Seaplane Adventures. They have an excellent reputation and multiple flights daily, and it was a top-notch experience from start to finish. Kris was our pilot for the day, and he was fantastic. I even got to ride up front as the co-pilot on the way back!
- Book in Advance: Seaplane tours to Dry Tortugas are incredibly popular, and spots fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. It’s a good idea to book your trip well in advance to secure your place. I booked our June trip in March three months in advance, and even then, the early morning trip was sold out. We love spontaneous trips and adventures, too, but this isn’t something you can decide to do at the last minute. Book in advance!
- Dry Tortugas Seaplane Cost: Prices are subject to change, but currently, they are $466 per person for a four-hour trip and $819 for a full-day trip. The four-hour trip was the perfect amount of time for us to explore, snorkel, and relax. A National Park entrance fee of $15 per person is also required. National Park Passes, Golden Eagle, Golden Age, and Golden Access Passports are honored.
- Prepare for the Day: On the day of your adventure, dress comfortably and pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, and snacks. Key West Seaplane Adventures provides water and snorkel gear, but it’s up to you to bring other essential supplies.
- Dry Tortugas Flight: Enjoy the journey! Arrive at the seaplane base thirty minutes early to check in and meet your pilot. Once you’re airborne, sit back, relax, and take in the stunning views. Remember, this journey is as much about the experience as the destination.
So, why wait? Step out of your routine and embrace adventure with a seaplane trip to Dry Tortugas. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or want to enjoy a unique adventure, this unforgettable experience promises to be a highlight of your travels. Book your seaplane adventure today!
