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- I spent $220 to take a ferry to a remote oasis near the Florida Keys. The ride had drawbacks but was well worth it. (businessinsider.com)
Key West to Dry Tortugas: A Ferry Tale Worth the Trip (and the $220)
As a newbie Floridian, I’m on a mission to uncover the Sunshine State’s hidden treasures. Dry Tortugas National Park, 70 miles off the coast of Key West, seemed like the perfect off-the-grid adventure.
Getting there is half the battle (boat or seaplane only!), but I’d heard it was worth the effort. So, my husband and I booked a round-trip journey on the Yankee Freedom III ferry.
For $220 per person, we got transportation, breakfast and lunch, park admission, and all taxes and fees. Here’s the lowdown on our experience:
We arrived at the Key West ferry terminal, a large green building by the dock, on a blustery morning. Rough seas prompted the ferry company to offer an “option day” – a full refund for anyone wanting to skip the trip.
But we were determined! Armed with $1 Dramamine tablets from the terminal (a lifesaver!), we boarded at 7:30 a.m.
A friendly tour guide gave us a rundown of the trip, including food options, passing islands, and Dry Tortugas highlights.
The ferry itself was a pleasant surprise – spacious, clean, and air-conditioned with two levels: a main indoor cabin and an upper deck with sunbathing potential. Seating was open, with tables for eight.
While there was no WiFi and cell service disappeared 30 minutes in, the ferry provided music and Dry Tortugas videos. Our guide also shared interesting facts about the islands we passed.
Breakfast, included in the ticket price, was a buffet-style feast with bagels, cereal, yogurt, fruit, coffee, tea, and juice. Mid-trip, the crew asked everyone to remain seated due to rough seas.
While we felt fine, many passengers succumbed to seasickness. The crew, however, was phenomenal, swiftly distributing sick bags, ginger ale, and ice packs.
Their genuine care and professionalism were truly commendable.
Around 10:30 a.m., we docked at Dry Tortugas National Park. Our guide offered a tour of Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century fort, included in the ticket price.
We opted for independent exploration, walking through the fort’s ground floor, climbing to the top for breathtaking views, and strolling along the moat wall surrounded by dazzling blue waters. We also found time to relax on a truly stunning beach.
Back on the boat, lunch consisted of subs, chips, pretzels, veggies, cookies, and drinks. We chose to eat in the air-conditioned cabin, but picnicking outside was an option. The galley also opened a bar selling alcoholic beverages and additional food like pizza and burgers.
Despite the rough seas, the trip was worth every penny. Exploring Dry Tortugas National Park, enjoying two meals, and learning from the onboard guide made for a memorable adventure. I highly recommend this trip to anyone seeking a unique and beautiful escape.