The Dry Tortugas is a great place for kids to have fun while discovering and learning about nature and history at the same time! There are many activities on the island and in the water. You can snorkel the majestic and colorful reefs off the shores of the island, observe the park’s unique birds and wildlife, explore Fort Jefferson and the moat surrounding it, and much more. Your adventure begins as you cruise to Fort Jefferson Dry Tortugas National Park aboard the Yankee Freedom II, the fastest, largest, and newest high-speed Ferry in Key West. The boat’s galley serves snacks and soft drinks, and also sells film and souvenirs. As you enjoy the ride, keep an eye out for turtles and dolphins while you listen to one of our naturalists tell fun and fact filled legends of Fort Jefferson. You may even hear a tale or two about the pirates that sailed the very waters you will be sailing on your way to the Dry Tortugas…Arggh!!

If you have ever wondered where the name “Dry Tortugas” came from, you’ve come to the right place! When Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon discovered the island in 1513 he was amazed by the amount of sea turtles he saw, they were everywhere! He decided to name the island after the magnificent animals and gave the island the name “Las Tortugas” which is Spanish for “the turtles.” Despite its beauty and abundance of nature, fresh water was scare on the island, and the word “dry” was added to the name to warn sailors and visitors that they needed to bring their own fresh water to drink. But don’t worry, the Yankee Freedom II will provide you with plenty of food, water and other beverages on your trip to the Dry Tortugas!

The entire park is about 100 square miles and mostly underwater, but Fort Jefferson located on Garden Key is plenty of space for fun and exploration. In the waters surrounding Garden Key you will find a vibrant intact coral reef system, tons of colorful tropical fish, many species of birds, and of course Loggerhead and Green Sea Turtles! On land you will be able to explore Fort Jefferson with one of Yankee Freedom’s naturalists, and learn about its history before, during, and after the civil war. Fort Jefferson was built in 1846 and two historic lighthouses, which you can also visit, guard its reefs. The Dry Tortugas is also home to over 200 shipwrecks, so if you happen to discover a washed-up artifact, don’t touch it and remember to tell a park ranger. Your discovery may make it to your local museum!