Visting Dry Tortugas National Park
So where is Dry Tortugas anyway? And how did such a unique national treasure get such a strange name? Tucked about 70 miles off the coast of Key West, FL, Dry Tortugas National Park is a actually group of islands (actually more like islets, they are so small) known for its sea turtles. A portion of its unique name is explained by the fact that the Spanish word for turtles is tortugas.
But what makes it dry, given that Dry Tortugas National Park is surrounded by the waters of the crystal clear blue Caribbean? The name was derived from the Spaniards - when they settled the islets, they soon discovered that there were no fresh water springs. So the islands came eventually to be called the Dry Tortugas, or “dry turtles.” To this day, as a major tourist attraction, boaters and tour operators must bring in their own water for visitors.
First designated a National Monument by FDR, the Dry Tortugas islets were named a National Park in 1992 at the tail end of George H. W. Bush’s term. The home of the previously unfinished Civil War era Fort Jefferson, a brick structure later used as a prison to house accused conspirators in President Lincoln’s assassination, the strip of sandy beaches and shallow, colorful reefs has become a destination for 80,000 tourists each year. All leave this national treasure in amazement at its fascinating history involving its original intent to be a fortress against the real Caribbean pirates.
Tourists now can experience many interesting and fun activities in Dry Tortugas National Park, from the tour of historical Ft. Jefferson, to sunning on the sandy beaches, to a memorable snorkeling trip to see the diverse sea life.
Of course, the only access to the island is by boat of sea plan. So if you want to book a trip, a Dry Tortugas charter will be necessary. There are some great discounts available on Dry Tortugas charters, Key West hotels, Key West snorkeling, and other recreation packages at Gold Card Key West.