[ad_1]
The distant park off Florida’s coast boasts crystalline waters teeming with vibrant marine life amid protected coral reefs. Almost the whole park is open water, however there are seven small islands, which give protected harbor for endangered and threatened sea turtles, uncommon birds, and different species.
The park can be dwelling to a wealthy historical past courting again to Ponce de Leon within the sixteenth century.
Right here’s what vacationers ought to find out about Dry Tortugas National Park, the most recent in USA TODAY’s yearlong parks sequence.
12 months after 12 months, Dry Tortugas ranks amongst America’s least visited national parks, nevertheless it’s not for lack of sights.
What’s particular about Dry Tortugas?
Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park spans 100 sq. miles, 99% of that are water. It is a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon got here throughout the islands in 1513 and dubbed them Las Tortugas, which means the turtles, after seeing all sea turtles there, in response to the Nationwide Park Service. The Park Service mentioned the islands would go on to be a strategic location for Spanish explorers between the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean.
The realm was nonetheless strategic within the nineteenth century when the U.S. Military constructed Fort Jefferson there. Whereas it was by no means accomplished nor attacked, the park mentioned “the fort fulfilled its meant position. It helped to guard the peace and prosperity of a younger nation.” It is now an iconic park landmark.
The place are the Dry Tortugas situated?
Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park lies roughly 70 miles west of Key West.
The closest airport is Key West Worldwide Airport, nevertheless it’s nonetheless a trek from there to the distant park.
Why is Dry Tortugas not visited?
Dry Tortugas isn’t simple to get to. It’s solely accessible by boat or seaplane, neither of which come low-cost.
The park noticed simply under 78,500 visitors in 2022, in comparison with almost 13 million guests at America’s most visited national park, Nice Smoky Mountains.
Ferry or seaplane? How do you get to the Dry Tortugas?
The park has partnerships with The Yankee Freedom Ferry and Key West Seaplane Adventures.
A number of third get together charter tours are additionally out there with various charges.
Private boats are additionally allowed, however require a free boat permit.
Biscayne is in contrast to different nationwide parks:What visitors need to know
Why is Dry Tortugas so costly?
The park itself isn’t costly. Entry prices $15 for guests age 16 and up and is free for any youngsters youthful than that.
What is costly is the transportation. Day journeys on the ferry at $200 whereas half-day seaplane excursions price $451 for vacationers over age 12.
[ad_2]