Yankee Freedom

Departing daily from Key West at 8am, the Yankee Freedom II, is one of two ferries that head out to the fantastic Dry Tortugas National Park. The Yankee Freedom is the newer and more luxurious of the two ferries. With your trip comes all snorkeling gear and equipment, breakfast, a buffet-style lunch, and a guided tour of historic Fort Jefferson.

The Dry Tortugas National Park features some of the most pristine and untouched nature in the United States. You are likely to see all kinds of tropical reef fish, turtles, stingrays, angelfish, and one of the largest varieties of seabirds in the country. The waters of the Tortugas are some of the clearest around, which makes spotting the sea life way easier. On the first half of your trip, you will be able to enjoy the fantastic snorkeling that can be done out on the islands. Unlike other snorkeling trips offered in Key West, you can actually snorkel right off the sandy beach. At the Dry Tortugas, the coral reef gardens are just feet away from the shore! You can literally swim to them and start your snorkeling.

The trip also features an informative guided tour of Fort Jefferson, the massive brick structure located on Garden Key. The fort was never actually used (since by the time construction was finished, military equipment had advanced, making the set-up virtually obsolete), but it was used for various reasons throughout the decades, including a stint as a military prison during the Civil War.

The Yankee Freedom II will provide you with a comfortable ride, complete with a galley and bar for purchase of food and drinks on the return trip. The upper deck is open to the sea air and sights and sounds of marine life. There is spacious shaded and unshaded sundeck seating with areas to stretch out and enjoy the sunshine and the view.

Tour Highlights