A stunning group of coral islands 60 miles off Key West, only accessible by boat or seaplane.

The name comes from “tortugas”, referring to the then abundance of nesting sea turtles on the islands, with the word “Dry” added later to indicate to sailors that there was no water here.

The main island is home to the amazing brick construction of Fort Jefferson, built to protect young America’s shipping routes from the Spanish and then the English. It was later used as a prison for civil war deserters.

The islands have been called “the Galapagos of north America” because of the diversity of wildlife. While snorkeling – in perfectly clear water - you can see sharks, rays, hundreds of types of tropical fish and spectacular coral formations. Many rare birds, including masked boobies, sooty terns and frigate birds, only nest on or visit these islands.

Turtles lay their eggs here too, and you can occasionally see them popping their heads up above the surface.

There are two boat services and a seaplane to choose from.

We went on the Yankee Freedom ferry, which costs $139 per person, and includes breakfast, lunch, cold drinks and all snorkelling gear.

You can also camp on the island.

Yankee Freedom ferries: www.yankeefreedom.com/

Dry Tortugas
www.nps.gov/drto/

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