Compare the private boats that make the Dry Tortugas run.
Explore Dry Tortugas is built for visitors who want more flexibility than a scheduled Garden Key trip. Ferry and seaplane passengers arrive at Garden Key, while private boats and permitted charters can offer more flexibility to explore other areas of the park when conditions and park rules allow.
Reel Paradise Charters
36' Contender with triple Suzuki 350s. Private full-day Dry Tortugas trips from Key West. Explore Dry Tortugas is affiliated with Reel Paradise, so it is disclosed and featured first.
37' Midnight Express
37' Midnight Express private-charter option with a large open deck and premium ride.
Private Dive & Snorkel Charter
Private and public/per-person Dry Tortugas scuba and snorkeling options on six-passenger dive boats, with an in-water Divemaster on dive trips.
32' Intrepid 323
32' Intrepid private-charter and small-group option with a private head, freshwater shower and shade. Current Dry Tortugas trips are listed as 10 hours.
37' Axopar XC
37' Axopar XC option with an enclosed cabin and bathroom. The current public trip listing shows an 8-hour Dry Tortugas rate with fuel paid separately.
Why the private boat can be a different trip
Scheduled ferry and seaplane visitors arrive at Garden Key, where Fort Jefferson is located. NPS says these services do not provide transportation to other areas of the park. Private vessels have more flexibility, subject to park rules, weather, sea state, captain judgment and specific itinerary limitations.
Want to scuba dive the Dry Tortugas?
A six-passenger dive-focused option offers private Dry Tortugas scuba or snorkeling trips with guided dive support.
Read the diving guide