The Dry Tortugas experience continues underwater.
Dry Tortugas National Park protects an extensive marine environment around its small islands. NPS maps identify good scuba-diving areas and submerged cultural resources, and divers can encounter coral habitat, shipwreck remains and clear-water reef systems depending on conditions and the permitted itinerary.
Reefs, wrecks and Loggerhead Key
Loggerhead Key is associated with Little Africa reef and the Windjammer wreck area. The National Park Service describes the Windjammer as a popular snorkeling and novice-dive site in roughly 20 feet of water. Other dive sites around the park can be more advanced, so the appropriate site depends on certification, conditions and operator judgment.
NPS requires divers and snorkelers outside designated swim areas to display the appropriate divers-down flag.
Coral, cultural artifacts and marine resources are protected. Look, photograph and enjoy without touching or collecting.
Current, visibility, wind and sea state can change which locations are appropriate on a given day.
Some sites are suitable for newer divers while deeper or more exposed dives may require greater experience.
Private dive & snorkel charter option
A private Dry Tortugas dive and snorkel charter is available from Key West for groups of up to six guests. The full-day format is customizable around the group, conditions and park access.
Up to six guests, with the itinerary adjusted around the group, conditions and park access. Lunch and snacks are included.
The private format can be built around certified divers, snorkelers or a mixed private group, subject to conditions and operator requirements.
Dive trips include an in-water Divemaster for the private group.
The boats and what they are built for
The available dive-focused boats include a larger cabin-equipped vessel designed for long offshore days and a 34' catamaran set up with dive-specific tank storage and a large dive ladder. Current vessel assignment depends on the trip and availability.
What a private Tortugas dive day can include
Depending on weather, sea state and the group's goals, the private itinerary can combine Fort Jefferson with Loggerhead Key, reef diving, snorkeling and historic wreck sites. Possible areas include Texas Rock and the Windjammer wreck near Loggerhead Key. The exact sites are chosen around conditions and diver experience.
Private Dry Tortugas dive or snorkel charter.
Private Dry Tortugas dive and snorkel trips are customizable full-day adventures. Current published pricing starts at $2,999 and ranges to $3,599, plus tanks, rental equipment and park entrance fees. A fuel surcharge may also apply based on current fuel prices and trip distance.
Request Private DatesPublic / per-person Dry Tortugas dive & snorkel option
A public/per-person Dry Tortugas scuba or snorkel trip is also available for travelers who do not need a full private boat. Current public information advertises this option for Thursdays, with a minimum group required to operate and availability subject to confirmation.
Request Public Trip