Yankee Freedom III

Official Ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park from Key West

Yankee Freedom III, LLC is the company authorized by the National Park Service (NPS) and the Department of the Interior to operate the ferry service to Dry Tortugas National Park. Its vessel, the Yankee Freedom, is a high-speed catamaran that transports passengers from Key West to the park, located 70 miles (about 113 km) away. The company presents itself as the official ferry from Key West to the park and offers daily excursions.

The Destination: Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson

Dry Tortugas National Park is made up of seven small islands and is described as one of the world's most unique eco-attractions. Its main attraction is the historic Fort Jefferson, a fortress that was used as a prison during the American Civil War. Passengers can explore the fort and take part in various activities. The park has been recognized as the best birding destination in the United States and number 12 in the world, according to the company itself, and in 2025 it received Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice award, which distinguishes the top 10% of the platform's best-rated accommodations and experiences.

Activities Included in the Excursion

The day trip includes a series of services and activities:

• Breakfast and lunch (for campers, arrival day only).
• Complimentary snorkeling equipment.
• Beach walk, snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing in the sun.
• 45-minute narrated tour of the fort.
• Entrance to Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson included in the ticket.
• Boat ride.

Additionally, passengers have the option to join a 40-minute guided tour of the fort, led by expert naturalists, who share stories about the fortress, its history, and its surroundings.

Snorkeling, Beaches, and Birdwatching

The park offers some of the best waters for snorkeling and light diving in North America, with depths of 5 to 15 feet (1.5 to 4.5 meters), suitable for all audiences. The pristine beaches of Fort Jefferson are described as the best in the Florida Keys, with crystal-clear waters, palm trees, and soft sand. The seven islands are a vital stopover for migratory birds traveling between South America and the United States, making them a highlight of the Great Florida Birding Trail.

Camping in the Park

The company offers the possibility of camping in Dry Tortugas National Park, an experience they describe as unique, sleeping under the stars on an island 70 miles from civilization. Campers should note that there are no restaurants or gift shops on the island, although there is a visitor center and a bookstore. The Yankee Freedom provides a light breakfast and a box lunch on all day trips. Soft drinks and snacks are available for cash purchase in the ship's galley, and free water is available all day. There is no place to buy ice on the island, although you can bring your own in a cooler. Consuming your own alcohol on board the Yankee Freedom is not allowed.

Itinerary and Trip Logistics

The typical day trip itinerary begins with camper check-in at 6:00 a.m. and day passenger check-in at 7:00 a.m. Boarding is at 7:30 a.m. and departure is at 8:00 a.m. Arrival at Fort Jefferson is scheduled for 10:15 a.m. (times may vary depending on weather). The fort tour is at 11:00 a.m. and lunch is served from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The return departure is at 3:00 p.m. and arrival in Key West is at 5:15 p.m. (also subject to weather variations).

Boarding takes place at the Ferry Terminal at 100 Grinnell Street, Key West. There is parking at the Key West City Parking Garage, at 300 Grinnell Street. The ticket office is also located at 100 Grinnell Street. All adults must present a photo ID when boarding.

What to Bring and What Not to Bring

The company recommends that passengers bring comfortable footwear, a hat, a bathing suit, sunglasses, towels, a change of dry clothes, sunscreen, a camera, a light jacket or sweatshirt, something to read, and the national park pass. Pets are not allowed (except certified assistant dogs), nor are flammable accelerants, compressed gas canisters, firearms of any type, or drones.

Recognitions and Awards

The company highlights that the destination has been ranked as the best place for birdwatching in the United States and number 12 in the world. In 2025, it received Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice award, which recognizes winners among the top 10% of the platform's best-rated listings. Quotes from media such as USA Today, Islands Magazine, and Rachael Ray Magazine are also mentioned, describing the place as one of the best places to explore and one of the best things to do in the Florida Keys.

Additional Services

The company offers gift cards and has a loyalty program or photo contest. It also has a customer service via chat on its website. The website includes information about accessibility and complies with the ADA's WCAG 2.0/2.1 AA standards.