Dry Tortugas & Dolphin Tours by Salty Nutz Charterz in Key West
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to stay on a boat for extended periods and moderate swimming for snorkeling.
Overview
Set sail from Key West with Salty Nutz Charterz for full-day Dry Tortugas National Park adventures and half-day dolphin tours. Encounter historic fortresses, vibrant reefs, and marine wildlife on expertly guided trips.
Details
Out beyond the southernmost tip of mainland Florida lies a collection of islands where history meets the sea in the most vivid way imaginable. Key West, a hotspot for marine adventure, offers passage to one of the nation’s most remote national parks: Dry Tortugas. Salty Nutz Charterz LLC delivers this experience with two standout trips—the Full Day Dry Tortugas Trip and a Half Day Dolphin Eco Tour—that frame the natural beauty and rich history of this subtropical marine environment.
The Full Day Dry Tortugas Trip departs early from Key West, taking travelers on a roughly 70-mile journey westward across open Atlantic waters. Upon arrival, visitors can roam Fort Jefferson’s brick fortress, an impressive 19th-century coastal defense site surrounded by shallow reefs and crystal-clear water. This area offers excellent snorkeling opportunities on vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish, sea turtles, and occasional rays. The reef’s limestone and coral structures form dramatic underwater topography, showing off the fragile ecosystem so vital to Florida’s marine life.
The Half Day Dolphin Eco Tour complements the Tortugas trip with thrilling marine wildlife encounters closer to Key West. Board a specially equipped vessel designed for comfort and visibility as skilled guides steer you toward pods of bottlenose dolphins. These tours emphasize respectful observation, ensuring low-impact and educational experiences that give insight into local species’ behaviors and habitats.
Salty Nutz Charterz stands out for combining authentic local knowledge with eco-conscious outings. Their small group sizes and attentive crew encourage personalized connection to Key West’s dynamic Gulf and Atlantic coastline ecosystems. Whether tracing the past on Dry Tortugas or watching dolphins surf the wake, adventurers leave with a deeper appreciation of Florida’s marine wonderland. For travelers seeking memorable day trips anchored in both natural beauty and history, Salty Nutz Charterz is a gateway to the best of Key West’s oceanic adventures.
Adventure Tips
Bring Sun Protection
Florida sun can be intense, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and UV-protection clothing for comfort on deck.
Snorkel Gear Preference
While snorkel gear is provided on some trips, bringing your own mask and snorkel ensures the best fit and comfort.
Stay Hydrated
Long hours on the water mean you should bring water and stay hydrated throughout the trip.
Motion Sickness Prep
If you're prone to seasickness, take precautions before the trip as open ocean crossings can be choppy.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Loggerhead Key Lighthouse remains
- Coral Garden snorkeling area
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins
- Green sea turtles
History
Fort Jefferson, built in the mid-1800s, is a sprawling coastal defense fortification crucial during the Civil War era.
Conservation
The Dry Tortugas ecosystem benefits from strict fishing and boating regulations to preserve its delicate coral reefs and marine habitats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Fort Jefferson ramparts
- Deck of the tour boat facing the reef
- Along the shoreline of Loggerhead Key
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Snorkel Mask and Fins
Enhances underwater exploration of reefs, improving comfort and visibility.
summer|spring|fall specific
Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
Protects against wind and unexpected showers on the open deck.
spring|fall|winter specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Two-way hydration during long trips keeps energy and focus up.
Seasickness Medication
Helpful for preventing nausea due to ocean movement.