So where is Dry Tortugas, and how did such a beautiful place get such an odd name? About 70 statute miles off the coast of Key West, Dry Tortugas is a group of tiny islands known for the abundant sea life, including sea turtles. Tortugas is Spanish for turtles, and that explains a portion of its odd name.

But what makes it dry, given that Dry Tortugas Park is surrounded by the waters of the crystal clear blue Caribbean? The name actually comes from the days when the Spanish settled the islands, and they soon found out that there were no fresh water springs available. So the islets eventually came to be known as the Dry Tortugas, or “dry turtles.” Even now, because the islands are a major tourist attraction, visitors must pack their own water.

First named a National Monument in 1935 by FDR, Dry Tortugas was designated a national park in 1992 at the end of George H. W. Bush’s term. As the home of the unfinished Civil War era Ft Jefferson (a brick structure which came to be used as a prison housing accused conspirators in Lincoln’s assassination), the strip of sandy beaches and colorful reefs is now a destination for the 80,000 tourists who visit each year. All leave in amazement at the intriguing history of the former based originally conceived as a defense against — you guessed it — the (real) pirates of the Caribbean.

Visitors can now enjoy all sorts of fascinating and recreational activities at Dry Tortugas park, from a historical tour of Fort Jefferson, to relaxation on the sandy beaches, to an absolutely memorable snorkel expedition to see the amazing sea life.

Of course, the only access to the island is by boat of sea plan. So if you want to book a trip, a Dry Tortugas charter will be necessary. There are some great discounts available on Dry Tortugas charters, Key West hotels, Key West snorkeling, and other recreation packages at Gold Card Key West.

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