The “Dry Tortuga’s” were named by early Spanish explorers, due to their resemblance to the sea turtles which were once so plentiful, and the fact that they are “dry”. There is no source of fresh water available.
Though it is not an easy place to get to, once you’re there, we think you’ll agree it’s worth the effort! Part of the appeal of the Tortugas is the remote solitude, natural wildlife and peaceful nature of these islands. The history of abandoned “Fort Jefferson” adds mystery.
Fort Jefferson has a fascinating history and the architecture of this massive structure is amazing. It is well worth a few hours of exploring. Visit the lonely cell of Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was imprisoned here for setting John Wilkes Booth’s broken leg, after he assassinated President Lincoln.
The Dry Tortugas are a National Park, staffed by a few friendly park rangers, and their own water supply is dependent on a cistern system, so you cannot get fresh water from the park, or food. (Some guests however, have reported having great success swapping cold six-packs of beer with the local fisherman, in return for fresh lobster, fish or shrimp!)
Weather is a very important factor when planning a trip to the Dry Tortugas. Listen carefully to the local forecast and check with our Key West manager before leaving.
WASHINGTON — Florida Governor Charlie Crist signed a bill this week that includes a provision, supported by the National Marine Manufacturers Association, that prevents local Florida communities from forcing boaters to leave an anchorage unless the boat is a live-aboard vessel, NMMA reported in a release today.
The law specifically defines a live-aboard vessel as one that is used solely as a residence and not for navigation; one represented as a place of business; and/or one that is declared to be a domicile. It also prohibits local governments from regulating anchorage outside of established mooring fields unless the boat is a live-aboard vessel.
NMMA, BoatUS, the Marine Industries Association of South Florida and the Southwest Florida Marine Industries Association have advocated for clarification within the law since 2006, when Miami Beach set an anchorage limit of seven days within any 30-day period. Ft. Lauderdale, Daytona Beach, Gulfport, Marco Island and other coastal communities soon enacted similar restrictions, with the most restrictive law being a 24-hour window for boaters anchoring in Ft. Lauderdale. The Palm Beach County Commission is currently considering a prohibition on anchoring within its city limits, but tabled the issue last week.
“This law will not only have a positive impact on boaters in the area, but generate revenue for local businesses by allowing boaters more freedom to anchor,” said David Dickerson, NMMA director of state government relations. “We are encouraged by this law’s effort to make Florida more boater-friendly than ever.”
