Private Axopar Day Trip to Dry Tortugas from Key West — Snorkel Fort Jefferson
Cut the horizon from Key West aboard an Axopar 37 XC and spend a private day exploring Fort Jefferson, Loggerhead Key and world-class snorkeling. This luxury day trip trims travel time and delivers tailored stops for history, wildlife and reef swimming.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The sun reflects intensely over open water; use reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the corals below.
Pre-board seasickness meds
Crossing can be choppy even on a fast boat—take anti-nausea medication at least 30 minutes before departure if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Wear water shoes
Landings and reef entries are on shells and coral rubble—closed-toe water shoes protect feet and make scrambling easier.
Carry a waterproof pouch
Park admission and personal items should stay dry—use a pouch for phone, cash and park permits.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Snorkel the reef edge west of Fort Jefferson where current brings cleaner water and more fish.
- •Loggerhead Key’s narrow sand spits — shallow snorkel zones with good chances for turtle sightings at low tide.
Wildlife
- •Green and loggerhead sea turtles
- •Tropical reef fish and occasional nurse sharks
Conservation Note
The reefs here are fragile — use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid standing on coral, and follow park rules to minimize impact.
Fort Jefferson, started in the 1840s and expanded during the Civil War, served as a remote coastal fortress and later housed Dr. Samuel Mudd after the Lincoln assassination.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the Axopar for approach shots to Fort Jefferson
- • Fort Jefferson ramparts for architectural detail
- • Loggerhead Key beach for wide-angle reef-and-sand compositions
What to Bring
Well-fitting snorkel maskEssential
Personal masks fit better than loaners, reduce fogging and increase time spent exploring reefs.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the coral ecosystems you'll be swimming over.
Water shoesEssential
Protects feet during landings and when walking rocky beaches or reef flats.
Light waterproof jacket
A thin jacket helps on the return leg if the wind picks up or temperatures drop late in the day.
Common Questions
Is park admission included?
No. The Dry Tortugas entrance fee is not included in the tour price; bring payment for park fee or check with your operator on collection options.
How long is the boat crossing?
Crossing time varies with sea state but typically runs 90–120 minutes each way on the Axopar 37 XC used for this private trip.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes — snorkel equipment is provided as part of the trip, though many guests prefer to bring a personal mask for comfort.
Can children and infants come on board?
Yes. The operator notes stroller accessibility and infant seats are available; children must be supervised during landings and snorkeling.
What if weather cancels the trip?
The operator cancels in bad weather; for a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before departure per the listed cancellation policy.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted; check with the operator in advance for specifics regarding non-service pets.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Key West, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to climb a ladder or step off the boat and swim/snorkel short distances.
Topics
Ready to Explore Key West?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now