Good Going 24

So where is Dry Tortugas, and how did such a natural treasure get such an odd name? About 68 miles off the western tip of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is a group of tiny islets known for their sea turtles. The Spanish word for turtles is torgugas, explaining a portion of its unique name.

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

First designated a National Monument by FDR, the Dry Tortugas islets were named a National Park in 1992 at the tail end of George H. W. Bush’s term right before Clinton won the November election. 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. Everyone leaves in amazement at the fascinating history of the former fort originally thought of as a defense against the real pirates of the Caribbean.

Tourists now can experience many interesting and fun activities in Dry Tortugas National Park, from the tour of historical Ft. Jefferson, to sunning on the sandy beaches, to a memorable snorkeling trip to see the diverse 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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