DRY TORTUGAS NATIONAL PARKS
	Avast ye mateys - sunken gold, pirate legends, and the largest 19th century American coastal forts await in the Dry Tortugas National Park. If you're lucky, you'll swim with the fishes, too! Approximately 70 miles west of Key West, the Dry Tortugas National Park is one of American's least accessible parks. There are no roads to the string of seven islands, instead you'll need to arrive by sea or by air. (See getting there for more information.) But the extra efforts are worth it. Although there are no longer any pirates and gold is hard to come by, Fort Jefferson's rangers are more than willing to help unlock a treasure trove of legends and history. These people really love what they do - in fact, rumor has it that the waiting list for becoming a ranger at Fort Jefferson is five years. But one visit is all it takes to realize the job is well worth the wait. Check Out the Fort Start by stepping back in time - explore Fort Jefferson on either a self-guided or ranger-led tour, or kick back and sunbathe on a remote palm tree lined white sand beach of Garden Key. Or if you're feeling more active, take to the water. Snorkel & Dive The Keys (Key Largo to the Dry Tortugas) lays claim to the only living barrier reef ecosystem in the continental United States. The reefs are typically shallow and constructed of hard elkhorn corals; boulder-size brain corals; tall, willowy sea whips; and giant purple sea fans. Within the park's waters, there's something for everyone from coral reefs to more than 200 shipwrecked vessels. The City of Washington and the Benwood are popular with beginners; advanced divers will want to explore Bibb and Duane. Planning to spend more than just one day? Several companies offer 3-4 day live aboard diving trips. (M/V Playmate and Ultimategetaway.) Catch Dinner If you'd rather spend more time on the water than in the water, fishing is always an option. Fish from the land or a charter boat at sea and you may catch grouper, amberjack, cobia, tarpon, mackerel, snook, red snapper, and other saltwater fish. However, lobster taking is not allowed. (Saltwater fishing licenses are available in Key West.) Watch Birds The islands are famous for their birds and were designated a sanctuary to protect them. Bird activity is greatest March through September, migratory birds peak April and May. During this period 100,000 Noddy and Sooty Terns nest on nearby Bush Key. Throughout the year up to 200 varieties can be spotted - Frigate birds, Boobies, Brown Pelicans, Double-Crested Cormorants, White Tailed Tropic Birds and many varieties of land and water birds. Camp Out Unless you have your own boat or opt for a live-aboard, an overnight stay in the Dry Tortugas will involve camping. And there's only one campground to choose from. The 13-site, primitive campground is located on the same island as Fort Jefferson and is a short walk from the public dock. Eleven individual sites can accommodate up to 6 people and 3 tents, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If a regular campsite isn't available, an overflow area is provided. The campground is a self-service area with a nightly fee of $3 per person. You'll need to put some planning into this camping trip. The Dry Tortugas do not have any freshwater. You'll need to pack in all your supplies (including water) and pack out any trash. Quick tip for campers: Freeze most of your water bottles -- you'll need less space for ice and your food (and water) will stay cold. When to Go: The park is open year round. However, most natives agree the best time to visit is November through April. During this time, Bush Key, which is closed from March-September to protect nesting Sooty and Noddy Terns, is open. And, you'll be more likely to avoid The Keys' hot humid summer season when insects swarm. If you want to avoid human pests, however, avoid the month of April - it's peak visitation time. Getting There: Seaplanes of Key West provides air service to the national park. For schedules, prices, and reservations, call 800-950-2FLY or 305-294-0709. For ferry schedules, prices, and reservations, contact: Sunny Days: 800-236-7937, 305-292- 6100; or visit www.www.drytortugas.com. Yankee Fleet: 800-634-0939; 305-294-7009; or visit www.yankeefleet.com. (For a fee, Yankee Freedom II will let you bring your kayak!!) Don't have a kayak? Both www.islandkayakkeywest.com and Key West Kayaks by the Fairfield rent kayaks and offer pick up and delivery to the ferry. Call 305-292-0059 for more info Fishing and dive charters can be arranged in the Florida Keys and Naples. For a list of services, contact the park at 305-242-7700.
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