A Once-in-a-Lifetime Day Trip from Key West
Just 70 miles west of Key West sits one of the most breathtaking and remote national parks in the U.S. — Dry Tortugas National Park. Think turquoise water, coral reefs, and an old brick fort that looks straight out of a pirate movie.
Our family took the seaplane from Key West, and it was every bit the adventure we hoped for. If you’re dreaming about adding this bucket-list stop to your Florida Keys itinerary, here’s everything you need to know before you book a Seaplane to Dry Tortugas.
Table of Contents
How to Get to Dry Tortugas
There are only two ways to reach Dry Tortugas National Park: by boat or by seaplane.
The fastest and most scenic route. The only seaplane company available.
- 40-minute flight each way with unreal views of sandbars and shipwrecks.
- Two departure options: half-day (about 2½ hours on the island) or full-day (about 4½ hours).
- The plane seats 10 passengers and flies low enough for epic photos.
Pro Tip: The seaplane only seats ten passengers, and flights fill up fast. Book as soon as you know your Key West travel dates! They do offer a 48-hour cancellation window, so you can adjust your plans if needed.
A budget-friendly alternative but a much longer day (2½ hours each way).
- Great for those who don’t mind a full day on the water and want to bring more gear.
ProTip: Take bonine the night before to prevent sea sickness.
We chose the seaplane option for the experience and the time savings — and honestly, it was worth every penny. It’s a big splurge, but an unforgettable adventure your kids will NEVER forget. From the moment the wheels lifted off and over the turquoise water to the breathtaking aerial views of the Florida Keys, it felt like something straight out of a movie. Landing in the ocean beside Fort Jefferson surrounded by endless shades of blue was insanely cool and one of those moments where you just sit back, take a deep breath, and realize — this is why we travel.
Definitely do it, but book VERY early. It sells out quickly.
Booking Tip: Simply
Pro Tip: Book your seaplane for one of your first days in Key West. Mother Nature loves to shake things up here, and high winds can easily push your flight back. It happened to us, and I was so thankful we had a few open days to reschedule — because this is one experience you absolutely don’t want to miss!
Seaplane Cost & Booking Tips
- Half-Day Flight: around $494 per person; 12 and under $395.20
- Full-Day Flight: around $868 per person; 12 and under $694.20
- Children under 2: free (lap infants only)
- Additional Fee: National Park Service Entrance Fee $15.00 per person over the age of 16. Seaplane Adventures typically takes the entrance fee when you check-in.
- Book months in advance — flights fill quickly, especially December–April.
- Check-in is 30 minutes before departure at the Key West International Airport seaplane terminal.
It is super pricey. But, it felt worth it to have such a unique experience and to avoid six hours on a ferry. Ferry tickets are about $235/person for comparison purposes.
The flight times offered are: 8am, 10am, 12pm, and 2pm. The best options are 8am and 2pm to avoid the crowds. The ferry is at the island from 10:30am–3:00pm. The 8am flight, you’ll leave just as the ferry crowds arrive and on the 2pm flight, you’ll arrive just as they’re packing up.
It’s the best way to enjoy the island with fewer people around — you’ll only see the seaplane flyers and campers from the ferry (very few campers!) The park rangers will be there too!
We did the 2pm-6pm flight – again, mainly for that gorgeous sunset.
Pro Tip: Bring your camera for the ride out. You’ll spot shipwrecks, tiny islands, and that famous “Caribbean-blue meets emerald green” water you won’t believe is Florida and on the way back the most beautiful sunset you’ve ever seen!
What to Bring to Dry Tortugas
Since the island is remote (no restaurants or shops), you must pack smart.
Must-Haves:
- Swimsuits + cover-ups
- Reef-safe sunscreen and polarized sunglasses
- Hat and light towel
- Water bottle (filled before takeoff)
- Camera or GoPro
- Waterproof bag for valuables
- Snacks or a light lunch (the seaplane provides coolers and drinks)
- Dry clothes to change before you take the flight back.
Pro Tip: If you book the half-day flight, you don’t need to bring a ton of stuff. Keep it simple and travel light — it makes the trip feel so much more adventurous.
Checking in at the Terminal
- Arrive 30 minutes early.
- Park in the short-term lot and follow signs for Seaplane Check-In. It is very easy to follow.
- There’s a restroom available before you fly
- You’ll sign waivers, get an island map, and watch a short info video about the island, fort, and where to snorkel.
- You’ll also pay your national park entrance fee ($15/person — or bring your National Parks Pass!)
Seaplane Adventures will provide coolers, drinks, and snorkel gear before you board.
Flying to Dr Tortugas National Park
You hop aboard a tiny seaplane at the Key West airport, and before you know it, you’re gliding into the sky with a postcard-perfect view of Key West beneath you. These little planes are made for adventure — they fly low, slow, and just close enough to the water to make your heart race a little. The ocean below is unbelievably clear, revealing sandbars, coral, old shipwrecks, and maybe even a sea turtle if you’re lucky. (We were on turtle watch!)
Everyone gets a window seat — no fighting for views or leaning over someone’s shoulder. You’ll have a headset too, so you can listen as the pilot points out landmarks and hidden gems along the way.
Landing on the water is nothing short of magical. The seaplane skims the waves, then slows to a gentle glide as it approaches the island, feeling part flight, part boat ride. It’s smooth, exhilarating, and unforgettable — especially if it’s your first time touching down on the ocean.
Things to Do at Dry Tortugas National Park
- Explore Fort Jefferson – Walk the walls of this massive 19th-century fort. The views from the top are incredible.
- Snorkel the Reefs – Gear is included with your flight, and the water is so clear you can see tropical fish and coral just steps off the shore.
- Swim or Relax on the Beach – The soft white sand and gentle waves make it perfect for families.
- Take Photos – Every corner of the island looks like a postcard.
- Spot Wildlife – You might see sea turtles, soaring frigatebirds, or the occasional dolphin on the flight back.
What We Loved Most
When the seaplane skimmed the waves and glided up to Fort Jefferson, it honestly didn’t feel real. It’s one of those pinch-me travel moments. And the flight back to Key West? Pure bliss — salty hair, sun-kissed skin, and hearts full of wonder for how beautiful Florida really is.
Quick Tips Before You Go
- Apply sunscreen before you board — there’s not much shade on the island.
- Bring cash if you plan to buy National Park souvenirs or donate onsite.
- Wear your swimsuit under your clothes to maximize swim time.
- Don’t forget your National Park Passport stamp — it’s a fun souvenir for the kids!
Is the Seaplane Worth It?
YES, YES, AND YES!
It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s hands-down the most magical. The views alone are worth it — and arriving by seaplane makes the day feel like your own private adventure.
If you’re planning a trip to Key West, add Dry Tortugas to your list. It’s one of those rare places that actually looks like the photos — and you’ll leave already dreaming about coming back.
Pro Tip: If you get the chance to chat with a park ranger, definitely do it! Most rangers spend around three years stationed on the island, living and working in one of the most remote national parks in the country. The seaplane pilots even bring them food and supplies — talk about island living!
We love the seaplane!
If you are heading to Key West soon, check out our itineraries for Key West HERE and HERE, our favorite restaurants HERE and the best hotels HERE.
