CUDJOE KEY PRIVATE FIELD GUIDE
A Private SeaVee Run to Fort Jefferson: A Day of Brick, Reefs, and Open-Water Passage
A private full‑day charter from Key West to Fort Jefferson and Dry Tortugas National Park aboard a 2025 32' SeaVee; this guide lays out logistics, highlights, and what to bring for the 10‑hour outing.
A Private SeaVee Run to Fort Jefferson: A Day of Brick, Reefs, and Open-Water Passage.
This is a private, full‑day charter from Key West to Dry Tortugas National Park, centered on a visit to historic Fort Jefferson and time snorkeling the park’s reefs. Travel is aboard a new 2025 32’ SeaVee with a small‑group, customizable itinerary that combines history, wildlife and offshore cruising comfort.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Fort Jefferson — a sheer brick presence
Fort Jefferson is the centerpiece of Dry Tortugas National Park and one of the largest brick structures in the Americas; arriving on a private charter lets you explore the fort and its beaches on your own schedule.
Snorkeling clear water and vibrant reefs
Just offshore the fort are crystal‑clear waters and thriving coral communities where snorkelers encounter tropical fish and reef life — a major draw of the Dry Tortugas.
Fast, comfortable passage aboard a modern SeaVee
Travel aboard a brand‑new 2025 32’ SeaVee powered by twin 300 Mercurys, with onboard comforts and the captain’s local knowledge making the offshore transit part of the experience.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You meet the captain in Key West, complete a safety briefing, then head offshore for a roughly 70‑mile cruise to Dry Tortugas aboard a stable, fast SeaVee. Expect a mix of open‑water watching for seabirds, turtles and dolphins, followed by a two‑hour exploration of Fort Jefferson and time for snorkeling, beaching or a picnic before a late‑afternoon return to Key West.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private charter suits — and what to keep in mind.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a full‑day private charter with a total duration of 10 hours.
Meet Captain Jose Rodriguez at Oceans Edge Marina in Key West for the pre‑departure safety briefing and loading of personal gear.
Bring food and drinks for the day (a cooler with ice and bottled water is provided), snorkel gear (mask, fins, snorkel, wetsuit if desired), a towel, hat, sunglasses, reef‑safe sunscreen, camera/GoPro, and the National Park entrance fee ($15 per person, ages 16+) or a valid Park Pass.
The charter provides the boat, safety gear, a cooler with ice and bottled water, and a private bathroom aboard the 32’ SeaVee; gratuity for captain/crew (15–20%) is customary.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Fort Jefferson Adventure?
The charter is a full‑day outing with a total duration of 10 hours.
Where do we meet the captain?
Meet Captain Jose Rodriguez at Oceans Edge Marina in Key West for the safety briefing and boarding.
Is the trip a private charter?
Yes — every trip is a private, customizable full‑day charter.
What should I bring for snorkeling and shore time?
Bring your own snorkel gear (mask, fins, snorkel, wetsuit if desired), towel, hat, sunglasses, reef‑safe sunscreen, camera/GoPro, and food and drinks for the day; a cooler with ice and bottled water is provided on board.
How much time do we get at Fort Jefferson?
The itinerary includes approximately two hours to explore Fort Jefferson during the visit.
Are there restroom facilities aboard?
Yes — the SeaVee used for the charter is equipped with a private bathroom.