KEY WEST SNORKEL FIELD GUIDE
Seventy Miles West: Fort Jefferson, a Shipwreck Snorkel, and Lunch on Loggerhead Key
A one-day public charter from Key West that puts Fort Jefferson, an hour-long snorkel at the Windjammer wreck, and lunch at Loggerhead Key within reach; this guide explains the flow and practical particulars.
Seventy Miles West: Fort Jefferson, a Shipwreck Snorkel, and Lunch on Loggerhead Key.
The Dry Tortugas sit like a cluster of jewels well offshore from Key West: turquoise water, near-empty beaches and the massive silhouette of Fort Jefferson. This public charter from Key West delivers a full day ashore and in the water—time to explore the fort, an hour of snorkeling at the Windjammer shipwreck, and sightseeing and lunch at Loggerhead Key.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Fort Jefferson: a 19th‑century sentinel
Fort Jefferson rises from the reef as the central feature of the Dry Tortugas. On this charter you check in to the park and are free to roam the fort and its grounds; a guided tour is available if you prefer a structured visit.
Windjammer shipwreck snorkel
After time at the fort the boat takes you to the Windjammer wreck for about an hour of snorkeling—a focused window to explore marine life around a storied wreck.
Loggerhead Key: sightseeing and lunch
The charter concludes its Dry Tortugas circuit with a stop at Loggerhead Key for additional snorkeling, sightseeing, and lunch on or near the island.
What the day feels like
How the day unfolds
You depart Key West in the early morning, make an open-water crossing to Fort Jefferson, spend self-guided time (or join a guided tour) on the fort and surrounding park, then return to the boat for an hour-long snorkel at the Windjammer shipwreck before heading to Loggerhead Key for sightseeing, snorkeling and lunch.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter suits—and when to check details with the operator.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The charter departs Key West at 7am and makes an open-water crossing of about 1 3/4 hours to reach the Fort Jefferson dock; plan for a full day away from Key West.
The day includes snorkeling and time ashore; pack sun protection, swimwear/towel, and any personal snorkeling gear or medications you prefer—confirm specifics with the operator.
You will check in to the park at Fort Jefferson and are free to explore; the vessel offers a guided tour on request, then proceeds to the Windjammer wreck for snorkeling and to Loggerhead Key for sightseeing and lunch.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What time does the boat leave?
The charter leaves the dock at 7am from Key West.
How long is the crossing to Fort Jefferson?
The trip to the Fort Jefferson dock takes about 1 3/4 hours.
What can I do at Fort Jefferson?
You check in to the park and are free to roam the fort and grounds; a guided tour is available if you want one.
Where and how long is the snorkeling portion?
The charter stops at the Windjammer shipwreck for about an hour of snorkeling and also offers snorkeling opportunities at Loggerhead Key.
Who operates the Dry Tortugas public charter?
The operator for this Dry Tortugas public charter is Conch 'N Around Charters out of Key West.