The best thing about summer time in the Keys, other than an icy cold Margarita, are the waters; invitingly warm and calm. There is no better time to take the Ft. Jefferson Ferry out to the Dry Tortugas National Park. With smooth waters all the way the 60 mile ferry trip is a pleasant hour on the water and a great way to take in the magnificent view of Gulf Stream waters. The coastal military fort started construction in 1825 to guard over the gulf stream trading routes. It has a vast history serving as a military base, a union stronghold during the Civil War and a prison. It is an adventure to wander through the old fort, imagining the days when soldiers had to live on the desolate island with only rain collection systems for water and cans of ham to sustain them. The Fort is now a registered park and they offer daily tours to guide you throughout. Once you have taken in the history of the fort the little island has a beautiful beach and offers the best snorkeling in the Keys. The waters are pristine and one can swim around the edge of the entire fort's moat system, in only 3 feet of water, viewing numerous corals and sea plants growing along the old wall. This area is teeming with reef fishes and is truly stunning. The Fort Jefferson Ferry is a full day trip. They offer breakfast on the ride out and a picnic lunch at the fort. They do supply snorkeling equipment for those interested. If you want a faster way out to the fort, there is a Sea Plane, that offers beverages and snorkel equipment, and is a half day excursion. There is nothing like an air vantage point to appreciate the beauty of the Florida Keys. The Fort Jefferson trip is extremely popular so it is best to plan ahead. Talk to your concierges Geri or Rebecca and they can fill you in on more details and arrange a trip for you. For information on the fort visit:
http://www.nps.gov/drto/index.htm
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