This dive site, Dry Tortugas, is a remote and pristine diving destination, accessible only via a multi-hour boat journey from Key West. Divers navigate an underwater landscape featuring vibrant coral reefs interspersed with historical wreck sites. The most famous landmark is Fort Jefferson on Garden Key, but underwater, divers explore a blend of natural beauty and submerged history, offering a unique blend of ecological and archaeological interest.
The waters of Dry Tortugas teem with diverse marine life. Divers can expect to encounter an abundance of tropical and game fish, alongside a vibrant display of colorful reef fish. The area is particularly renowned for encounters with larger pelagic species, including various turtles, sharks, and rays, making every dive a potential wildlife spectacle.
The best time to visit Dry Tortugas for diving is typically from spring through fall when water temperatures are warmer and sea conditions are generally calmer. Its relatively shallow maximum depth of 14 meters and average depth of 7 meters make it exceptionally suitable for both scuba divers of all levels and freedivers, offering ample bottom time and excellent opportunities for extended exploration and marine life observation.
