The Dry Tortugas are a small group of islands about 70 miles west of Key West. The islands get their name because- Dry, there is no fresh water and Tortugas (turtles), there was an abundance of sea turtles that were taken in on the island when it was first discovered. Fort Jefferson was built on the island and used during the Civil War. It was then used as a prison and eventually became abandoned. It is now a National Park and us lucky tourists get to spend the day there.
Because the Dry Tortugas are so far out, we took a 2 hour catamaran trip out to the island. It was an early morning, but luckily breakfast was provided for us. Once we got there, it was just incredible! The fort itself is pretty large (considering it is on an island) and the beaches were gorgeous.
After getting off the boat, we took a tour of the fort where we learned all about the history. Then we had a quick lunch and it was time to hit the beach! Haley and I spent most of our time in the shallow part while the boys went of to snorkel. Zach said he saw two crabs and a large conch shell. I even saw a sting ray. It was a pretty hot and sunny day, but somehow no one got sunburned.
It was a fabulous trip and I hope we get to do it again before we leave here.
Yeah, see, that sounds like living in key west for three years will totally be worth it. I'm stuck in San Antonio where there it's hot, and we have a couple old buildings (the missions), but no beautiful beaches to enjoy.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great adventure. I felt like I went with you! It is beautiful there.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing the history. I learned something new.