Dry Tortugas Spring Break

Get a jump on summertime fun and sign up now for one of our most popular and affordable trips! The Dry Tortugas National Park, a cluster of 7 coral reefs, is located approximately 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. The area was named for the frequently sighted loggerhead (and endangered green turtles) and to warn sailors that there was no fresh water to be found.

The Dry Tortugas have long been known for legends of pirates and sunken gold. It is also the home of Fort Jefferson. Construction began on the massive fortress in 1846.

You can expect warm, clear water, massive coral heads rising from white sand channels, and some of the largest schools of fish in the Caribbean. You are likely to encounter the Goliath grouper in the recesses of the reefs. We also plan to dive the French Wreck and the wreck of the Baja California.

The Ultimate Getaway is a spacious 100 foot aluminum liveaboard vessel, air conditioned throughout, with large interior and exterior lounges. There are comfortable bunks in two main sleeping areas and you are sure to appreciate the great food and warm hospitality!

Spring Break Itinerary

April 7 (Wed) - Make plans to board the Ultimate Getaway in Fort Myers (click here fordirections) at 5:00 PM. We will depart for the Dry Tortugas shortly after boarding and the boat will motor ovenight to the Dry Tortugas. Dinner is not served the first night so plan to eat before you board. There is a very good restaurant next door to the marina.

April 8 (Thu) - Wake to the sound of the anchor going overboard and start your first dive between 6 and 7 AM. Plan on making at least five and as many as seven dives on your first day and night in the park.

April 9 (Fri) - Another day in paradise! This day typically starts with a tour of historic Fort Jefferson. Then, be prepared for another five to six dives in the park.

April 10 (Sat) - You simply will not believe the number of excellent sites we will be diving. You should log another five and perhaps as many as seven on this day as well. Following the last dive, the captain will head north overnight into the Gulf of Mexico.

April 11 (Sun) - We dive before breakfast this morning but it is well worth the early start. We will be diving the wreck of the Baja California! Enjoy a hearty meal and then we dive the Airforce Tower before motoring back to Fort Myers. We should return to the dock between 4 and 5 PM.

Note: The itinerary is typical and may vary due to weather or safety consideratons. If you fly to Fort Myers (Southwest FL International), please plan your departure after noon on Monday to allow for a 24 hour surface interval. Please click this link for suggestions on what to bring and don't forget your dive computer!

Optional Beach Party (Sun) - For those of you who just can't stand the thought of rushing back to the cold weather, we are planning a beach party in Fort Myers on Sunday night! If a minimum of 8 divers elect this option, we will spend the evening at a beachfront hotel and enjoy a night of surf, sand, and fun!