Plongée à Dry Tortugas — United States

The Dry Tortugas sit 70 miles west of Key West, protecting some of the healthiest coral reefs remaining in US waters. The remote location keeps diver numbers low, and the crystal waters around Fort Jefferson harbour large groupers, nurse sharks, and vibrant coral gardens. Camping on the island makes it an adventure.

Score
67.0
Visibilité
18–40m
Température
22–29°C
Meilleurs mois
April, May, June
Back to directory
World Class
Intermediate
Dry Tortugas
United StatesNorth America
67.0

SCORE

24.6285°N

-82.8732°E

The Dry Tortugas sit 70 miles west of Key West, protecting some of the healthiest coral reefs remaining in US waters. The remote location keeps diver numbers low, and the crystal waters around Fort Jefferson harbour large groupers, nurse sharks, and vibrant coral gardens. Camping on the island makes it an adventure.

Fort Jefferson's Pristine Coral Kingdom

Visibility18–40 m
Temperature22–29°C
Max Depth30 m
Currentmoderate
2-Tank Dive$180
Best MonthsApril, May, June, July
CertificationOpen WaterIntermediate

Score Breakdown

Click any score to see a detailed breakdown

ML78.0CH72.0VIS82.0SV62.0TMP80.0DA60.0OP78.0TS55.0GT35.0VAL48.0CRD82.0SP72.0

Marine Life

78.0

Species diversity, megafauna encounters, reef fish abundance, macro life, and endemic species.

Species Diversity
72
Megafauna Encounters
72
Reef Fish Abundance
80
Macro Life
62
Endemic Species
60
Marine Life Diversity
78.0
Coral & Reef Health
72.0
Visibility & Conditions
82.0
Dive Site Variety
62.0
Water Temperature
80.0
Depth & Access
60.0
Operator Quality
78.0
Topside Experience
55.0
Getting There
35.0
Value & Cost
48.0
Crowding
82.0
Social Proof
72.0

Traveling with Non-Divers?

Your non-diving travel companions will find plenty to enjoy topside while you're underwater. Here are some activities to consider.

Activities for Non-Divers

Fort Jefferson tourbird watching (sooty terns)snorkelingcamping on Garden Key

Nearby Cultural Sites

  • Fort Jefferson National Monument

Non-Diver Score

7/10

Good topside options for non-diving companions.

Family FriendlyYes
Restaurants & Nightlifenone

Safety & Emergency

Dive Insurance

DAN recommends dive insurance for all divers.

Learn more at DAN.org
Hyperbaric Chamber120 km — Mariners Hospital Chamber, Tavernier
Nearest Hospital120 km

No medical on-site; Coast Guard evacuation to Key West then Mariners Hospital for chamber

Skill LevelIntermediate
Current Strengthmoderate

Top Operators

Dive Key West

PADI

4.7
180 reviewsNITROX

Dry Tortugas Diving Expeditions

NAUI

4.6
95 reviewsNITROX