News Release

Dry Tortugas National Park renews contract with Yankee Freedom for ferry service

A large white catamaran with red stripes and labeled Dry Tortugas National Park Ferry, Yankee Freedom III, sits in the water next to an island with a large brick fort topped with a black harbor light. A group of people is gathered in front of the entrance
The Yankee Freedom III ferry takes park visitors from Key West to Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park.

Photo courtesy of Yankee Freedom III LLC

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News Release Date: November 15, 2023

Contact: Media: Allyson Gantt, 786-610-8023

Contact: Park information, 305-242-7700

Dry Tortugas National Park announced the selection of Yankee Freedom III, LLC. to provide interpretive ferry service to the park. The new contract term, which begins Nov. 1, is for ten years and will provide daily ferry service to the park with departures from Key West. The company will also be responsible for providing all necessary amenities to visitors including food, drinks, snorkel equipment and other services.

“We are thrilled to continue partnering with the Yankee Freedom to provide a seamless visitor experience,” said Park Manager James Crutchfield. “Their knowledgeable and dedicated staff ensure that visitors get the most out of their visit to Dry Tortugas National Park.”

Providing transportation to the park since 1999, the Yankee Freedom offers visitors the opportunity to explore the park's pristine beaches, historic Fort Jefferson and vibrant marine life. The full-day excursion includes breakfast, lunch and activities such as a fort tour and snorkeling.

Visitors can book their ferry tickets and tours through Yankee Freedom’s website or by calling their reservation line. The company is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors while also protecting the park's natural and cultural resources.

Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote destination that offers visitors a variety of recreational and educational opportunities including birdwatching, photography, snorkeling and learning about the history of Fort Jefferson. The park is located 70 miles west of Key West and is only accessible by boat or seaplane.

For information about the selection process for concessions in the NPS, please see NPS Concessions.

For more information about Dry Tortugas National Park, visit nps.gov/drto or follow the park on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.



Last updated: November 16, 2023

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Phone:

305 242-7700

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