Arriving at Garden Key in Dry Tortugas National Park by seaplane

Key West Seaplane Adventures is an authorized park concessionaire that offers seaplane transportation to Garden Key in Dry Tortugas National Park. The flights originate out of Key West International Airport. Both a half-day and a full-day excursion are available.

People opting to travel by seaplane are most likely doing so just for the experience of riding in a seaplane, because it certainly isn’t the cheapest way to go. The half-day trip is $470/person (2024 adult fare) and gets you 2.5 hours on the island, while the full-day trip costs $820/person (2024 adult fare) and allows you 6.5 hours. For comparison, the Yankee Freedom Ferry costs $220/person and gets you 4 hours on the island.

The fare does not include the park entrance fee. Currently $15 per person (2024), this fee is paid to Key West Seaplane Adventures before departing the airport unless you have already purchased a pass online at Recreation.gov. Keep in mind that you cannot hire a private seaplane to bring you to the island, as any person or company carrying paying passengers into the park must have a contract with the National Park Service. You can, however, fly your own seaplane to Dry Tortugas National Park.

Seaplane excursions are for day-trips only. Key West Seaplane Adventures does not transport campers and their gear. To camp, make a reservation on the ferry or have your own boat or seaplane. Also, the plane does not transport SCUBA gear.

As mentioned, those with their own seaplanes are welcome at Garden Key. However, you must have a Special Use Permit. Unlike a private boat that may obtain a free permit upon arrival, seaplane owners must obtain a permit in advance (fee applies). See the park’s Special Use Permit web page for more details and to download an application form. If you have questions, call the Permit Coordinator at 305-242-7042.

There is no gas at Garden Key, so be sure you have enough for the 140-mile round trip flight.

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