From Key West we took a high-speed boat for 90 minute ride to the "Dry Torturgas". Dry means there is no fresh water; tortuga is Spanish for turtle. The name was used on maps so sailing ships would know not to bother looking for water here. |
This army fort/prison was built from about 1800 through 1860. The only way to get here is by boat or plane. This is the least visited National Park in the country. |
Jack and Paul were here in October '99. Our tour package included the round trip boat ride, lunch, snorkel gear, and about 3 hours on the island and reef. |
We swam across to the other island and hiked along the shore. About 1/2 way down the island it is a bird sanctuary and we couldn't walk any farther. |
Along the seawall on the perimeter of the island. In late October the water was warm but cloudy because of a recent hurricane. So the snorkeling wasn't the best, but still fun. |
Jack. |
The park rangers gave tours of the old fort and explained all the building functions. The construction of the place was an amazing feat in itself. We learned a lot about daily life there; fresh water and sewage was a problem. |
The rooms for the 19th century artillery were fascinating and unbelievable. During yellow fever outbreaks, the men were quarantined (sent to die actually) to smaller island nearby. All in all, not the vacation spot it is today. |
The air temperature was upper 80's |
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This is a very beautiful and interesting place to visit. |
It was really the highlight of our trip to Florida. I didn't even know the place existed. Now I recommend to everyone who is visiting Key West. |
| Photo Album List | Florida '99 Album |