Posted on Tuesday, May 24, 2011
This past week we headed out to sea again – this time to the Dry Tortuga, an offshore island paradise a few Naples area boaters explore. One hundred miles offshore but well worth the half day power boat trip or all day sailboat trip.
Upon arrival we were astounded at the size of Fort Jefferson, the pre-civil war era fort built with sixteen million bricks to defend the gulf and southern US shores. Once home to its most famous prisoner Dr. Mudd of John Wilkes Booth fame, it dominates the scene. You can walk the fort, sight the old gun ports and explore and imagine life a s a builder soldier in these remote islands.
Like snorkeling? This place is for you. The reefs are just off the beach, so just put on your gear and walk off the beach and immerse yourself in clouds of fish and view the reasonably healthy reef. The Tortugsas are a national park and protected from fishing, spear fishing and other human impacts. The result is a spectacular underwater experience well worth the trip.
Don’t have a boat? No problem. From Key West take either the twice daily boat shuttle or the seaplane and get out there. Camping is also available in this paradise for the adventurous. Pitch a tent and enjoy a few nights out. And yes even with restrictions you can do some fishing and put one of those fresh snapper on the campfire at night for the freshest fish you can have.
Naples living is just a paradise. Come on down here and let us show you some southern hospitality. If you are already here let’s talk about all the great florida living options around us.
