Let’s talk about the money part of booking a Dry Tortugas fishing charter. Since it’s a long trip far offshore, it costs more than fishing closer to Key West. It’s good to understand where your money goes so you can budget properly and avoid surprises.
Think about the distance the boat has to travel. It’s like taking a long taxi ride compared to just going across town. The farther you go, the more it costs for gas and the driver’s time. A Dry Tortugas charter is a bit like that, but for a whole boat and crew.
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The Charter Fee
This is usually the biggest part of the cost. The charter fee pays for the boat for the day (or overnight), the captain’s time and expertise, and the crew (the mate). The fee varies a lot depending on:
- Boat Size: Bigger boats cost more to run and maintain.
- Trip Length: A full-day trip (usually 10–12 hours) costs less than an overnight or multi-day trip.
- Type of Charter (Private vs. Shared):
- Private charters cost more overall because you’re paying for the whole boat. However, if you have a group, the cost per person can be very reasonable.
- Shared charters (Headboats) have a lower cost per person since you’re splitting the expense with everyone else on the boat.
- çTime of Year: Charter fees might be higher during peak fishing seasons.
If you’re not sure which option fits your needs, take a look at the differences between Dry Tortugas fishing charter boats and yachts to get a sense of what’s available.
The charter fee often includes basic fishing gear (rods, reels), bait, and the necessary fishing license for everyone on board. Always double-check what the base fee includes when you book.
Fuel
Going 70 miles out and 70 miles back uses a lot of fuel! Some charter companies include the fuel cost in their main fee. However, many companies list fuel as an extra cost. This is often called a “fuel surcharge” or the contract might state that fuel is billed separately based on usage.
Fuel prices change, so this can be a variable cost. If fuel is extra, the total trip cost will depend on how much the boat runs during the day, which is hard to know exactly ahead of time. Before you book, make sure you clarify the booking and planning details with your charter company.
Gratuities (Tips)
It’s customary to tip the captain and crew on a fishing charter if they did a good job. This is a direct way to show your appreciation for their hard work, knowledge, and help throughout the day.
A typical tip is around 15–20% of the charter fee. For example, if the charter fee is $2,000, a 15% tip would be $300. You usually give the tip to the first mate at the end of the trip, and they share it with the captain. Make sure to budget for this amount.
Food and Drink
Most charters don’t include food and drinks in the base price. You’ll need to bring your own snacks, lunch, and drinks for the trip. Since you’re out all day, pack plenty of water, and food that’s easy to eat on a boat.
Planning what to bring is essential, especially for longer trips. Here’s a packing checklist to help you prepare.
Fish Cleaning (Optional)
Sometimes, the crew will clean and fillet your catch for you at the end of the day or back at the dock. There might be an extra charge for this service, especially if you caught a lot of fish. Ask the charter company if fish cleaning is included or if there’s a separate fee.
Other Potential Costs
Less common costs might include:
- Specialized Bait or Gear: If you want to use very specific bait or rent different kinds of fishing gear, there might be an extra charge.
- Overnight Charters: These trips may have additional costs for meals provided on board or fees for docking overnight. If you’re considering one of these trips, it’s helpful to understand the different charter durations available.
Budgeting for Your Trip
To budget for a Dry Tortugas fishing charter, you need to consider:
- Base Charter Fee: Get a clear price quote.
- Fuel: Understand if it’s included or an extra cost.
- Gratuity: Budget 15–20% of the base fee for the tip.
- Food and Drink: Plan for this separately.
- Fish Cleaning: Ask if it’s an extra cost.
Don’t be afraid to ask the charter company for a clear breakdown of costs before you book. A good company will be upfront about everything. While a Dry Tortugas fishing trip is an investment, understanding the costs helps you plan and focus on the amazing fishing ahead.
If you’re still narrowing down your options or want a full picture of what’s involved, visit our Dry Tortugas Fishing Charter Guide. You’ll also find help with choosing a charter company and navigating national park fishing regulations for the area.
