Parks On The Air trip to Dry Tortugas

My name is Jason, and I am an Amateur Radio (HAM) operator in PA. Our local HAM community is very active, and we have been discussing plans for an expedition. Several of us have started planning a trip to Dry Tortuga's Nation Park to "activate" the park as part of the "Parks On The Air" program. Our trip is planned for February, 23rd - 26th, 2024. We will be camping on the island and plan to operate across all HF bands 80M - 6M, 2M SSB, and if we have the opportunity, will also attempt Satellite and ISS contacts.

About the POTA program:

Parks On The Air (POTA) is an amateur radio program and operating event that encourages radio enthusiasts to make contacts from designated parks, wildlife refuges, and other protected natural areas. The primary goals of POTA are to promote outdoor amateur radio activities, support conservation efforts, and foster community among ham radio operators.

Why do we want to go?

Dry Tortuga's National Park, located about 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, is a remote and breathtakingly beautiful destination that offers a unique opportunity for amateur radio enthusiasts to participate in a Parks On The Air (POTA) activation. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historical significance, this park is not only a paradise for nature lovers but also a thrilling destination for radio operators seeking to make connections and log contacts.

In addition to POTA, the park is also a contact for Islands on the Air (IOTA) and Lighthouses on the Air (LOTA).

Our plans are to activate both Garden Key as well as the Lighthouse on Loggerhead Key.

What do we need?

Access to the park is limited. The only way to reach Dry Tortuga's National Park is by ferry, private boat, or seaplane.

This makes the park a highly sought after contact in the amateur radio community around the world!

Unfortunately, getting there is a costly venture. We are looking for support from the community to help offset our costs of getting to the island, and operating for the duration of our trip. We will have limited supplies while on the island, and will be relying on batteries and solar for power for the total duration of our trip.

Your donations to this trip are most appreciated and we are so excited to be able to make this trip for the community.

Thank you in advance and we hope to hear you on the air!

73 de N8WXZ!