May 9, 1513

Today we arrived onto the island. There I saw an amazing spectacle. There were hundreds of turtles nesting on the beach and laying eggs. This is why I named the island the Tortugas, which is Spanish for turtles. There was not much else on the island. I found no fresh water anywhere on the island and that is why I added the word dry to the front of the islands name so now it is the Dry Tortugas. I think that it is time I return to Spain to share my findings. I have not found the fountain of youth. But I have acquired much land and other things the king will enjoy. So I do not feel remorseful, my findings were bounteous and I will return to Spain a hero.