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Scuba diving In The Florida Keys 
Reef Dives
Most Reef dives in The Florida Keys are at 10-40 feet (6.1-12.2
meters). We have 60 to 100 different sites to choose from; our
captains make the choice on any given day depending on conditions
and visibility
KEY LARGO DIVE SITES
TURTLE REEF
Depth Range: 25 feet
Experience Level: Intermediate
Located at the
northernmost site of the Key Largo Marine Sanctuary, most reef
species are represented here. Site is relatively shallow, visibility
usually good as it's location protects it from the strong currents
lying beyond but it is influenced by tidal currents passing through
Hawk Channel.
CARYSFORT REEF
Depth Range: 35-70 feet
Experience Level: Intermediate
Latitude/Longitude: 25º13.80 80º12.74
Because of its distance
from the more central dive sites, comparatively few divers visit
this reef although it is of exceptional interest and beauty offering
a variety of dive options from shallow to deep dives. The shallow
upper section of the reef abounds with marine life and is perfect
for snorkelers.
CARYSFORT SOUTH
Depth Range: 20 feet
Experience Level: Intermediate
Latitude/Longitude 25º13.00 80º13.06
A natural extension of
Carysfort Reef, similar in its configuration and displays a double
reef structure. It's famous elkhorn coral gardens make this reef a
highly attractive location. South of the reef lies the remains of
the H.M.S. Winchester, a 933 ton British man-of-war that sank in
1695 after running aground on the reef.
THE ELBOW
Depth Range: 12-35 feet
Experience Level: Novice
Latitude/Longitude: 25º08.82 80º15.19
Named for the angular
shape of the reef, it is a classic example of spurs and grooves
meandering down the slope of the reef. The coral fingers are
extremely well-defined and are separated by level passages of clean
sand; some of the spurs are high enough to be considered miniwalls.
Corals and fish abound here but wrecks hold the secret to the appeal
of this site. The Civil War Wreck, a 752 ton steamer sunk in 1866
has lovely fingers of elkhorn coral situated at depths of 6-18 feet.
The remains of two more wrecks, probably a tug and a barge are also
scattered in this area.
KEY LARGO DRY ROCKS
Depth Range: Shallow to 25 feet
Experience Level: Novice
By far the most famous
dive in the Key Largo Marine Sanctuary. The Statue of Christ of the
Abyss (also known as Christ of the Deep), rests on a concrete base
located within a short canyon. This area is also celebrated for its
marvelous specimens of brain coral and the eastern side of the reef
displays classic coral fingers which are rich in marine life. Smoky,
the celebrated barracuda, is a regular here. This area also includes
Grecian Rocks an extremely popular reef among snorkelers.
GRECIAN ROCKS
Depth Range: Shallow to 25 feet
Experience Level: Novice
Grecian Rocks is an
exceptionally popular reef for snorkelers. The grass and sand on the
back side provide good anchorage, and the shallow reef buffers the
waves so the waters are very calm even on windy days. It is very
easy for snorkelers to swim from the boat up to the reefline where
the corals and brightly colored fish abound.
THE CHRIST OF THE DEEP STATUE
Depth: 25 feet
Experience Level: Novice
The Christ Statue was
cast in Italy and donated to the Underwater Society of America by
Egidi Cressi, an Italian industrialist and diving equipment
manufacturer. It is a 9 foot tall bronze duplicate of the Christ of
the Abysses statue, which stands in 50 feet of water off Genoa,
Italy. Set in a beautiful reef area known for its outstanding brain
corals, the figure of Christ stands silhouetted against the blue
waters of the ocean, His arms upraised to the surface. This dramatic
and memorable picture is one that most diving visitors to the Keys
shouldn't miss.
THE BENWOOD
Depth Range: 50 feet offshore, 20 feet inshore
Experience Level: Novice to Intermediate
Latitude/Longitude: 25º03.16 80º20.02
An English built cargo
vessel lost in a tragic chain of events in 1942. The Benwood rests
on a level expanse of sand noticeably lacking in coral growth, so
apart from the wreck itself there is comparatively little to see.
Its fractured stern lies directly beneath the marker at a depth of 2
feet, while its bow points offshore at a depth of 45 feet. The bow
section looms up out of the sand, in contrast with the rest of the
ship which is almost wholly submerged.
FRENCH REEF
Depth Range: Shallow to 100 feet
Experience Level: Novice to Advanced for deeper dives
Latitude/Longitude: 25º02.06 80º21.00
An exceptionally
beautiful site, the ever popular reef is crammed full of caves,
canyons, ledges, tunnels and swim-throughs. French Reef is home to
innumerable fish species.
BLUE HOLE
Depth Range: 30-70 feet
Experience Level: Intermediate
A relatively deep site,
slopes gently from a depth of 30 ft. down to the sandy seafloor,
depth 70 ft. To find the Blue Hole itself, look for two sand chutes
running from the slope of the reef to its base; south of the chutes
a type of mound thrusts its way upwards out of a deep canyon. The
seafloor is of clean sand, without the well-developed staghorn and
elkhorn colonies observed elsewhere.
MOLASSES REEF
Depth Range: Shallow to 40 feet
Experiece Level: Novice to Intermediate
Latitude/Longitude: 25º00.74 80º22.40
Reigns as the world's
most popular dive site. The reef comprises a classic spur and groove
system which begins near the surface and falls of gradually to a
depth of 55 ft. It is washed by the Gulf Stream, so visibility is
usually excellent. Impressive concentrations of marine flora and
fauna cover just about the entire tropical reef spectrum.
BIBB &
DUANE
Depth Range: 50-130 feet
Experience Level: Advanced
Latitude/Longitude: 24º59.71 80º22.77 (Bibb)
Latitude/Longitude: 24º59.38 80º22.92 (Duane)
Twin 327' coast guard
cutters were painstakingly sunk in 1987 as part of an artificial
reef program sponsored by the Keys Association of Dive Operators.
The Duane, more frequently dived because of her depth, lies upright
with a slight list to starboard at a depth of about 100 ft. The Bibb
overturned while sinking and lies on her starboard side; you will
begin to reach the ship's exterior at a depth of 95 ft. Both ships
are a equally rewarding dive with a fascinating history. With
extremely powerful currents you may occasionally have to postpone
your dive.
ISLAMORADA DIVE SITES
PICKLES REEF
Depth Range: 10-25 feet
Experience Level: Novice to Intermediate
Latitude/Longitude: 24º59.23 80º24.88
An elongated reef with
familiar spurs and grooves configurations; an excellent place for a
second dive. The combination of shallow reef and sandy seafloor is
full of possibilities for excellent macro photography.
CONCH REEF
Depth Range: Shallow to 100 feet
Experience Level: Novice to Advanced
Latitude/Longitude: 24º57.11 80º27.57
The most remarkable
aspect of this reef is its proliferation of barrel sponges covering
much of the reef area; the second is its depth. The upper section of
the slope lies at an average depth of 50 ft., but its base extends
to 90 ft. where a wide strip of sand running parallel to the reef
lends added definition to its contours. You will observe a variety
of gorgonians and reef species, and thanks to the depth its not
unusual to view pelagic fish.
LITTLE CONCH REEF
Depth Range: 30 feet
Experience Level: Intermediate
Latitude/Longitude: 24º56.49 80º28.59
A level, comparatively
long reef full of coral heads, rocks, low profile spurs and grooves,
crisscrossed by ledges especially in its western section. Tube
sponges and seafan colonies grace the area.
THE SAN JOSE AND THE INFANTE
Depth Range: 12-15 feet
Experience Level: Novice
Latitude/Longitude: 14º10.85 43º26.77
Two galleons belonging
to the famous Silver Plate Fleet of 1733 were lost in a hurricane
off the Keys and went down within a mile of one another. Not much is
left of the Infante except some timber planking originally from the
ship's deck and ballast stones of all shapes and sizes scattered
over roughly an acre. The San Jose collided with the sand flats, her
stern section disintegrated and became detached from the main hull
which sank another 200 yards awsay with its ballast stones.
DAVIS REEF
Depth Range: Shallow to 80 feet
Experience Level: Novice
Latitude/Longitude: 24º55.58 80º30.10
A popular outer reef on
the edge of a flat shallow bank. Hugh schools of fish have made this
reef famous along with four green morays who are permanent residents
here. Another attraction adorning this reef is a statue of a Buddha
that sits on a concrete block in the middle of a sand plain.
NOAA HABITAT, AQUARIUS U/W RESEARCH FACILITY
Depth Range: 40-60 feet
Experience Level: Novice - Advanced
The NOAA Habitat is a
manned sea lab resting in 62 feet of water. One of three underwater
habitats in the world (the other two are also located in Key
Largo!), this research facility is used to conduct studies and
record oceanographic data on our marine environment. One of the
"fishiest" places in the Florida Keys, this artificial reef has
become an extremely popular diving spot. Due to mooring
requirements, good knowledge of u/w navigation is recommended.
(Editors Note: The Habitat has been removed due to our government's
budget restrictions but we hope it will return someday
soon...towards that end we will continue to list the area.....it is
still a wonderful dive.)
CROCKER REEF
Depth Range: 40-80 feet
Experience Level: Intermediate
Latitude/Longitude: 24º54.20 80º31.60
An extensive collection
of formations which should probably be treated as a series of
individual dive sites each with its own name.
THE EAGLE
Depth Range: 75-120 feet
Experience Level: Advanced
Latitude/Longitude: 24º54.18 80º34.20
A 287' freighter, sunk
in 1985 as part of the Florida Keys Artificial Reef Associaton
program, forms an artificial reef which has brought enjoyment to
thousands of divers. She has remained generally intact, apart from
eight gaping holes in her side and although the wreck rests at a
depth of 110 ft, you will begin to encounter her superstructure at
75 ft. Because of the Eagle's comparatively remote location beyond
the protective confines of the reef, the state of the current will
be a vitally important factor in determining your dive plan here.
HENS & CHICKENS REEF
Depth Range: 20-22 feet
Experience Level: Novice
Latitude/Longitude: 24º55.90 80º32.90
A group of patch reefs
whose coral formations from the air appear to radiate outwards from
the center like a mother hen surrounded by chickens. A shallow
inshore site this reef displays a remarkable proliferation of fish
and corals.
ALLIGATOR REEF
Depth Range: 25-30 feet
Experience Level: Intermediate
Latitude/Longitude: 24º50.72 80º36.93
The reef was named after
the USS Alligator, a schooner which ran aground here in 1825 and
whose remains are still visible in the open waters southeast of its
famous light tower. The reef displays spurs and grooves coursing
down a moderate slope as well as more isolated coral heads. It is
especially noted for its size, its deep ravines and intricately
patterned coral crevices.
MARATHON DIVE SITES
SOMBRERO REEF
Depth Range: 6-25 feet
Experience Level: Novice
Latitude/Longitude: 24º37.50 81º06.50
Marked by Sombrero
Light, this beautiful reef features well-defined spurs or fingers of
reef building corals separated by wide channels of gleaming white
sand. Brilliant colors and diverse marine life make this a most
popular dive site along with a eight feet high natural coral bridge
known as "The Arch".
DELTA SHOAL
Depth Range: 6-25 feet
Experience Level: Novice
Latitude/Longitude: 24º37.78 81º05.49
Another popular dive
site eastward of Sombrero Light, features massive coral fingers and
broad expanses of sandy bottom that separate the spurs that form
this reef. Two interesting wrecks lie in this area - the Delta
Shoals Barge behind the east end features typical shallow water soft
corals and an abundance of fish life, perfect for snorkeling. The
other is the Ivory Coast Wreck, a sunken slave ship lost in 1853,
although little is recognizable any more.
MARATHON'S MIDDLE REEFS/COFFINS PATCH
Depth Range: 10-25 feet
Experience Level: Novice
Marathon has a wide
variety of prime shallow dive locations throughout their middle
reefs. Most are typically no deeper than 25 ft. and all feature an
abundance of fish and a variety of coral growth.
THUNDERBOLT
Depth Range: 75-120 feet
Experience Level: Advanced
Latitude/Longitude: 24º39.48 80º57.90
A 188 ft. research
vessel once used for studying lightning and sunk in 1986, rests
upright in 120 feet of water. At 85 feet, her bow is dominated by a
huge horizontal reel, dropping over the stern of the vessel divers
can examine huge twin props. Large hatches off the main deck open
into the engine compartments where it is possible to descend into
the hull to 110 feet.
LOWER KEYS DIVE SITES
LOOE KEY REEF
Depth Range: 5-35 feet
Experience Level: Novice to Intermediate and Advanced
One of the loveliest and
most prolific reefs in the Keys. The frigate, H.M.S. Looe,
accidently ran hard aground in 1744; remains of the ship lie between
two fingers of coral near the eastern end of the reef although only
the ballast and anchor remain visible to the trained eye. Totally
unlike any of the reefs in the Keys, containing a variety of corals,
monastera, sea fans and innumerable fish species this makes for an
exceptional diving experience. Looe Key is a designated marine
sanctuary.
ADOLPHUS BUSCH
Depth Range: maximum depth 110 feet
Experience Level: Advanced
Located about 5 miles
off shore of Cudjoe Key, it is 3 miles west of Looe Key. The
Adolphus Busch was cleaned and prepared for divers with large holes
cut for nice swim through and was sunk December 1998 as an
artificial reef. There are three resident Jewfish living on the
wreck and are seen on many dives. The largest weights in at about
400 pounds. The ship is 210 feet long and the maximum depth is 110
feet, a very good dive for nitrox. This dive should be considered
an advanced dive and divers wishing to dive the ship should have an
Advanced Open Water certification or plan to be accompanied by an
instructor or divemaster.
CONTENT KEYS
Depth Range: 8-15 feet
Experience Level: Novice
Positioned on the Gulf
side southwest of Marathon, this area is sheltered by the Keys and
is a good alternative for shallow diving on a windy day. Rounded
starlet corals grow here and numerous potholes and cracks in the
coral rock make this an ideal home for both lobster and stone crab.
SOUTH BEACH PATCHES
Depth Range: 15 feet
Experience Level: Novice to Intermediate
Scores of coral patches
and reefs run along the southern shore of Key West. The most
prominent ones are off the foot of Duval Street, Simonton Street,
Casa Marina Hotel, Bertha Street, main bathing beach and off the
airport. Almost any fish life that you might normally find on the
outside reef can be found here.
KEY WEST HARBOR
Depth Range: 30 feet
Experience Level: Advanced
Watch for heavy
commercial boat traffic in this harbor which has been in use since
the middle of the 16th century. At the north end of Simonton Street
is a public boat ramp and dingly landing area that gives access to
this advanced diving area. Interesting artifacts have been found in
this location.
SAND KEY
Depth Range: Awash to 3-65 feet
Experience Level: All Levels
Latitude/Longitude: 24º27.19 81º52.58
Probably the most
popular dive and snorkeling spots in the Lower Keys, it is a simple
ground-up coral and small shell island without vegetation, topped by
a red iron lighthouse bult in 1853 and now on the historical
register. The reef itself consists mostly of rock fingers and
gullies with sandy bottoms between cliff-like structures and
extensive areas of staghorn and elkhorn coral.
OUTSIDE REEFS
Depth Range: 40-210 feet
Experience Level: Intermediate and Advanced
For the more experienced
diver, all along the Keys south of the main shallow reefs, are the
Gulf Stream reefs. A prolific gallery of deep-water corals and fish,
these deep dives are different from anything anywhere else in the
Keys.
ROCK KEY AND EASTERN DRY ROCKS
Depth Range: 5-35 feet
Experience Level: All levels
Latitude/Longitude: 24º27.21 81º51.60 (Rock Key)
Latitude/Longitude: 24º27.50 81º50.44 (Dry Rocks)
Two popular dive spots
typical of most reef formations in the area with long fingers of
coral with sand and coral-filled canyons in between. But their real
claim to fame are their 19th century wrecks - providing huge
quantities of ballast and artifacts.
WESTERN DRY ROCKS
Depth Range: 5-120 feet
Experience Level: Novice to Advanced
Further away from
popular reefs closer to Key West, this area has not suffered the
reef damage associated with heavy usage. Large quantities of elkhorn
and staghorn coral, numerous crevices and caves, and large marine
life make this well worth a long trip.
ALEXANDER'S WRECK
Depth Range: 30 feet
Experience Level: Novice to Advanced
A destroyer escort,
purchased from the Navy and sunk by local commercial salvor Chet
Alexander, is a popular dive spot but only occasionally visited by
commercial dive boats. The wreck is broken in half, with the stern
section lying 150 yards or so north of the bow, whih is awash on
most tides. Despite the fact that part of the hull is clear of the
water, the wreck is difficult to see - a number of captains have hit
the jagged metal tear that juts above the water, ruining props and
rudders. This former navy vessel lies on its side and is home for
thousands of fish and the hull itself is covered with Leavy oysters.
THE AQUANAUT
Depth Range: 75 feet
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
One of Chet Alexander's
other dive sites is the wreck of the tugboat Aquanaut. This
55' wooden salvage tug sits upright in 75 feet of water on the edge
of the Gulfstream on a flat sandy bottom. The tug is intact and in
nearly perfect condition. The wreck hosts a variety of fish life,
when on the deck of the ship a macro closeup lens is very useful.
JOE'S TUG
Depth Range: 65 feet
Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
A small tugboat,
discovered recently by a local diver, sits upright and is an easy
swim through. Open access to the wheel house and aft deck make this
an enjoyable dive. Visibility is usually good due to its location
outside of the reef and offers a great photographic location with a
wide variety of corals and marine life.
COTTRELL REEF (GULF SIDE REEF)
Depth Range: 3-15 feet
Experience Level: Novice or Intermediate
An excellent reef for
beginning snorkelers and an alternative dive spot when the weather
is bad on the Atlantic side of the Keys. Covered with gorgonians and
sponges, the ledges and banks of this reef provide a wide variety of
reef fish.
THE LAKES
Depth Range: 5-30 feet
Experience Level: All Levels
A fascinating snorkeling
area, this shallow area is a series of grassy flats and banks
completely encompassing a shallow lagoon protected by a string of
islands and reefs directly west of Key West.
MARQUESAS KEYS
Depth Range: 5-30 feet
Experience Level: All Channels
The only known atoll in
the Atlantic Ocean. The circle of islands is about 3.5 miles across
and 22 miles west of Key West and like most of the lower Keys is a
bird sanctuary and National Wilderness Area. Wrecks in this area
attract large marine life and huge clusters of coral heads can be
found off the entire southern edge of the islands in about 8-12 feet
of water. Several of the islands have long, white, sandy beaches and
excellent anchorages can be found.
Outstanding scuba diving and snorkeling. |
