Reef Dives: St Pete Beach Reef

This artificial reef is just over five miles out from the Pass-A-Grille Channel Entrance Marker #2 and is a favorite spot for fishermen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTOWEIr43_0

St Pete Beach Reef Tampa Wiki

[caption id="attachment_537" align="alignleft" width="300"] St Pete Beach Reef Tampa[/caption]

The reef was is about 300 feet in length and was started in 1976 when large concrete sections of the Old Corey Causeway and Skyway Bridge were sunk in about 30 feet of water.

In 1984 a 200-foot steel barge was scuttled 50 feet east of the reef's center.

The U.S. Army deployed 10 obsolete combat vehicles in 1995.

A yellow buoy marks the general location of the U.S. Army tanks. (via Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jop93vcbWdQ

The article Reef Dives: St Pete Beach Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: South County Artificial Reef

This artificial reef site was developed in 2001-2003 and consists of tons of concrete rubble piles and a 100-year-old tug named Orange.

The site is well-marked with buoys and home to large amounts of fish.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IvSYIlkHNo

South County Artificial Reef Tampa Wiki

The South County Artificial Reef Site lies 11 miles out from the Pass-A-Grille entrance marker and 10 miles from the St. John's Pass entrance marker.

[caption id="attachment_533" align="alignleft" width="300"] South County Artificial Reef Tampa[/caption]

South County is a quarter-mile square artificial reef area in which two reefs have been developed. The center of the square is marked by a yellow buoy.

The first reef developed, known as "Site One", consists of 700 tons of concrete debris, light poles, and bridge pilings that were placed in 45 feet of water in October 2001.

Site One has a round, white mooring buoy. The main concrete rubble pile is about 90 feet long, 25 feet wide and ranges from 15-17 feet high.

About 25 feet to the south are five smaller piles of rubble and 75 feet to the north are five more satellite piles. These smaller piles are about 10 feet in profile.

The second site developed in South County is the Tug Orange. This one-hundred-year old tug was sunk in 2003. The Orange is marked with a buoy attached to its bow.

Near the bottom of the rubble live grouper and black sea bass. Enormous schools of baitfish attract kingfish, jacks, Spanish mackerel and bonita to the tops of the piles. (courtesy Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymG0If9E8Dc

The article Reef Dives: South County Artificial Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Sheridan

Cool Wreck to check out. Lots of stuff to see and take pics of.

The Sheridan is a tug that was sunk off the coast of Clearwater as part of Florida’s Artificial Reef Program. The Sheridan was not blown apart to be sunk, instead it was sunk by opening tru-hull fittings and allowing the water to flow in.

This non-destructive method of sinking the boat has kept this wreck in beautiful diving condition.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uN8rQj66Xtw

Sheridan Wreck Clearwater Tampa Wiki

The Sheridan was a 180 foot long ocean tug boat that sank inside the Pinellas #2 Artificial Reef Site near Tampa and Clearwater.

[caption id="attachment_529" align="alignleft" width="300"] Sheridan Wreck Tampa[/caption]

The wreck lies fully upright, intact and lists slightly to starboard. She has many openings for entering the wreck which we only advise for experienced wreck divers.

Its deepest sections are at 75 feet of water while the top can be found at only forty feet below the surface. So, when diving at this dive site, you can see parts of the ship during your whole dive.

Many consider the Sheridan to be one of the best wreck dives in the Tampa/Clearwater area.

The Sheridan is home to several Goliath Grouper and barracuda and always has lots of marine life to observe. Spanish mackerel, amberjack, crevelle jack, trigger fish, snapper, and even the occasional shark frequent the reef site.

This is a great spot to take pictures of some large grouper.

Advanced wreck divers will enjoy exploring the open compartments. The tug lists about 50 degrees to starboard with its prop in place. The top of the wreck can be reached at 25-30 feet.

The wreck is surrounded by concrete culverts and tires. (courtesy Divebuddy)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjtZuKdHyFw

The article Wreck Dives: Sheridan was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Gunsmoke

The Gunsmoke is an interesting wreck dive. The old shrimper sits in 80 feet of water about 20 miles offshore. She is listing to starboard and has collapsed at midship.

Shrimp nets are draped across the rigging.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDnkBzvpxrc

Gunsmoke Wreck Tampa Wiki

The Gunsmoke was an old shrimper that was being used to smuggle marijuana into Florida.

[caption id="attachment_524" align="alignleft" width="300"] Gunsmoke Wreck Tampa[/caption]

In 1977, the 65 foot Gunsmoke was scuttled by her crew. The Coast Guard found only a few floating bales of marijuana when they arrived at the scene.

One report tells of government divers finding a dead crew member, who was shot in the head, below deck.

We may never know exactly what happened aboard the Gunsmoke that day, but today this old shrimper, sitting in 80 feet of water off St. Pete, is one of the most spectacular wreck dives in the area.

She lies with a slight starboard list, 24 miles from John's Pass. (via Shipwreckexpo)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4dJKPW0lWs

 

The article Wreck Dives: Gunsmoke was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Blackthorn

Located in 80 feet of water, this 180 foot Coast Guard Tender lies about 20 miles offshore in the Pinellas Artificial Reef Site #2.

Broken into 2 large sections that lie upside down, this wreck attracts a large variety of marine life from Goliath Grouper to Whale Sharks.

Not recommended for penetration due to poor visibility from excessive silt, this is an intermediate/advanced dive site. (Adiscuba)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TEcGiSXlCQ

Blackthorn Wreck Tampa Wiki

USCGC Blackthorn (WLB-391) was a 180-foot (55 m) seagoing buoy tender (WLB) which sank in 1980 in a collision near the Tampa Bay Sunshine Skyway Bridge, resulting in 23 crew member fatalities.

An Iris-class vessel, she was built by Marine Ironworks and Shipbuilding Corporation in Duluth, Minnesota.

[caption id="attachment_517" align="alignleft" width="267"] courtesy of Wikipedia[/caption]

Blackthorn's preliminary design was completed by the United States Lighthouse Service and the final design was produced by Marine Iron and Shipbuilding Corporation in Duluth.

On 21 May 1943 the keel was laid, she was launched on 20 July 1943 and commissioned on 27 March 1944. The original cost for the hull and machinery was $876,403.

Blackthorn was one of 39 original 180-foot (55 m) seagoing buoy tenders built between 1942-1944. All but one of the original tenders, USCGC Ironwood (WLB-297), were built in Duluth.

The Accident: Blackthorn was outward bound from Tampa Bay on the night of 28 January 1980. Meanwhile, the tanker Capricorn, owned by Kingston Shipping Company and operated by Apex Marine Corporation of New York, was standing (traveling with right-of-way) into the bay.

Damage to the Blackthorn from the initial impact was not extensive. However, Capricorn's anchor was ready to be let go. The anchor became embedded in the Blackthorn's hull and ripped open the port side above the water line.

Then as the two ships backed away from each other, the chain became taut. The force of the much larger ship pulling on it, caused Blackthorn to tip on her side until she suddenly capsized.

Six off-duty personnel who had mustered when they heard the collision alarm were trapped inside the ship. Several crew members who had just reported aboard tried to escape and in the process trapped themselves in the engine room. Although 27 crewmen survived the collision, 23 perished. (courtesy Wikipedia)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gxmy5EX3jgA

The article Wreck Dives: Blackthorn was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Horseshoe Reef

Great site with three horseshoe shaped re-entrants to the reef. Grouper, snapper, large moray eels, trumpet fish, & spotted drums have been seen here.

Large numbers of small barracuda are common. The eastern side of the ledge has great ledges as well.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wSARtF4YDM

Horseshoe Reef West Palm Beach Wiki

Located in 40-60 feet of water, 10 miles south of the Palm Beach Inlet, 1 mile NE of the Lake Worth Pier, this

[caption id="attachment_514" align="alignleft" width="300"] Horseshoe Reef West Palm Beach[/caption]

natural reef system features a wall drop-off as well as some caves, undercuts, ledges and holes that attract marine life.

The top of this reef is covered in soft sponges, corals and gorgonians.

Frequently visited by by Hawksbill and Loggerhead turtles during summer months, schools of baitfish and other marine life make the area their home. (Adiscuba)

Horseshoe Reef is a ledge system popular with drift divers.

This is a great reef system. If you have good air consumption and if the current Gods are with you, the trip from the beginning of the reef to the Horseshoe can be made with time to play inside the horseshoe, located at the North end of the reef. (Divebuddy)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Rt0_wEoEtw

The article Reef Dives: Horseshoe Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Gilbert Sea

Gilbert Sea MV was a former drug smuggling vessel which was seized when docked in the Miami River. The vessel was donated to the Palm Beach County Artificial Reef Program.

Deployed in February 2002.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SaXcnvjksE8

Gilbert Sea Wreck West Palm Beach Wiki

[caption id="attachment_510" align="alignleft" width="300"] Gilbert Sea Wreck West Palm Beach[/caption]

Located in 90 feet of water 1.5 miles from the Palm Beach Inlet, this intermediate/advanced dive site is the wreck of the Gilbert Sea.

Its wheelhouse is covered in painted murals and is becoming known for its tropical and game fish.

This boat is part of the Governor's River Walk reef project.

Governor’s River Walk Reef is approximately 1½ miles south of the Lake Worth Inlet in about 90 ft. of water. It is due east of the natural reef, South Double Ledges.

There are 4 ships that make up Governor's River Walk, the Gilbert Sea, ShaSha Boekanier, St. Jacques, and Thozina. (Adiscuba)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wDlCOhk2ag

The article Wreck Dives: Gilbert Sea was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Flower Gardens

The Flower Gardens has an amazing ecosystem with large fish, sponges, corals, and grunts making this ledge a dive filled with life and vivid colors.

The Flower Gardens has a shallow ledge that contains both an inside and outside drop.  The outside ledge has several fingers and starts at 40 feet then slopes down to 70 feet.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_LtOUUmbqTE

Flower Gardens West Palm Beach Wiki

An outside edge, with several fingers extending seaward.

[caption id="attachment_506" align="alignleft" width="300"] Flower Garden West Palm Beach[/caption]

Depths about 52 feet on top of the fingers, 70 feet in sand between.

Edges on both sides and west end of the fingers.

In bright sunshine, perhaps the most colorful reef in the area.

Profuse sponge and coral growth, and clouds of grunts so large fellow divers cannot be seen on the other side of the school.

All the common reef fish in abundance. (courtesy Wadespage)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lkqp_50xXIE

The article Reef Dives: Flower Gardens was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Cable Crossing

This reef takes its name from the large communication cable that runs through the area. The reef lies in 25 feet of water and consists of a series of 4- to 5-foot ledges and mini caves.

This is the standard Palm Beach drift dive. Excellent for beginners.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBRwsJ_mOmg

Cable Crossing West Palm Beach Wiki

Located in 20 feet of water, just south of the Breakers Hotel, this natural reef is a series of ledges from 4 to 5 feet

[caption id="attachment_502" align="alignleft" width="300"] Cable Crossing West Palm Beach[/caption]

in length and is peppered with holes that house juvenile fish and other marine life.

This is perfect for the novice and for snorkeling or just passing time during your surface intervals before you can go back down.

This site gets its name from the large communications cable that runs through the area.

Very close to but not actually a part of the Breakers Reef. (Adiscuba)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBRDDiJicAE

The article Reef Dives: Cable Crossing was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Breakers Reef

Breaker’s Reef is an excellent drift dive area running nearly two miles north and south with dramatic undercut ledges, overhangs, and swim-throughs.

Don't be surprised if you come across Goliath grouper, a school of squid or loggerhead turtles.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2K3nFn4ZWAo

Breakers Reef West Palm Beach Wiki

The Breakers Reef system runs for nearly 2 miles off the beach front hotel that gives it the name.

It's the most heavily dived reef in the area for the reason that it's be best in the area.

Every form of native sea life resides here, and in great numbers.

Breakers Shallow

[caption id="attachment_498" align="alignleft" width="300"] Breakers Reef West Palm Beach[/caption]

An inside ledge 30 feet in the sand with fingers and undercuts. Rises 8-10 feet in places to 20 feet on top.

No current, plenty of juvenile tropicals and many invertebrates. This site frequently used by instructors to give students their first saltwater dives, and frequented by private boats.

One of the few places in the Riviera Beach area where the 30 foot reefline is well developed.

Breakers South

Broken patchy inside reef with not much definition to the edge. Over 200 yards across at widest point.

Patches of sand throughout the reef, many small ledges and undercuts. Good lobster territory, as many hiding places.

Many individual ecosystems as tropicals find lots of hiding places. Depth 49 feet on top sloping to about 60. (via WadesPage)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXKSaWgYIb4

The article Reef Dives: Breakers Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Bath and Tennis

Located in water ranging from 40-65 feet deep, this natural reef is just east of Mar-a-Lago, the “Trump” seaside mansion and directly offshore from the Bath and Tennis Club of Palm Beach (its namesake).

If you come inshore to very shallow water – about 10 feet deep, you’ll find the sand is discolored – this is where an old shipwreck lies.

Not much is left to see – but the reef itself is abundant with marine life and the little nooks and holes in the reef house lobster. (Adiscuba)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4N6rBXZ4p8

Bath & Tennis Reef West Palm Beach Wiki

In bright sunshine Bath & Tennis reef becomes alive with colors.

[caption id="attachment_494" align="alignleft" width="300"] Bath and Tennis Reef West Palm Beach[/caption]

Depths in this area range from 43 feet to 65 feet.

Inshore in 10 feet of water the remnants of a vintage shipwreck can be seen.

Locating this area may be difficult so look for the discoloration of the bottom sand.

The entire area is oblong in shape and is about 1/4 mile long. The current is generally not an issue at this location.

Broken edges and stretches of ridges provide areas for schools of fish and lobsters to reside. (Source: Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsyESIaRA3k

The article Reef Dives: Bath and Tennis was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Amaryllis Wreck

Located in 85 feet of water a mile NE of the Palm Beach Inlet and just 300 yards from the Mizpah – this 445 foot banana freighter has its upper deck removed, but the lower deck and helm are intact.

The engines and mechanical systems are covered with soft corals and attract a wide variety of marine life.(Adiscuba)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlUc-B9jB_g

Amaryllis Wreck West Palm Beach Wiki

Amaryllis was a cargo ship built in 1945 at Burrard Dry Dock in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

[caption id="attachment_489" align="alignleft" width="280"] courtesy of Shipwreckexpo[/caption]

She was 441.6 feet (134.6 m) long and measured 7,147 gross register tons.

Originally named Cromwell Park, she was built for the government of Canada to be used in World War II.

In 1946 she was sold to Canadian Transportation Co. Ltd. which renamed her the Harmac Vancouver. In 1948, she was sold to Greek shipowner Kydoniefs, renamed the Amaryllis and registered in Panama.

In 1965, she ran aground during Hurricane Betsy off the coast of Florida and was later sunk offshore as an artificial reef. (Wikipedia)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2PRsGUTRGE

The article Wreck Dives: Amaryllis Wreck was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dive: Hog Heaven

Hog Heaven is a 180-foot barge that lies upside down in 64 feet of water. Another barge, the Wayne, is close by along with debris sunk to help reefs form.

Easy dive. Some current at the surface, much less at the bottom. Beautiful artificial reef with an abundance of marine life. Plenty jacks, angelfish, and stingray.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQwhZjN7RlU

Hog Heaven Wreck Fort Lauderdale Wiki

Hog Heaven is a 180-foot barge that lies upside down in 64 feet of water.

[caption id="attachment_484" align="alignleft" width="300"] Hog Heaven Fort Lauderdale[/caption]

While traveling to be sunk as an artificial reef, this ship flipped upside down.

The barge was owned by Western Contractors Company of Iowa and was sunk in 1986.

In 1988, a dredge pipe and concrete bridge beams were added to the site to help foster the formation of an artificial reef.

In the same area is the 70-foot barge, Wayne, about 200 feet northeast. The remains of the Pacific Reef Lighthouse are also nearby. This debris was sunk in 1989 to form an artificial reef. (courtesy of Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AS8DFDmddRI

The article Wreck Dive: Hog Heaven was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dive: Hammerhead Reef

Hammerhead is a reef that extends for over two miles from the Dania Pier almost to Port Everglades Cut.

A great spot for a reef drift dive.  In places, this coral reef reaches to 24′ from the sand and has nooks and crannies, ledges and overhangs that are great hiding spots for lobsters, turtles, eels and fish.

Southern Stingrays are frequently spotted here as well. (via Seaxp.com)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aud42huzjWg

Hammerhead Reef Fort Lauderdale Wiki

Beginning a half-mile south of Port Everglades, Hammerhead Reef stretches for 2.5 miles and ends at the Dania Pier.

[caption id="attachment_480" align="alignleft" width="300"] Hammerhead Reef Fort Lauderdale[/caption]

The base of the reef lies in 80 feet of water on the eastern side and in 60 feet on the western side.

The reef rises to as high as 18 feet in some places.

Hammerhead Reef contains many undercuts and ledges which provide shelter for an abundance of tropical marine life.

Southern Stingrays can often be found buried in the sand along the edges of the reef.

This is a popular drift dive for both private and charter dive boats. (courtesy of Lauderdale Diver)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZvd7b1kfWA

The article Reef Dive: Hammerhead Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dive: Hall of Fame Moorings

The Hall of Fame Moorings consist of a series of ledges marked by nine buoys. Depths at this site begin at 15 feet and reach down to 30 feet.

Many ledge and undercuts with great sealife.

A comfortable where divers feel safe and in control with very little current very good visibility and not many obstacles.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zke_vgD4X6g

Hall of Fame Moorings Fort Lauderdale Wiki

[caption id="attachment_476" align="alignleft" width="300"] Hall of Fame Moorings Fort Lauderdale[/caption]

Natural ledges marked by nine buoys six miles north of the Port Everglades Cut.

Depths of 15-30 feet make this a good novice dive site.

This site consists of a series of natural ledges and is marked by nine buoys.

Depths from 15 to 30 feet and the large numbers of tropical fish that live in the area make this site a great dive for photographers and for the novice diver. (via Adiscuba)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OqBms6jy94

The article Reef Dive: Hall of Fame Moorings was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Guy Harvey

Sunk in 1997, the Guy Harvey has quickly become one of Broward County's most popular artificial reefs. The 170-foot former freighter sits on the bottom in 140 feet of water.

Harvey, a well-known marine artist, requested that the wreck be prepared for divers. Silhouettes painted by Harvey on the sides of the hull are gone but have been replaced by sea fans and sponges.

Though the wreck's hull sits below the recreational diving limit, a disciplined diver can explore the main deck and wheelhouse at 100 to 120 feet. (via SPortsDiver)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsGwwR56UnE

Guy Harvey Wreck Fort Lauderdale Wiki

The Guy Harvey was built in Holland in 1957, this 185 foot freighter spent the last of her 10 years sailing between Haiti and the Lesser Antilles as the Lady Kimberly.

[caption id="attachment_472" align="alignleft" width="300"] Guy Harvey Wreck Fort Lauderdale[/caption]

She was sunk in 144 feet of water on May 10, 1997 courtesy of Guy Harvey and the Pompano Fishing Rodeo.

The Guy Harvey is 185' long and 30ft wide. The ship sits upright with the bow pointing south.

Large fish murals were painted by world renown wildlife artist Guy Harvey. White paint was used to stand out against the ocean blue; however, they have since been covered with growth.

This is a deep dive and borderlines a Tech. Dive. Deep diving experience is required. (South Florida Diving)

Guy Harvey: Guy Harvey (born 16 September 1955) is a Jamaican marine wildlife artist and conservationist.

His depictions of sealife, especially of sportfish such as marlin, are popular with sportfishermen and have been reproduced in prints, posters, T-shirts, jewellery, clothing, and other consumer items.

Harvey is also a very vocal and active advocate for marine conservation, having established the Guy Harvey Research Institute (GHRI) at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida as well as the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, an organisation that funds scientific research and educational initiatives. (Wikipedia)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDaD_coEPoc

The article Wreck Dives: Guy Harvey was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Donal G. McAllister

This 101-foot former New York harbor boat now lies in 75 feet of water and rises 30 feet off the sea floor. For the advanced SCUBA diver, the pilothouse and cargo hold can be penetrated.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ue1gw9bE0tk

Donal G. McAllister Wreck Fort Lauderdale Wiki

[caption id="attachment_466" align="alignleft" width="300"] Donal G. McAllister Wreck[/caption]

Lying in 75 feet of water and rising 30 feet off the bottom, this 101 foot wreck is more for the advanced diver.

This ship was sunk in June of 1998 as part of the Broward County Artificial Reef Program.

Originally a New York harbor boat, the 101 foot vessel lies in about 75 feet of water.

Anemones, sponges and soft corals have populated the railings and decks and the pilothouse and cargo hold can be accessed by advanced SCUBA divers or certified wreck divers. (via Adiscuba)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8wNNoh91OA

The article Wreck Dives: Donal G. McAllister was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Copenhagen

Dive boats often visit the shallow wreck, which is popular with local scuba divers and snorkelers. With an estimated 10,000 visitors per year, it is by far the most popular underwater preserve in the state.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbufLOnJSe8

SS Copenhagen Wreck Fort Lauderdale Wiki

SS Copenhagen is a shipwreck off the town of Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Florida, United States.

The single screw steamer was built in Sunderland, England in 1898, sinking in 1900.

[caption id="attachment_461" align="alignleft" width="247"] courtesy of nps.gov[/caption]

Located on the Pompano Dropoff reef south of Hillsboro Inlet, it became the fifth Florida Underwater Archaeological Preserve when it was dedicated in 1994.

There is a plaque noting this distinction south of the wreck.

This was followed on 31 May 2001 with its addition to the US National Register of Historic Places. (Wikipedia)

A 19th-century steel-hulled schooner-rigged screw steamship, the SS Copenhagen was constructed in Sunderland, England.

It was registered in Glasgow, Scotland, to the Glasgow Shipowners Company, Ltd., which used the vessel to transport cargo across the Atlantic. Launched in 1898, the Copenhagen met a watery grave only two years later during a voyage between Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Havana, Cuba.

The Copenhagen was transporting some 4,940 tons of coal when, without warning, it ran aground and became stranded on a reef.

The crew began to unload cargo and efforts were made to free the ship from the reef but, ultimately, the vessel was abandoned. (Further reading at nps.gov)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILKekp3oggU

The article Wreck Dives: Copenhagen was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Capt Dan

The Captain Dan is a 175' long Coast Guard Tender. The bow points south and the ship is standing at attention upright at 110'.

The top of the wheelhouse is around 80'. The Dan is covered with fish. You never know what you will see here, there has been 2 whale shark sightings here, a day and a year apart.

Large barracuda, grouper, amberjack, and other schools of fish frequent this wreck.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAqfXzyGKmI

Capt. Dan Wreck Fort Lauderdale Wiki

[caption id="attachment_458" align="alignleft" width="300"] Capt. Dan Wreck Fort Lauderdale[/caption]

Sunk on February 20 1990, this 175-foot coast guard buoy tender is one of the most “covered in coral” wrecks to dive on.

Because this vessel is so large, you can easily swim through many areas without seeing other people.

A favorite section is the outside hall passage where you have to avoid fans and whips as you swim past.

There are many passages and rooms for penetration. And you will usually see a few resident goliath groupers scurrying from section to section to stay out of your way. (via Scubatyme)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdP_LElP-kY

The article Wreck Dives: Capt Dan was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Robert Edmister Reef

The Edmister is a 95' Coast Guard Cutter. Hurricane Andrew was not kind the cutter leaving it flattened in some sections. The wreckage still attracts lots of fish and is covered in growth.

The Jay Scutti wreck lies about 1,000' to the north.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCUH9xZ4qqM

Robert Edmister Wreck Fort Lauderdale Wiki

[caption id="attachment_454" align="alignleft" width="300"] Robert Edmister Wreck Fort Lauderdale[/caption]

This 95-foot Coast Guard Cutter was built in Maryland in 1953.

She was used as a search and rescue vessel and to intercept drug smuggling operations.

In 1984 she caught fire and was damaged. The vessel was sold at auction to Dale Scutti, a Ft. Lauderdale businessman who renamed her Robert Edmister after a friend and ocean environmentalist who had passed away.

The newly named Robert Edmister was sunk on December 11, 1989 in 70 feet of water. Her wheelhouse is located 50 feet down. (via Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrQ8Q-p_8pc

The article Wreck Dives: Robert Edmister Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Barracuda Reef

Barracuda Reef is a fairly shallow reef off Broward County that offers a dive experience similar to diving on reefs in the Florida Keys. Excellent for fish-watching.

Surrounded by 29 mooring buoys, the first markers to be installed in Broward County, Barracuda reef is an excellent spot for fish-watching.

Located a half-mile out from the John U. Lloyd State Recreational Area, this reef lies in 35 feet of water.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYIWExCKVXE

Barracuda Reef Fort Lauderdale Wiki

[caption id="attachment_450" align="alignleft" width="300"] Barracda Reef Fort Lauderdale[/caption]

The site has a high profile reef ledge that rises 10 to 15 feet from the bottom.

This reef offers a sight similar to that of reefs in the Florida Keys with a healthy concentration of staghorn, star, and brain corals.

Fish life is plentiful and lobsters, crabs, and moray eels can be found underneath ledges that rise about four feet from the bottom.

Boat traffic is heavy in the area and divers should exercise caution when exploring this reef. (Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKhyrsL9BQI

The article Reef Dives: Barracuda Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: DEMA Trader

The ship has a large profile making it easy to find with a decent fish finder. Most of the dive can be seen at 60 feet of water making this a really nice dive.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AE_cDttWMOc

DEMA Trader Wreck Miami Wiki

Located in 60-85 feet of water about 3.5 miles west of Key Biscayne.

[caption id="attachment_446" align="alignleft" width="300"] DEMA Trader Wreck Miami[/caption]

This 165 foot freighter was set up for diver penetration through holes cut in the sides of the superstructure.

This ship was seized by U.S. Customs for carrying drugs and was named for the DEMA (Dive Equipment and Marketing Association) annual convention in Miami in 2003.

Concrete pipes and junction boxes have been placed in the cargo hold to give it more weight so it won’t move around during strong storms.

This site may also be referred to as the GGD Trader – the name before they renamed it DEMA Trader. Sunk in 2003, it is one of the newer artificial reefs in the area so there is not a tremendous coral/sponge build-up yet – but getting there. (Adiscuba)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHH-BbSKZ8k

The article Wreck Dives: DEMA Trader was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Deep Freeze

Located in 135 feet of water at the Pflueger Artificial Reef site – south of Haulover Islet – this 210 foot freighter is good shape.

The wreck is easily penetrated.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5sn9jsXG1M

Deep Freeze Wreck Miami Wiki

The Deep Freeze was built in 1958 by J.J. Sietas Schiffswerft, in Hamburg.

[caption id="attachment_442" align="alignleft" width="260"] courtesy of Shipwreckexpo[/caption]

She was originally named Marie Horn and renamed in 1969 when she was sold. This diesel engine refrigerator freighter was owned by Trans Caribbean Lines of Monrovia and managed by Trans Caribbean Agencies of Miami.

The Deep Freeze was 231 feet long, had a 33.5 foot beam and displaced 1,138 gross tons.

Lloyd's of London reports that she burnt off of Port Limon on July 1, 1972, and she was subsequently dismantled.

She now rests in 135 feet of water with her top deck reachable at 100 feet. (Read more at Shipwreckexpo)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGrLrUdRHcg

The article Wreck Dives: Deep Freeze was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Concepcion

The 165-foot ship sits in 68-feet of water. The cargo area has collapsed and Hurricane Andrew broke off the stern which now lies approximately 40 feet north of the main hull.

The wreck attracts numerous fish, especially in the mornings and late afternoons.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGrLrUdRHcg

Concepcion Wreck Miami Wiki

This 150 foot long Honduran freighter was built in 1965.

[caption id="attachment_437" align="alignleft" width="300"] courtesy Shipwreckexpo[/caption]

In 1990 while en route from Miami to Haiti with a cargo of trucks, cars, clothing, wheat and rice she developed engine trouble.

The La Concepcion anchored off South Beach. Before repairs could be made the Concepcion's anchor failed and she drifted aground.

The La Concepcion was high and dry and cost the State over $300,000.00 to pull her off the beach.

The La Concepcion was sunk as an artificial reef on June 7, 1991. She now sits in 71 feet of water just north of the C-One wreck.  (via Shipwreckexpo)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DdgQ-V1fjsk

The article Wreck Dives: Concepcion was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Blue Fire

This 175-foot passenger freight was sunk in 1983 and is filled with sea life. The Blue Fire was seized during the Cuban exodus by the Coast Guard. Today, she is located South of Miami.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WyN6XZ7OSVc

Blue Fire Wreck Miami Wiki

Located in 110 feet of water south of Miami, this 175 foot freighter sits upright and is easily penetrated.

[caption id="attachment_432" align="alignleft" width="300"] Blue Fire Wreck Miami[/caption]

This is a fantastic site for underwater photography.

Advance divers/wreck divers only.

The site has strong currents.

The Blue Fire was used during the Cuban exodus and was seized by the Coast Guard. Sunk in 1983 to help form an artificial reef, the results are great.

The wreck is home to many of the larger fish breeds – jewfish, cobia, and barracuda – as well as jack and snapper. This is one of the oldest artificial reefs in the Miami area.

This is an advanced dive site due to depth, currents and because the wreck itself has interior access. (via Adiscuba)

The article Wreck Dives: Blue Fire was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Biscayne Freighter

A very popular wreck offshore of Key Biscayne. A vibrant community of fish makes this a great spot for photography and night dives.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqYFlKggbUU

Biscayne Freighter Wreck Miami Wiki

The Biscayne Wreck is a 120 foot long freighter carrying bananas between the Caribbean and Central America.

Often referred to as the Banana Wreck or Banana Freighter, she was one of Miami's first artificial reefs which sank in December 1974 at 4.5 miles east of Key Biscayne.

[caption id="attachment_428" align="alignleft" width="300"] Biscayne Freighter Wreck Miami[/caption]

It was a fisherman who bought it for himself and who had plans to scuttle it in waters of 250 foot deep to create the perfect fishing location only he knew.

When her hatch doors were opened and she was ready to sink, King Neptune decided otherwise.

It took ages before she went down which gave the strong winds enough time to blow her shoreward until she finally sank in waters of only 55 feet deep.

Its story continues as its location remained secret until 1980 when it was rediscovered. What had to be a fisherman's paradise has now become one of the must dives for divers around the world. (via Great Dive Sites)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9a75QMh1mA

The article Wreck Dives: Biscayne Freighter was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Billy’s Barge

Located in 50 feet of water in the Anchorage Artificial Reef site, the 110 foot long barge is surrounded by about 350 tons of concrete pipes.

Nice dive for any level diver.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gaCtBKIClU

Billy's Barge Wreck Wiki

[caption id="attachment_424" align="alignleft" width="300"] Billy's Barge Miami[/caption]

The Anchorage Artificial Reef site includes several barges, ships, and concrete structures in close proximity to each other.

Two Army tanks are also in the Anchorage.

Billy's Barge is 110 feet in length and sits in just 50 feet of water.

It is surrounded by 360 tons of concrete pipe. Concrete has been found to be an excellent material for promoting rapid growth of stony and gorgonian corals.

Wherever there is substantial coral there will be plenty of fish and other sea life to observe. (Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_UC1ujnZaM

The article Wreck Dives: Billy’s Barge was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Belzona Triangle

The Belzona Triangle offers a view of three different tugs and a variety of sea life. It is easy to navigate between tugs and enjoy many aspects of the area.

This is a great dive for those looking to explore several wrecks in a single dive.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-HDHVDTnLc

Belzona Wrecks Miami Wiki

East of Belcher Barge, in the Key Biscayne Artificial Reef Site lay three ships, Belzona One, Two, and Three. This trio lies in a triangular shape.

[caption id="attachment_420" align="alignleft" width="303"] Belzona Triangle Miami[/caption]

Belzona One is an 85-foot tug boat which was used throughout the Bahamas before she was harmed by a fire and then purchased by a Miami company.

Unable to restore the tug, this ship was purchased by Belzona America, Inc. and donated to form an artificial reef.

She was renamed and sunk in 1990 in 71 feet of water and sits upright.

Located seventy-five feet due west of Belzona One and connected by a rope for navigation lies Belzona Two. This was a second vessel purchased by Belzona America, Inc. and donated for use in an artificial reef.

This 90-foot tug was built in the early 1900s and carried refugees during the Cuba Boat lift.

She was sunk in 1991 and lies in 60 feet of water. During Hurricane Andrew, she was shaken about and lost her roof.

Seventy-five feet west of the second tug and also connected by a rope line lays Belzona Three. This 100-foot tug lies in 85 feet of water and was sunk in 1991 to complete the Belzona Triangle.

She was built in 1953 and used for towing. In 1989, engine failure lead to her demise and she was sold to Belzona America, Inc.(via Divebuddy)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ei4PEKeI0G0

The article Wreck Dives: Belzona Triangle was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Bache Shoal

A popular shallow patch reef just east of Sands Cut and Elliott Key.

Unique because of fresh water springs mixing with the salt water. This site is a shallow patch type reef and has a good population of fish and lobsters. Nice for novice diving or for snorkeling, and  great snorkeling location for children.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4PoCytgDbo

Bache Shoal Miami Wiki

A popular shallow patch reef just east of Sands Cut and Elliott Key.

[caption id="attachment_415" align="alignleft" width="300"] Bache Shoal Miami[/caption]

The reef is marked by 3 mooring buoys and is no more than 15 feet deep. Many of the boulder and brain corals are no more than 5 feet below the surface. Plenty of reef fish inhabit this area. This is a wonderful snorkeling location for the kids.

Getting there can be tricky if you're heading east through Sands Cut.

The east side of the channel gets very shallow -- 2' to 4' depending on the tides. If you're heading through the channel, you may want to wait for high tide, or approach from the ocean side of Elliott Key.

The reef is approximately 1 mile east of the channel. (via Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QQKEXJkX8c

The article Reef Dives: Bache Shoal was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dive: Atlantis Memorial Reef

Built to represent the lost city of Atlantis, Neptune Memorial Reef is perhaps one of the most meaningful sites you'll ever dive. Located not far from Miami, just 3.25 miles easy of Florida's Key Biscayne.

This incredible memorial site is like none other; here, cremated remains are deployed to the reef, providing a unique, means for life to flourish.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kGfacphlPU

Atlantis Memorial Reef Miami Wiki

The Neptune Memorial Reef originally conceived by Gary Levine and designed by artist Kim Brandell and known as the Atlantis Reef Project or the Atlantis Reef is an underwater columbarium in what was conceived by the creator as the world's largest man-made reef (covering over 600,000 square feet (65,000 m²) of ocean floor) at a depth of 40 feet.

[caption id="attachment_411" align="alignleft" width="300"] Neptune Memorial Reef Miami[/caption]

As of 2012, the Reef occupies a half-acre space, but a planned expansion to 16 acres is underway.

The city design involves underwater roads leading to a central feature with benches and statuary.

The place was chosen at 3.25 miles (5.2 km) off the coast of Key Biscayne, Florida.

It is a type of burial at sea and the first phase is estimated to be able to accommodate 850 remains,
with an eventual goal of more than 125,000 remains.

Though often referred to in news articles as an underwater mausoleum or underwater cemetery, the Neptune Society Memorial Reef meets the criterion for neither.

Cremated remains are mixed with cement to form features of the Reef, and memorial plaques are added. The Reef is more correctly identified as a cremation memorial site. (Wikipedia)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdTH_rXEEDA

The article Reef Dive: Atlantis Memorial Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Artificial Reef Dives: Army Tanks

Two M60 Army Tanks placed in 48 feet of water in June of 1994 just off Miami Beach.  There are two M60 Army Tanks placed in 15m deep by the DERM in June of 1994.

It is an interesting dive, because tanks is now an oasis of marine life.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrB8gJ0BYlA

Army Tanks Artificial Reef Miami Wiki

This is one of two M60 Army Tanks placed in 48 feet of water in June of 1994 just of Miami Beach.

[caption id="attachment_407" align="alignleft" width="300"] Army Tanks Miami[/caption]

At the same time that the tanks were placed in this location, the Department of Environmental Resource Management (DERM) also placed 1060 tons of limerock boulders next to the tanks.

The result is an area prolific with life. Lobsters are abundant both on the tanks in within the boulders, able to easily hide from their predators.

Although the tanks have only been underwater for 6 years, they look as if they have been here since the last World War.

They have an incredible amount of growth, including spiny oysters, sponges and both a variety of hard and soft corals. (Further Reading at Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAyQfWw5oAI

The article Artificial Reef Dives: Army Tanks was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Andro Wreck

The Andro, a 165' vessel, was originally built as a luxury yacht in 1910. Sunk in 105' of water in December, 1985.

Hurricane Andrew ripped it into a few pieces making it much more interesting, but, at the same time, extremely dangerous.

A popular place for local fishermen makes it hard, sometimes, to get divers on the site. (via South Beach Divers)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lldVs7Fe9GI

Andro Wreck Miami Wiki

The Andro was a 165 foot luxury yacht built in Germany in 1910. It was constructed mostly of wood, with the classic high bow and rounded-off tail of cruising yachts.

[caption id="attachment_403" align="alignleft" width="300"] Andro Wreck Miami[/caption]

During World War II, the electric motors were converted to diesel, machine guns were added, and the Andro became a patrol boat used to chase submarines.

After the war, the Andro served as a freighter up and down the U.S. Atlantic coast.

Eventually the Andro was seized by U.S. Customs for transporting illegal drugs. The Department of Environmental Resource Management purchased the Andro to be added to the Haulover Artificial Reef Site.

The Miami Bomb squad orchestrated the explosion which sunk the Andro on December 17th, 1985.

The Andro is one of the most popular wrecks in the Haulover site. The ship settled upright in the sand at a depth of 103 feet. With a 38 foot profile there is plenty to explore at a range of depths.

The ship has twin propellers, two smokestacks and a large wheelhouse still intact.

Hurricane Andrew broke the ship into three sections and exposed the engine block. This has actually made the wreck more varied and interesting to explore.

Numerous fish inhabit the Andro. This is a great wreck for underwater photographers.

(read more at Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iVPR8coFKgs

The article Wreck Dives: Andro Wreck was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dive: Almirante

The Almirante is a 200 foot steel ship sunk in April 1975. This wreck was considered the 'Queen of Miami'.

It was sunk by the Dade Sports Commission off of Elliott Key. In 1992, the keel was twisted badly by Hurricane Andrew but it is still an excellent dive.

Since it has been underwater for over 30 years the amount of growth and aquatic life is breathtaking. (South Beach Divers)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkPjcMjX1G8

Almirante Wreck Miami Wiki

The Almirante was originally called HMS Gillstone and was built in 1943.

[caption id="attachment_399" align="alignleft" width="300"] Almirante Wreck Miami[/caption]

She was 185 feet long with a beam of 28 feet and was used as a cargo ship that was sunk in 1974 off Elliot Key.

The ship lay on the bottom completely intact after being sunk by DERM (Department of Environmental Resource Department) and was covered in stunning corals until 1992 when Hurricane Andrew caused havoc around many of the dive sites around Miami and The Almirante was also caught up by Mother Nature’s ferocity and the wreck returned to the bottom upside down.

This is a deep dive so Miami scuba diving centers will want evidence that you are capable of exploring this wreck at 135 feet. (via Divebuddy)

 

The article Wreck Dive: Almirante was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dive: Alicia Wreck

Located in shallow waters just south of Long Reef in Biscayne National Park. The wreck is broken up with only the keel and some of the hull of the ship left.

Novice site great for snorkeling as well.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=808XFtE60zk

Alicia Wreck Miami Wiki

The steamer, Alicia, owned by Linea de Vapres Serra, and ported in Bilboa, Spain, left Liverpool in early April, 1905 bound for Havana.

[caption id="attachment_395" align="alignleft" width="312"] courtesy nps.gov[/caption]

Her cargo was valued at greater than one million dollars and included fine silks, linens, silverware, household furniture, machetes, paint, pianos, wine, English ale and liquor, shoes, buggies, harnesses, and even a complete iron bridge.

On April 20, 1905 Alicia slammed into Long Reef during a storm, and was bilged and waterlogged.

On April 25th, the tug boat Three Friends, whose Captain was Harry Fozzard, attempted to pull Alicia off the reef. However, a squall moved through the area the next day and sank the flooded ship to the bottom.

Hope of refloating the Alicia was abandoned on July 25th and the wreck was sold to the highest bidder for scrap in September.

Work continued until December, and the salvors used explosives to tear the iron hull apart in order to recover machinery. Alicia eventually settled in 20 feet of water in what is now Biscayne National Park. (Read more at nps.gov)

The article Wreck Dive: Alicia Wreck was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Thunderbolt Wreck

Thunderbolt is endlessly fascinating to explore, both inside and out. Offshore, Marathon is surrounded by Sombrero Key and Coffins Patch, two no-take zones belonging to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, but it is Marathon’s most popular wreck, the Thunderbolt — which happens to be among the Florida Keys’ oldest — that attracts wreck aficionados. (via Scubadiving.com)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rh_9pXxqhQY

Thunderbolt Wreck Marathon Wiki

USAMP Major General Wallace F. Randolph, sometimes also known as MG Wallace F. Randolph, was a 188.2-foot (57.4 m) mine planter built by the Marietta Manufacturing Company, and delivered to the United States Army Mine Planter Service in 1942.

[caption id="attachment_389" align="alignleft" width="247"] courtesy of Wikipedia[/caption]

The ship was transferred to the U.S. Navy in 1951, placed directly into the Atlantic Reserve Fleet without being commissioned classed as the auxiliary minelayer ACM-15, then reclassified minelayer, auxiliary (MMA)[3] and named MMA-15, and finally given the name Nausett without any active naval service.

After being stricken from the Naval Vessel Register, the ship was transferred to different owners, and eventually was scuttled off the coast of Florida as an artificial reef and fish aggregating device.

The site is currently known as the Thunderbolt Wreck, and is considered to be an excellent and challenging dive site for advanced divers.

Eventually, Thunderbolt was donated to the Florida Keys Artificial Reef Association, and the vessel was scuttled 4 nautical miles (7.4 km) south of Marathon, Florida and Key Colony Beach, Florida on 6 March 1986.

The wreck sits on a flat sandy bottom 120 feet (37 m) below the surface of the water, nearly completely intact. The condition of the wreck and the abundance of marine life in and around the wreck make it an excellent dive site.

The main superstructure was cleared of most entanglement hazard prior to sinking, so she provides ample opportunity for penetration. Her lower decks are largely clear of debris, although they can be very silty, and the many openings and exits in the deck provide easy entry and exit points.

Coral growth on the Thunderbolt is extensive, although less than similar wrecks like the USCGC Bibb and USCGC Duane. Bait fish, barracuda, mackerel, snapper, permit, pompano, jacks, and resident goliath grouper, are often seen on the wreck, as well as the occasional black grouper and reef sharks. (Read more at Wikipedia)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MejGIqtK4Ek

The article Wreck Dives: Thunderbolt Wreck was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Horseshoe Reef

Natural Reef great diving depth allows for long down times. lots of sea life fun to go with the surge enjoy the ride.

Visibility is usually terrific with plenty to see. The diving depth results in good long bottom time so you have plenty of time to see a major amount of fish.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKjQiJBT75E

Horseshoe Reef Marathon Wiki

As you may have guessed, this reef gets its name from its curved horseshoe-like formation.

[caption id="attachment_384" align="alignleft" width="300"] Horseshoe Reef Marathon[/caption]

It ranges in depth from 15 to 25 feet, with the sharpest profile on the shoreward side.

There are several sandy ledges decorated with soft coral and sponges.

There is also a series of coral heads located on the northwest side.

Turtles find the ledges as safe havens for napping, and are abundant in this reef. These turtles are protected and should not be touched.

French, bluestripped, and smallmouth grunts are a common sight as well as snapper.

Hawksbill and loggerheads are often seen in the summer time. Horseshoe is an ideal spot for new divers. (Read more at Divespot)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H12lHM2Voa0

The article Reef Dives: Horseshoe Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Sombrero Reef

This reef is right on the edge of the barrier reef, and to reach it you catch a boat tour from the Marathon area on Vaca Key.

This is a popular spot, with lots of mooring pins and boats. It is marked by a good sized lighthouse.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62dCDqsXQw0

Sombrero Reef Marathon Wiki

[caption id="attachment_380" align="alignleft" width="300"] Sombrero Reef Marathon[/caption]

Sombrero Key Light is located near Key Vaca in Marathon, Florida. The lighthouse is located on a mostly submerged reef.

The name Sombrero Key goes back to the Spanish, and old charts show a small island at the spot, but by the later 19th Century the island had eroded away, with some parts of the reef exposed at low tide.

As a result, the reef and the lighthouse have also been called Dry Banks.

The lighthouse was put in service in 1858, automated in 1960, and is still in operation.

The foundation is iron pilings with disks, and the tower is a skeletal octagonal pyramid of cast iron. The Sombrero Key Light is the tallest lighthouse in the Florida Keys. (via Wikipedia)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQWOeJW-aQY

The article Reef Dives: Sombrero Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Ivory Wreck

The ledges and sandy channels around this sunken slave ship are filled with sea grasses, a variety of stony and gorgonian coral and plenty of fish.

The clear water makes this a great spot for anyone Florida Keys snorkeling and for novice divers exploring the few remains that are left of this ship. (via Florida Keys Vacation)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpY36SM2OnE

Ivory Wreck Marathon Wiki

[caption id="attachment_376" align="alignleft" width="300"] Ivory Wreck Marathon[/caption]

This scattered and mostly buried wreck is said to be the remains of a schooner sunk in the 1850's.

She rests in shallow water, just south of Vaca key.

This wreck received her name after a group of divers found elephant tusks on the site ranging from four to six feet in length.

Among the other items found were cannon balls, musket shot, leg irons and brass bowls.

The leg irons and brass bowls tell historians that this wreck is probably that of a slave ship from Africa. (Shipwreckexpo)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-RpErZX8_6c

The article Wreck Dives: Ivory Wreck was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Looe Key

Today, the wreck of the HMS Looe lies in just twenty five feet of clear, warm water, on the east edge of Looe reef.

When she was afloat, her gun deck was more than 124 feet long, her keel was just over 101 feet, and her beam was almost 36 feet.  Her hold was nearly fifteen feet deep, and she was 685 tons. (via Just Gotta Dive)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuaB4wmQ7N4

Looe Key/HMS Looe Marathon Wiki

HMS Looe was a 44-gun fifth rate warship of the Royal Navy. She grounded on Looe Key off the coast of Florida on 5 February 1744, during the War of Jenkins' Ear.

Looe was lost off the Florida coast early in the morning of 5 February 1744.

[caption id="attachment_372" align="alignleft" width="300"] Looe Key Snorkeling Marathon[/caption]

She had a captured merchant ship commanded by a Spanish crew in tow when, just after midnight, she struck a reef, followed shortly by the merchant ship.

With a priority to escape to avoid capture by the Spanish, the three small boats carried by the frigate were inadequate to carry the 274 survivors, however a Spanish sloop was sighted nearby, which was captured after being chased by some of the crew in the frigate's boats.

After the grounded ships had been salvaged for provisions, they were set alight and the survivors departed in the sloop and smaller boats.

The sloop managed to reach Port Royal, South Carolina. One of the smaller boats reached New Providence in the Bahamas, and one was rescued near Cuba.

Captain Utting was court-martialed, but acquitted.

The wreckage of the ship and her remaining cargo forms part of the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary (named after the ship) in the Florida Keys. (courtesy Wikipedia)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oJwL-Hivas

The article Reef Dives: Looe Key was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Herman’s Hole

Herman's Hole is a circular coral and limestone ridge that drops 20 feet to the sand in the center, and 30 feet to the sand around the outside.

The hole is surrounded by a patch reef where grunts can be seen. There is a five-foot ledge with overhangs here as well. You'll often find many grunts and snappers here. (Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avD9VHWToew

Herman's Hole Marathon Wiki

[caption id="attachment_366" align="alignleft" width="300"] Herman's Hole Marathon[/caption]

The Middle Keys, from Islamorada to Marathon, are considered the prime hunting grounds for lobsters in lobster season.

From Islamorada, lobster charters visit reef sites including The Garden, Fish Bowl and the Aquarium.

From Marathon, popular lobster areas are the Bomb Holes, a series of shallow craters on the Florida Bay side of Marathon; the current-swept pilings and rubble piles of the Seven-Mile Bridge; and shallow reefs like Herman's Hole and Yellow Rocks.

Herman's hole depth is 15 to 65 feet and is suitable for the novice diver.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0BbKnhmkaA

The article Reef Dives: Herman’s Hole was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: East Washerwoman

East Washerwoman Shoal is marked with a 36' tall light tower. The depth of the water ranges from eight feet to twenty five feet.

There are no mooring buoys to tie your boat to, so be careful when you anchor. Be sure to place it in the sandy area that’s around the outside edge of the reef.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpiFjNJPHW4

East Washerwoman Marathon Wiki

East Washerwoman Shoal and Other Patch Reefs in Hawk Channel.

The bedrock depression beneath Hawk Channel varies in elevation due to clusters of patch reefs in certain areas.

[caption id="attachment_362" align="alignleft" width="300"] East Washerwoman Marathon[/caption]

The most prominent patches are named. The Mosquito Bank and Hen and Chickens patch reefs are located off the upper Keys.

Patch reefs of East and West Turtle and East Washerwoman Shoals lie off the middle Keys. (courtesy pubs.usgs.gov)

West Washerwoman off the lower Keys is by far the largest mid-channel cluster of patch reefs.

Six miles southwest of Key Colony Beach lays East Washerwoman Shoal.

This site ranges in depth from 10 to 20 feet and is marked by a 36-foot tower.

Snorkeling can be done in the shallow areas. Rose, brain, star and staghorn coral can all be seen on the sandy bottom of this Shoal.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZsCXJ0sIiI

The article Reef Dives: East Washerwoman was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Duck Key

This old steam powered freighter remains unidentified. She lies in 20 to 25 feet of water off the north end of Marathon, and divers will easily recognize her four smoke stacks and two huge boilers scattered across the sea bed.

The area, which is also known as Boiler Patch, is good for novice divers and contains a good assortment of marine life.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tj1Ajn30spQ

Duck Key - Adelaide Baker - Marathon Wiki

In 20 feet of water, four miles south-southeast of Duck Key, lie the remains of a three-masted iron-rigged and reinforced wooden-hull bark.

[caption id="attachment_358" align="alignleft" width="300"] Adelaide Baker Wreck Marathon[/caption]

The major features of this ship, locally known as the Conrad and believed to be the Adelaide Baker, are scattered over a square quarter-mile area.

The Adelaide Baker was 153 feet long, with a draft of almost 21 feet.

She signifies a period of time when the fledgling United States was growing and prospering. This was the "American Period" of shipping, in the 19th century, when the most efficient (and sometimes only) means of transporting goods was by vessel.

Today, the remaining parts of the ship host a diverse overgrowth of organisms such as gorgonians, sponges, and encrusting corals. (via noaa.gov)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VTuDDP0cBc

The article Reef Dives: Duck Key was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Delta Shoals

Snorkelers will enjoy the spur and groove formation and the sheer number of fish. Divers enjoy the remains of numerous ships that met their match on the outside edge of this reef.

One of the more interesting wrecks is the Ivory Wreck, an old slaver that ran aground. She gets her name from the ivory tusks that were later salvaged from her. (Divebuddy)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzBh5wWeadM

Delta Shoals - Ivory Wreck - Marathon Wiki

[caption id="attachment_352" align="alignleft" width="300"] Delta Shoals Marathon[/caption]

The Delta Shoals are home to several wrecks, a vast network of coral canyons, and elkhorn, brain, and star coral heads.

Here you'll find the remnants of the Ivory Wreck, so named for the up to six-foot long elephant tusks found aboard by divers.

This shoal runs for half a mile, taking divers through areas where relics from the many sunken vessels can be found.

East of Sombrero Light in 14 feet of water lies one of the wrecks which was carrying dry goods and furniture when it went aground in the sand and grass flats of these shoals. (courtesy of Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBmz5zi5nuI

The article Reef Dives: Delta Shoals was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Coffins Patch

Located 4 nautical miles off Marathon and 3.5 miles southeast of Key Colony Beach in 15-30 feet of water, this small series of patch reefs has some rare pillar coral and some of the largest brain corals in the Keys.

Anchor 50 yards east or west of the 6 foot piling that marks the site. This site is a great beginner/novice dive site.

This location was named for a ship that wrecked here that was carrying a load of coffins. (via Adiscuba)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BM3vLblnAZs

Coffins Patch Marathon Wiki

Coffins Patch is a shallow coral reef (patch reef) located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. It lies to the southeast of Bamboo Key. This reef lies within a Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA).

[caption id="attachment_348" align="alignleft" width="300"] Coffins Patch Marathon[/caption]

The wreck is not visible but the beautiful corals and plentiful marine life make this a great shallow water dive and photographic opportunity.

Beware of FIRE CORAL in the area. This site is a SPA area where no fishing, collecting or lobstering is allowed.

The northeast side has some of the largest brain corals found in the Keys.

There is also a favorite section called the Doughnut. This is a circular section of about a 100 yard diameter filled with tropicals and curious fish who may follow divers around.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlKUjcsNSBc

The article Reef Dives: Coffins Patch was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Adolphus Busch

The Adolphus Busch has transformed into a great Wreck Dive just offshore in the Florida Keys On December 5, 1998 the Adolphus Busch was sank intentionally along the reef in the Florida Keys.

Yes, this is the family that owns the Busch Brewing Co. It sits upright in the sand in one hundred feet of water.(Divebuddy)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkZfwzxiKSs

Adolphus Busch Wiki

The Adolphus Busch was a cargo ship that was sunk off of Looe Key, Florida, as an artificial reef and dive site.

[caption id="attachment_342" align="alignleft" width="300"] courtesy of Divespots[/caption]

The ship was built as London by the Burntisland Shipbuilding Company, Fife, Scotland, for the Dundee, Perth & London Shipping Co Ltd, Dundee and was launched on 20 December 1950.

She sailed under a number of names during her career before she was wrecked at Port-au-Prince on 24 September 1998 under the name Ocean Alley.

The wreck was bought by August Adolphus Busch IV and named after his great-grandfather, Adolphus Busch. He had the ship stripped out and arranged for its sinking as an artificial reef to help preserve marine habitat. The ship was sunk on 5 December 1998

The Adolphus Busch rests upright on a sand bottom at an average depth of 80 feet (24.3 meters). Maximum depth is 110 feet (33.5 meters).

The wreck is fully penetrable, and can be entered through the bridge or cargo holds. The machinery in the engine room is still present and presents the only major entanglement hazard to divers.

The glass from the wheelhouse windows and the covers to the cargo holds have been removed. (courtesy of Wikipedia)

The article Wreck Dives: Adolphus Busch was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Little Conch Reef

Located 6 miles east of Windley Key, just south of Conch Reef in 30 feet of water, this shallow water dive site is close to the wreck of the Infante (about 75 yards) there are ledges to explore and corals, sponges, seafans as well as eels and the occasional nurse shark.

Little Conch Reef is the site of active lobster hunting during the sport lobster season.

Tube sponges, seafans and some elkhorn coral make this a pretty site for photography. Divers and snorkelers can enjoy the site together.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNoA0ZG9CVA

Little Conch Reef Islamorada Wiki

Located six miles east of Windley Key, Little Conch Reef spreads a half mile across a flat sand bed inside the inner reef.

[caption id="attachment_336" align="alignleft" width="300"] Little Conch Reef Islamorada[/caption]

This site is just south of Conch Reef and is a great place for shallower diving. Average depth of the area ranges from 15 to 30 feet.

The ledges are located 100 yards west and the Infante, the site of a sunken Spanish Galleon, lies just 75 yards southwest of Little Conch Reef.

Common to this area are nurse sharks and moray eels as well as barrel coral and small amounts of elkhorn coral. The Reef also contains tube sponges and seafan colonies.

Little Conch Reef attracts minimal commercial diving but generally draws large amounts of lobster harvesting throughout the season. (Read more at Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbl9IIQj-QA

The article Reef Dives: Little Conch Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Hens and Chickens Reef

Islamorada is home to some of the best snorkeling in the entire Keys, including a few reefs that are extremely close to shore.

Hen & Chickens is a large patch reef marked by a 35′ tower (flashing red #40). It got its name because there’s one large patch of coral surrounded by a bunch of smaller patches.

So, they say from an aerial view it looks like a mother hen surrounded by her chicks. (Courtesy Grouchy Turtle)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ut5vHwlJxc4

Hens and Chickens Reef Islamorada Wiki

Hen and Chickens is a shallow coral reef located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. It lies to the southeast of Plantation Key. This reef lies within a Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA).

[caption id="attachment_331" align="alignleft" width="300"] Hens and Chickens Reef Islamorada[/caption]

Hen & Chickens is 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.

What you really see is a beautiful patch reef in shallow water; great for diving and snorkeling. With Brain and Star Coral mounds and Sea Fans so abundant, it's like a forest of purple trees.

This is a fantastic family dive or snorkeling site.

Hen and Chickens is easily accessible and has mooring buoys installed. Giant Christmas tree and brain corals dominate the underwater landscape. Some coral heads are over 15 feet tall.

This is a prolific area of corals that almost creates a labyrinth for divers to explore. Even though it's shallow, no divers ever regret visiting. Hen & Chickens is one of the most unique reefs in all of the Florida Keys. (via Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSx-67wfeEE

The article Reef Dives: Hens and Chickens Reef was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Wreck Dives: Eagle Wreck

Even though the Eagle Wreck was just a typical coastal freighter of no significant importance, she's rapidly become one of the best advanced Key Largo dive sites.

Not only does she provide structural interest, her highly diverse marine life continues to evolve with her, in her new role as an artificial reef in the Florida Keys. (via Florida Keys Vacations)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVr-hW9qS6I

Eagle Wreck Islamorada Wiki

The ship was built in 1962 for Danish shipowners J. Lauritzen A/S at Bijkers Shipyard, Gorinchem, Netherlands, and named Raila Dan.

[caption id="attachment_324" align="alignleft" width="280"] courtesy of Shipwreckexpo[/caption]

In 1969 she was sold to the Dutch shipping company Poseidon and renamed Barok. In 1974 she was sold again, and renamed Carmela. She was then sold and renamed Ytai in 1976, and yet again sold, and renamed Etai the following year.

In 1981 she was sold and renamed Carigulf Pioneer, and sold for the final time in 1984 and renamed Arron K. On 6 October 1985 the Arron K. caught fire while sailing from Miami to Venezuela, and was damaged beyond economical repair.

On 19 December 1985 the ship was bought by the Florida Keys Artificial Reef Association, renamed Eagle Tire Co. and sunk as an artificial reef near Lower Matecumbe Key, Florida.

Eagle lies approximately three miles north-east of the Alligator Reef Light, six miles off the coast of the Lower Matecumbe Key, in between 70–115 feet (21–35 m) of water.

On 2 September 1998 the wreck was disturbed by Hurricane Georges and split into two separate pieces, 100 feet (30 m) apart. (Wikipedia)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4-Sdf2qDCk

The article Wreck Dives: Eagle Wreck was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Davis Ledge

Davis Reef is one of the nicest reefs in the area. Noted for its abundance of large green moray eels, and a multitude of tropical fish. Great spot for night dives. (15-30 Ft.)

These are great sites for anyone, but also great for novices. Great dive, a lot of current toward the end. There is plenty to see.

A favorite Keys dives, always fishy, lot’s of critters and easy navigation, just keep the ledge in sight and remember which mooring your boat is tied too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXIHu8pswtE

Davis Reef/Ledge Islamorada Wiki

Davis Reef is a coral reef located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. It lies to the southeast of Plantation Key. This reef lies within a Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA).

[caption id="attachment_321" align="alignleft" width="300"] Davis Ledge Islamorada[/caption]

The southern end of the reef is sometimes called "Davis Ledge."

Davis reef lies between Crocker Reef and Conch Reef.

The Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI, the research arm of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission), the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the Coral Restoration Foundation (CRF), the Wildlife Foundation of Florida (WFF), and the family of the late Charlie Stroh have recently begun a program of "outplanting" corals around Davis reef. (courtesy of Wikipedia)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxvDc4pcW5Q

The article Reef Dives: Davis Ledge was first published on Florida Scuba Diving

Reef Dives: Crocker Wall

Located on the south end of Crocker Reef (30-60 feet), the wall sports spur and groove formation with mounding coral heads on top in 60-80 feet of water and is a great sea slope dive.

Large fish, turtles, barrel sponges, sea fans, green morays, etc. can frequently be seen. (via Islamorada Dive Center)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=flKPBhlrwes

Crocker Wall Islamorada Wiki

Crocker Wall is located on the south side of Crocker Reef and is a good sea slope dive. The wall is 450-feet long and in 60 to 80 feet of water.

[caption id="attachment_317" align="alignleft" width="300"] Crocker Wall Islamorada[/caption]

Some of the sea life to be seen in the area is grouper, yellowtail, grunts, rays, turtles and large barrel sponges. Seafans and gorgonians are a common sight along the wall.

Additionally, divers will find spur-and-groove coral and block coral on the wall.

Mild currents make this a great drift-dive location. The depth of this dive provides a likely viewing of larger fish.

An important note should be made that fire coral is present in this area and divers should be sure to avoid a potentially painful collision. (courtesy of Divespots)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5rUSRAKRyg

The article Reef Dives: Crocker Wall was first published on Florida Scuba Diving