Explore
some of Florida's coral reefs..due to a combination of warm waters,
nutrients from the Gulf Stream and the fact that there is little
or no polution in these waters, the reefs and the sealife that inhabit
them have flourished...if you love the sea you must visit the reefs....whether
you go diving or take a boat!
The
sanctuary attracts divers of all levels from around the world
as its beauty is unsurpassed. This, the shallowest reef on the
third of South Florida's three reef systems, starts at only 40
ft with an angled drop-off to 58 ft. With a moderate current you
will see much sealife including moray eels, rays, turtles and
an array of tropical fish. This is a magnificent dive for amateur
and expert alike.
Alligator
Reef named after the wreck of the Alligator, a nineteenth
century ship, is located near Islamorada, Florida. The wreck is
an archaeological site, replete with timbers, ballast stones.
You will find the reef by locating the Alligator Reef Lighthouse,
built in 1873. Alligator's waters are known for great barracudas,
lobster holes, as well as damselfish, puffer fish and yellow stingrays,
and of course elkhorn coral.
The
ancient mariner is part of the reef rejuvination program taking
place in parts of South Florida. This project hopes to create
a diver-safe, living underwater ecosystem. Cutter found its final
resting place in June of 1991. Depths on this wreck range from
45 to 72 ft., and there are three other wrecks in the area. The
wreckage has become home to barracuda, jacks and other tropical
and schooling fish.
Fink's Grouper Hole is the famous shark dive capital of
Florida. Diving here , you are guaranteed an encounter with nurse
sharks. There are other sharks to see at this wonderful reef and
the sealife is abundant. Ideal for divers of all levels, if you
are a beginner and a bit of a thrill seeker this dive is a must.
Looe
Key is located in the lower sweep of the Keys, and was named
after a famous naval wreck. The key earned its name after the
British frigate H.M.S. Looe sunk there in 1744, leaving ballast
stones that exquisitely haunt the area, this is now a National
Maritime Sanctuary. The reef and its shallow waters are abundant
with beautiful seagrass beds and sand flats. Reef life is abundant
and includes barracudas, spiny lobsters, crabs.
Pompano
drop-off is the perfect spot for diving or snorkeling, this
popular Florida location is well known for its fantastic marine
life. The current here is minimal making this an ideal diving
spot for beginners. An added bonus for all who dive here is the
copenhagen wreck with its swarms of resident fish, this
wreck has been an inhabitant of these tranquil waters since it
ran aground in May 1899.
|