Yes, beginners can absolutely explore many of the shipwrecks of Florida, especially those included on the shipwreck trail. Several sites are shallow enough for snorkelers or novice divers to access safely. For example, the San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Park sits in just 18 feet of water, making it an ideal spot for first-timers. These sites offer a fantastic introduction to the world of shipwreck exploration without requiring extensive diving experience. Guided tours are often available, providing equipment, instructions and expert insights into the historical significance of the wrecks. Beginners should stick to designated preserves and work with local guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Florida Keys hold a treasure trove of secrets beneath their turquoise waters. Among these are the legendary shipwrecks of Florida, which tell tales of exploration, tragedy, and discovery. These submerged time capsules capture the imagination of historians, adventurers and divers alike. From Spanish treasure galleons to naval vessels now brimming with marine life, the shipwreck trail offers a unique blend of history and ecological wonder.
This guide highlights two unforgettable shipwrecks: the Nuestra Señora de Atocha, the most famous treasure ship in the Keys, and the USS Spiegel Grove, an impressive modern reef that has become a diver’s paradise. It also touches on some key shipwrecks of Florida history.
Exploring Shipwrecks in the Florida Keys
Nuestra Señora de Atocha
No conversation about shipwrecks of Florida is complete without mentioning the Nuestra Señora de Atocha. This Spanish treasure ship, lost in a devastating hurricane in 1622, carried an astonishing cargo: 40 tons of silver, gold and emeralds. Bound for Spain, the galleon sank off the Marquesa Keys, leaving only a handful of survivors and an enduring mystery beneath the waves.
Centuries later, treasure hunter Mel Fisher made headlines with his discovery of the Atocha in 1985. After 16 years of relentless searching, Fisher unearthed artifacts worth hundreds of millions of dollars, including ancient coins, dazzling jewels and priceless navigation tools. Today, visitors can view these treasures at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum in Key West, which provides a fascinating look at the Atocha’s storied history.
For divers, fragments of the wreck remain scattered in the surrounding waters, allowing adventurers to connect with the past. The Atocha symbolizes resilience, intrigue and the enduring allure of the sea, making it a highlight of the shipwreck trail.
USS Spiegel Grove
The USS Spiegel Grove offers a stark contrast to the treasure-laden Atocha. Deliberately sunk in 2002 off the coast of Key Largo, this 510-foot Navy landing ship was transformed into an artificial reef, now teeming with marine life. Its history and unique underwater ecosystem make it a must-see destination on the shipwreck trail.
The Spiegel Grove’s sinking was not without drama. Initially, the ship settled upside down, creating significant challenges for divers. By 2005, however, it was upright, thanks to the unexpected forces of Hurricane Dennis. Today, the ship rests at a depth of 140 feet, with much of its superstructure accessible at 110 feet or shallower.
Divers exploring the Spiegel Grove can marvel at its expansive well deck, anti-aircraft turrets, and wheelhouse, which have become home to schools of glass minnows, groupers and barracudas. The coral-encrusted surfaces now host vibrant marine life, including queen angelfish and Atlantic spadefish. Above the wheelhouse, shimmering schools of horse-eye jacks provide a mesmerizing display.
This remarkable wreck combines military history with ecological transformation, offering divers an unforgettable experience. As one of the most celebrated modern shipwrecks of Florida, the Spiegel Grove is a testament to how human ingenuity can merge with nature to create something extraordinary.
Famous Shipwrecks of the Florida Keys
The Benwood
The Benwood, built in 1910 in England, began its journey as a merchant marine freighter, owned by a Norwegian company. Measuring 360 feet in length with a 51-foot beam, it was designed to transport cargo across vast distances. On April 9, 1942, the Benwood embarked on what was meant to be a routine voyage from Tampa, Florida, to Norfolk, Virginia, carrying phosphate rock. However, wartime blackouts, enforced to avoid detection by German U-boats, left both the Benwood and the nearby ship Robert C. Tuttle sailing without lights. This precaution tragically led to the two vessels colliding, causing the Benwood to take on water and sink.
Today, the wreck lies in the waters between French Reef and Dixie Shoals, at depths ranging from 25 to 45 feet. The Benwood is now a popular site along the shipwreck trail, attracting divers and snorkelers eager to explore its remnants. Over the years, the wreck has become a thriving artificial reef, home to soft corals, schools of tropical fish and even the occasional barracuda. The site is particularly notable for its accessibility to novice divers, making it a fantastic starting point for those interested in exploring the shipwrecks of Florida.
The Thunderbolt
Originally named the USAMP Major General Wallace F. Randolph, the Thunderbolt boasts a storied history. This 189-foot vessel began its life as a mine planter for the U.S. Army and Navy before being acquired by Florida Power and Light for lightning strike research. It earned its nickname, “Thunderbolt,” during this period. In 1986, the ship was intentionally sunk near Marathon to create an artificial reef.
Sitting upright in 120 feet of water, the Thunderbolt has become a key attraction for experienced divers. Its large cable spool near the bow and twin propellers are standout features, offering a glimpse into the ship’s operational past. Over time, the wreck has transformed into a marine sanctuary, with sponge and coral growth adorning its surfaces. Divers exploring the Thunderbolt may encounter barracudas, French angelfish and groupers swimming among its many nooks and crannies. As part of the shipwreck trail, it provides a fascinating blend of history and marine ecology, making it a must-visit for those interested in the shipwrecks of Florida.
The Vandenberg
The General Hoyt S. Vandenberg is a centerpiece of the shipwreck trail, both for its immense size and historical significance. Originally a military ship used for missile tracking, the Vandenberg was intentionally sunk in 2009 to create an artificial reef. At nearly 523 feet in length, it remains the largest wreck in the Florida Keys and one of the largest in the world. Located approximately 7 miles off Key West, the Vandenberg is a premier diving destination for adventurers from around the globe.
The ship lies in 140 feet of water, with its main deck accessible at depths of 95 to 100 feet. Its vast superstructure features observation towers, antenna arrays, and corridors that provide endless opportunities for exploration. Coral and sponge growth now cover much of the wreck, attracting a vibrant marine ecosystem that includes reef sharks, barracudas and tropical fish. Divers often report encounters with bull sharks and rays, adding an element of excitement to the experience.
San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Park
The San Pedro, part of the ill-fated 1733 Spanish treasure fleet, met its demise during a hurricane in the Straits of Florida. Laden with silver pesos and crates of Chinese porcelain, the San Pedro represents the wealth and ambition of Spain’s colonial empire. Caught in the storm, the ship sank in just 18 feet of water, about 1 mile south of Indian Key.
Designated a State of Florida Underwater Archaeological Preserve in 1989, the San Pedro site offers a window into the past for snorkelers and divers. Replica cannons, a bronze plaque and an anchor from another wreck have been added to enhance its historical interpretation. Its shallow depth makes it an accessible destination on the shipwreck trail, particularly for beginners or those snorkeling for the first time.
Isaac Allerton
The Isaac Allerton stands as a haunting reminder of the dangers sailors faced while navigating the treacherous waters of the Florida Keys. This square-rigged merchant cargo ship, measuring 137 feet, was lost during a hurricane in 1856 near the Saddlebunch Keys, just outside Key West. Carrying goods throughout the Caribbean, the Allerton’s demise marked another chapter in the storied history of maritime disasters in the region.
Artifacts recovered from the Isaac Allerton are on display at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum, allowing visitors to delve into its history. Items like cargo tools and navigation equipment provide insights into the challenges and triumphs of 19th-century sailors. Exploring the museum not only deepens one’s appreciation for the Allerton but also highlights the resilience of those who braved the unforgiving seas. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in the shipwrecks of Florida and the tales they tell.
FAQs
Yes, the Florida Keys have a rich history of sunken treasure, and artifacts are still being uncovered today. The Nuestra Señora de Atocha, one of the most famous wrecks in the Keys, was carrying immense wealth when it sank during a hurricane in 1622. Salvage operations led by Mel Fisher uncovered gold, silver and emeralds worth over $400 million. While most treasure has been recovered from larger wrecks like the Atocha, smaller items and artifacts are occasionally found in the waters surrounding various sites on the shipwreck trail. Visitors can learn more about this history at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum or the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum, which showcases many recovered treasures.
The Nuestra Señora de Atocha holds the record for the largest treasure discovery in Florida. Found in the 1970s by treasure hunter Mel Fisher, the haul included over 40 tons of silver and gold bars, emeralds and other artifacts, totaling an estimated value of $400 million. The Atocha’s discovery captivated the world and solidified its reputation as the most famous shipwreck in Florida. Artifacts from this treasure are on display at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, offering visitors a close look at this incredible find.
Undoubtedly, the Nuestra Señora de Atocha is the most famous shipwreck in Florida. Its story of trade, disaster and eventual discovery is legendary. Sunk during a hurricane in 1622, the wreck went undiscovered for centuries until Mel Fisher’s groundbreaking recovery efforts in the 1970s. Its historical and monetary value has cemented its place in maritime history. Visitors can learn about its treasures, history, and impact on maritime archaeology at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum in Key West.
There are several places in the Florida Keys where you can dive deep into the history of shipwrecks. The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum in Key West offers a world-class collection of artifacts and exhibits detailing the story of the Atocha and other wrecks. For a more immersive experience, the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum recreates the life and challenges faced by salvagers and sailors. Additionally, exploring the shipwreck trail itself provides a hands-on opportunity to see preserved wreck sites and learn about their historical significance firsthand.
The best time to visit the Florida Keys to explore shipwrecks is during the dry season, which typically lasts from November to April. During these months, the waters are calmer and visibility is excellent, making it easier for snorkelers and divers to explore the shipwrecks of Florida. For those planning to dive deeper sites like the USS Spiegel Grove or the Vandenberg, early mornings often provide the best underwater conditions. While summer is also a good time for wreck exploration, visitors should keep an eye on the weather, as storms and hurricanes are more likely during this season.