Morning 2-Tank Dive at Vandenberg Wreck in Key West
Difficulty
expert
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good cardiovascular fitness and be comfortable diving to 140 feet with controlled buoyancy.
Overview
Join Southpoint Divers for a thrilling morning 2-tank dive exploring the USNS General Hoyt S. Vandenberg wreck off Key West. Discover vibrant marine life and historic underwater structures in pristine Florida Keys waters.
Morning 2-Tank Dive: Vandenberg Wreck
4.5 Hours • Dive the World's 2nd largest Artificial Reef with us! • Ages 15+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating 2-tank dive to the USNS General Hoyt S. Vandenberg, the world’s second-largest artificial reef. Explore this majestic ship, now a vibrant underwater ecosystem, at depths of up to 100 feet. Experience the thrill of navigating its vast deck and intriguing corridors in the stunning Florida Keys.
Explore the famous Vandenberg wreck!
Duration
4.5 Hours
About
During our morning wreck dive we explore the USNS General Hoyt S. Vandenberg, the world’s 2nd largest artificial reef.
This retired naval ship was intentionally sunk in 2008 to create Key West’s newest and largest artificial reef. She lies in 140 feet of water approximately 6 miles SSE of Key West in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS).
Our a max depth is 100ft which is the approximate depth of the deck.
For ease of diving and maximum safety, we set up a line descent system using a traverse line from the main mooring line to the wreck.
This is an Advanced Dive so it requires Advanced Certification and/or a Guide.
Requirements
- All Scuba Divers must have been diving within the past year and are at least 15 years old
- Divers with Open Water certification must be guided ($50 per person)
- Advanced Open Water Divers and higher may choose to be guided ($50 per person)
What to Bring
- Please bring your certification card
Address
606 Front Street Key West, FL 33040
Adventure Tips
Advanced Certification Required
This dive is suitable only for advanced or experienced divers due to depth and conditions.
Check Your Equipment Thoroughly
Ensure all gear is in excellent working condition before diving given the depth and two-tank nature.
Stay Hydrated Before and After
Proper hydration helps prevent decompression sickness during multi-tank dives.
Respect Marine Sanctuary Rules
Avoid touching the wreck or marine life to preserve the reef’s delicate ecosystem.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Southern stingray
- spotted eagle ray
History
The USNS General Hoyt S. Vandenberg was intentionally sunk in 2009 to create a protected artificial reef and diving attraction.
Conservation
The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary protects the wreck area, promoting reef health and educating divers on sustainable practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Key West
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Full 7mm Wetsuit
Provides warmth in cooler winter waters and during extended dive times.
winter specific
Dive Computer
Crucial for tracking depth, time, and decompression limits on advanced multi-tank dives.
Underwater Torch
Improves visibility in shadowed areas of the wreck and during early morning dives.
Surface Marker Buoy (SMB)
Enhances surface visibility and safety when ascending from deep dives.