Morning 2-Tank Dive at Vandenberg Wreck in Key West - Key West

Morning 2-Tank Dive at Vandenberg Wreck in Key West

Key Westexpert

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.

Details

Experience an extraordinary underwater adventure with Southpoint Divers on the Morning 2-Tank Dive to the USNS General Hoyt S. Vandenberg, located off the coast of Key West, Florida. This accessible dive site is the world’s second-largest artificial reef, resting at about 140 feet deep, offering an awe-inspiring habitat for a variety of marine life. As a retired naval ship, the Vandenberg provides a unique opportunity for advanced divers to navigate its structure and explore diverse aquatic ecosystems. The two-tank format means you get to maximize your dive time, allowing ample exploration of the wreck’s different sections as well as surrounding coral formations. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s clear waters grant excellent visibility that enhances the experience. Beyond the dive itself, the morning schedule gives you plenty of daylight for post-dive relaxation or additional adventures in Key West. Whether you’re an experienced diver seeking an exciting challenge or simply a passionate marine enthusiast eager to see one of the ocean’s most fascinating submerged environments, this trip combines expert guidance, pristine waters, and historic intrigue for an unforgettable day beneath the waves.

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

Hidden Gems

  • Nearby Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary for vibrant coral reefs
  • Fort Jefferson wreck dive site on Dry Tortugas

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

early morning
midday for brightest light
overcast days for balanced colors

Best Viewpoints

  • above the wreck looking down
  • close-up on marine life in coral pockets
  • wide shots showing full ship silhouette

What to Photograph

shipwreck structure
divers exploring
tropical fish and reef life

Recommended Gear

Full 7mm Wetsuit

Essential

Provides warmth in cooler winter waters and during extended dive times.

winter specific

Dive Computer

Essential

Crucial for tracking depth, time, and decompression limits on advanced multi-tank dives.

Underwater Torch

Essential

Improves visibility in shadowed areas of the wreck and during early morning dives.

Surface Marker Buoy (SMB)

Essential

Enhances surface visibility and safety when ascending from deep dives.

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