Wreck Diving Adventures with Paragon Diving in Big Pine Key
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours (full day)
Fitness Level
Good swimming skills and moderate physical fitness recommended due to handling gear and boat transfers
Overview
Dive into the hidden world of shipwrecks off Big Pine Key with Paragon Diving. Learn vital wreck diving skills and discover vibrant marine ecosystems thriving on historic underwater structures.
Adventure Tips
Complete Open Water Certification First
You must be a certified Open Water Diver before enrolling in wreck diving courses for safety and skill prerequisites.
Practice Non-Penetration Techniques
Focus on mastering safe non-penetration dives to avoid hazards inside wrecks and protect fragile ecosystems.
Bring an Underwater Light
Even non-penetration dives benefit from a dive light to illuminate crevices and support clear navigation around the wreck.
Check Weather and Currents
Florida Keys conditions can change quickly; verify sea state and currents before your dive day for a safer outing.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Spotted moray eels
- Southern stingrays
History
Big Pine Key’s waters hold several historic wrecks from early maritime commerce and the Florida Straits shipping routes.
Conservation
Paragon Diving emphasizes low-impact diving practices to protect fragile coral growth on and around the wrecks, aiding reef preservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit (3mm-5mm)
Keeps you warm and protected in varied Florida Keys water temperatures.
fall|winter|spring|summer specific
Dive light
Essential for illuminating wreck interiors and shadowed areas during non-penetration dives.
Surface marker buoy
Improves your visibility to boats and enhances dive safety during ascent and at the surface.
Underwater camera
Capture the colorful marine life and dramatic shipwrecks to remember your dive adventure.