Frequently Asked Questions About Scuba Diving

Diving in the Florida Keys, and specifically Islamorada, offers some of the most vibrant reef and wreck experiences in the Florida Keys. Top sites include Alligator Reef, known for its colorful coral formations and iconic lighthouse backdrop; Hens and Chickens Reef, a shallow, fish-filled reef perfect for relaxed dives and underwater photography; Davis Reef, featuring dramatic coral ledges and abundant marine life; and the deeper Eagle Wreck, a 287-foot freighter turned artificial reef that attracts large schools of fish and adventurous advanced divers. Together, these sites deliver everything from easy reef cruising to thrilling wreck exploration in clear, warm waters.

No, you do not need to be a certified diver to participate in every dive activity.

Certified divers can join our regular boat dive trips. If you are not yet certified, you can still experience scuba diving through our Discover Scuba Diving program, where an instructor teaches you the basics and guides you on your first ocean dives.

You can also get certified with us through our Open Water Scuba Certification course, which allows you to become a fully certified diver while diving on the beautiful reefs of the Florida Keys.

If you are already certified but haven’t been diving in a while, we recommend completing a Scuba Refresher before joining a dive trip, especially if it has been more than two years since your last dive.

Snorkel trips are also available and do not require any diving certification.

Diving in the Florida Keys is great year-round.

In the winter, many visitors escape the cold northern weather and enjoy warm water and sunny conditions in the Keys. Spring and summer often bring calm seas and excellent visibility, with warm water and tropical marine life.

No matter the season, the Florida Keys offer beautiful reefs, clear water, and incredible marine life throughout the year.

Divers must be at least 10 years old to dive. Depth restrictions apply to children under 15 years of age.

The Florida Keys are home to a wide variety of marine life on the Florida Reef Tract.

While diving, you may see colorful tropical fish, coral formations, sea turtles, rays, moray eels, lobsters, and large reef fish like grouper and barracuda. It’s also common to spot nurse sharks cruising the reef.

Every dive is different, and the variety of marine life is one of the things that makes diving in the Florida Keys so special.

Yes. We offer private dive and snorkel charters for groups who want a more personalized experience on the water.

Private charters allow your group to plan the trip your way, whether you want to scuba dive, snorkel, or simply enjoy time on the water. Our crew can take you to some of the best reef sites in the Florida Keys or help plan the perfect trip for your group.

Private charters are perfect for families, dive groups, and special occasions, and we recommend booking ahead of time to reserve your preferred date. If you have a large group but don’t need the whole boat, we’re happy to help find the best option for you.

For your dive trip, we recommend bringing a swimsuit, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and any personal dive gear you prefer to use.

We provide tanks, weights, and drinking water on the boat. Please bring a reusable water bottle to refill. You are also welcome to bring snacks and additional drinks in a small cooler.

Don’t forget your certification card if you are a certified diver.