Coral Restoration Dives

Coral Restoration Dives with Key Dives

How Can You Take Part?

Join us for an unforgettable experience with an I.CARE Coral Restoration dive charter and make a direct impact on the health of Islamorada’s reefs! Your day starts at 8:30 AM at our education center for a comprehensive tutorial and dry-land demo led by I.CARE scientists and interns. Learn about coral ecosystems, the threats they face, and the hands-on techniques for transplanting coral.

After the morning workshop, return to the dive shop at 12:30 PM for a 2-tank dive where you’ll transplant coral fragments directly onto the reef. It’s a unique and rewarding opportunity to contribute to marine conservation while enjoying an incredible underwater adventure!

What Is I.CARE?

Islamorada Conservation and Restoration Education (I.CARE) is a passionate team of scientists dedicated to restoring the vibrant coral reefs of Islamorada. I.CARE employs recent college graduates engage in year-long internships to kickstart their careers in the field of coral reef conservation.

I.CARE partners with Key Dives to engage divers in planting coral fragments (and sponges!) collected from our on-site nursery. These include species such as:

• Brain corals
• Bouldering star corals
• Elkhorn coral
• Staghorn coral

Every coral you help transplant contributes to the restoration of our reefs. Come back year after year to witness the growth of the coral you’ve planted and make an even greater impact on reef restoration!

What Is the Schedule?

Coral outplanting dives are available at Key Dives on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month. Coral maintenance dives are on the 2nd and 4th Fridays at Key Dives. Can’t make those dates? Check out their website or contact I.CARE directly at info@icareaboutcoral.org for their complete schedule with other participating dive shops.

What Is the Cost?

Participating in a Coral Restoration Dive Charter is just $25 plus the cost of the dive charter. Here’s what’s included:

• Morning education and training with I.CARE scientists
• Hands-on coral transplanting workshop
• Underwater coral planting during a 2-tank dive

*Rental gear is an additional charge

Special Offer for Keys Locals: Dive for only $25!

Generous grant funding covers the cost of the dive for locals to be able to actively protect their home reefs. If you’d like to donate more, your generosity will help support I.CARE’s critical conservation work.

Book Your Coral Restoration Dive Today

Be part of something extraordinary and make a difference in protecting Islamorada’s coral reefs!

Contact us to reserve your spot.