floridakeys.noaa.gov · Official
Sanctuary and reef-protection context.
Dive Spot Guide•
Alligator Deep
Deeper outer Alligator reef profile with channel and blue-water edge.
ScubaFreediveBoat EntryAdvanced
ReefWall
Visited by boat and planned more conservatively than nearby shallow Alligator routes, this site works best when visibility is good and the team is ready for deeper depth and stronger open-water feel.
About Alligator Deep
Alligator Deep is the deeper outer side of the Alligator Reef system, where a secondary reef line, sand channel, and deeper blue-water edge create a more advanced profile than the easier shallow sections nearby. The dive appeals to divers who want bigger reef relief, deeper water, and a better chance of passing predators without turning the site into a full wall dive.
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Research Estimate At Alligator Deep
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
VisibilityVisibility: 18m
AccessChallenging entry effort
Coral HealthMixed health
Marine LifeGreat variety
FacilitiesLimited facilities
CrowdedFew visitors
Current StrengthModerate current
Surge StrengthLight surge
Where Is Alligator Deep?
This spotNearby spots
Community sourced coordinates.
Alligator Deep Planning Details
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
12m - 30m
Depth Note
Depths can reach around 90 ft (30 m) on the farther edges.
Best Season
Usually best in clear Upper Keys weather windows when offshore boat access and visibility are strongest.
Typical Conditions
Expect a deeper, more open reef profile than the shallow Alligator sites, with blue water, sand channels, and more noticeable current on the outside edge.
Safety & Access At Alligator Deep
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Dangerous wildlife
Safety Notes
Large sharks may be encountered on the deeper side; plan conservatively and maintain awareness at depth.
Access Restrictions
Alligator Deep is an offshore boat-access reef site rather than a self-guided shore entry.
Legal Notes
Protected wildlife and sanctuary rules apply in the reef system, and divers should avoid disturbing coral, wildlife, or any protected reef structure.
Local Intel For Alligator Deep
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba
Deeper reef edges reach about 30 m.
Freedive
Freedive use is possible from a support boat but the deeper outer-reef character makes scuba the more common format.
Snorkel
This is not the most natural snorkel choice compared with shallower nearby Alligator sections.
Alligator Deep Dive Conditions Planner
Use the planner to scan this week, inspect today in local time, and understand how exposure shapes conditions at Alligator Deep.
Current Snapshot
No data
🌥️Variable
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Sunset
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Surface / Entry
Wind No data · Tide No data
Sea State
Swell No data · Period unavailable
Visibility Outlook
Rain chance No data
Wind
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Swell
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Exposure Profile at Alligator Deep
Directional shelter context for incoming swell.
Exposure Note
Hourly forecast data is not available yet.
Wildlife at Alligator Deep
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Recent Logged Visits At Alligator Deep
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
No Dive Logs Yet
Be the first to log a dive at this spot and share your experience!
Dive Spot Log Averages At Alligator Deep
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Conditions
Avg. Visibility18m
Activity
No dive activity logged yet.
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Alligator Deep Guide - Frequently Asked Questions
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
Alligator Deep Guide - Sources and Updates
Last Updated
Research Sources
www.keylargoscuba.com · Operator
Key Largo offshore boat-diving context.
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