USS Spiegel Grove (Wreck)

Type:

Scuba DivingFreediving

Entry:⚓Boat Entry

Difficulty:Intermediate

Tags:

Artificial ReefDeepWreck

About This Dive Spot

A well-known wreck dive in the Florida Keys, located about 6 miles off Key Largo. The 500-foot wreck starts around 60 ft and drops to over 100 ft, offering large structure and multiple open passageways. The wreck attracts a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, turtles, and schooling reef fish.

Planning details

Reported depth and seasonality.

Reported depth

18.3m - 30.5m

Depth note

The wreck begins around 60 ft and drops to over 100 ft.

Safety & access

Hazards, restrictions, and required precautions.

Hazards

Overhead environmentDangerous wildlife

Safety notes

Depth increases beyond 100 ft, and interior swim-through areas create an overhead environment. Sharks may be present.

Local intel

Community notes to help plan your visit.

Tailored notes for different activities.

Scuba

A wreck dive with multiple see-through passageways and swim-throughs, suitable for newer and experienced divers depending on depth and route chosen.

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Spots Near USS Spiegel Grove (Wreck)

📍 11.1 km

Uss Spiegel Grove

⚓

The USS Spiegel Grove is a decommissioned Thomaston-class dock landing ship that now sits upside-down as a wreck dive. It lies at around 130 ft/40 m, offering divers the chance to explore its large structure and the marine life that has settled on and around it. Access to the site is by boat.

📍 11.5 km

French Reef

⚓

French Reef, located off Key Largo, features swim-throughs at depths between 5 and 12 meters (15 to 40 feet). Divers can encounter large pelagics including manta rays, hammerhead sharks, blacktip reef sharks, and eagle rays. Diving conditions are generally warm and calm year-round.

📍 11.6 km

Benwood

⚓

Benwood is the wreck of a former steam cargo ship resting in shallow water near a reef. The site lies between about 7 and 14 meters, with much of the wreck still intact and the bow and hull clearly visible. The structure attracts a variety of marine life, including reef sharks, and it is commonly chosen for night diving. It is described as suitable for divers across all experience levels.

📍 11.9 km

Usgs Duane

⚓

The Duane is a U.S. Coast Guard cutter that was intentionally sunk in 1987 to form an artificial reef. The wreck rests upright and is known for being surrounded by schools of fish. A standout feature for divers is the crow’s nest area, which is often treated as a prime subject for underwater photography.

📍 12.0 km

Hardbottom Cave

Not Set

Hardbottom Cave sits within the French Reef Sanctuary Protected Area and features a swim-through cave formation. The area is described as a fun passage to explore, with depths around 20–35 ft. Divers often spot nurse sharks in and around the cave, and the site is noted for abundant marine life. Eagle rays are said to be likely in summer.

📍 13.6 km

USCG Duane (Wreck)

⚓

The Duane is a retired ship intentionally sunk on November 26, 1987 to form an artificial reef near Key Largo, about a mile south of Molasses Reef. It is described as an advanced-to-expert dive site. Marine life commonly seen in and around the wreck includes sharks and a variety of reef fish, with chances of rays and turtles.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best entry point at USS Spiegel Grove (Wreck)?

Entry at USS Spiegel Grove (Wreck) is detailed in the spot description above. Look for specific landmarks, access paths, and any tide or condition requirements. Local divers often share updated entry tips in their dive logs.

What conditions are best for diving USS Spiegel Grove (Wreck)?

Optimal conditions at USS Spiegel Grove (Wreck) depend on several factors including tide, wind, and season. Check recent dive logs for current condition reports and patterns. Generally, calmer seas and high tide provide better visibility and easier entry.

What is the maximum depth and typical visibility at USS Spiegel Grove (Wreck)?

Depth and visibility information for USS Spiegel Grove (Wreck) can be found in the spot details and recent dive logs. Conditions can vary significantly based on weather, tide, and season. Always plan your dive according to current conditions and your certification level.

Are there any safety considerations or local etiquette at USS Spiegel Grove (Wreck)?

When diving USS Spiegel Grove (Wreck), respect local regulations, marine life, and other water users. Be aware of any specific hazards like currents or boat traffic mentioned in the spot description. Follow Leave No Trace principles and local diving etiquette.