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Florida Keys Scuba Diving |
DIVING IN THE FLORIDA KEYS | When it comes to diving and snorkeling, the Florida Keys unlock an underwater paradise. Here, you'll find the longest living reef in the western hemisphere; more than 500 wrecks to explore; the world's first underwater hotel, more dive shops per square mile than anywhere else in the world; and crystal clear waters with visibility up to 120 feet -- it's no wonder that divers from all over the world come to the Florida Keys. |
| Snorkeling and diving the reef off the Keys is an unforgettable experience -- a kaleidoscope no painter will ever duplicate. Exotic shapes (corals such as stag- and elkhorn, brain, tree and sea fans) and bizarre color displays (from more than 600 varieties of fish) create a living, breathing landscape. | |
| In the daytime, sunlight glimmers down through the azure water , brightening coral formations, darting fish and illuminating other vivid sea creatures. At night, a diver's vision is limited to the circle of his underwater lighting. This pool of artificial light amidst the surrounding blackness lends a surrealistic quality to the reef. It becomes a different, more mysterious creature. |
| Wreck-diving has become increasing popular in recent years -- and for good reason. Artificial reefs provide excellent night dive sites and give the natural reef a much needed rest. Though many of the Keys wrecks are historically significant (e.g. Spanish galleons and Civil War wrecks), others have been created by citizens concerned about the survival of the natural reef. | |
To go wreck or reef diving, you can take your own boat, rent a boat (be sure to have a nautical chart in hand), or have a pro from a local dive shop take you out. Maps which locate dive sites, nautical charts and any equipment you may need can be rented or purchased almost anywhere in the Keys. Commercial dive operators require scuba certification cards and logbook to verify experience levels for the diver's safety. Scuba instruction at all levels from open water through instruction certification is available at many dive operations. Underwater photography skills are taught for still and video cameras and equipment can be rented or purchased. In fact, travel light and rent all your dive gear on location. Text by SEE Magazines |
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