Florida Keys, United States
    Lofthus Underwater Archaeological Preserve

    Castor Wreck

    Best months: Apr–Jun

    Protected Area

    Lofthus Underwater Archaeological Preserve

    Why dive here

    With 87+ marine species recorded in the area - including bull sharks, dolphins, hammerhead sharks, seahorses and sea turtles - Castor Wreck offers some of Florida Keys's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 19-32°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeApr–Jun
    WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit
    Marine lifeBull Sharks, Dolphins, Hammerhead Sharks, Seahorses and Sea Turtles · 87+ species recorded
    Water19-32°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    The Castor Wreck in the Florida Keys is one of those dives that just hits differently. We love its history, a 190-foot freighter sunk deliberately as part of the Shipwreck Trail, and you can really feel that sense of purpose when you’re finning over its deck. The structure itself is fantastic for exploring, with open cargo holds that are easy to penetrate and still have some of the original machinery visible. You’ll weave through the superstructure, often seeing schools of grunts and snapper hanging out in the darker recesses. What truly makes the Castor special for us, though, is how nature has reclaimed it. The wreck is absolutely carpeted in corals – big brain corals, sea fans, and sponges that create a living sculpture. Look closely and you’ll spot moray eels tucked into crevices, barracuda patrolling the mast, and sometimes even a nurse shark resting under an overhang. We’d suggest going early in the morning, before the crowds, when the light filters down through the water and illuminates the wreck in a way that’s just magic. It’s a comfortable dive, usually with moderate currents, making it perfect for divers who want a relaxed wreck experience with plenty to see.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Castor Wreck

    Castor Wreck Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Castor Wreck, sourced from NOAA NDBC + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: 8725520 - Fort Myers, FL (28km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    27°C

    81°F · Range: 20.9–31.1°C

    Air Temperature

    26°C

    79°F

    Current Speed

    0 cm/s

    Direction: S (180°)

    Salinity

    35.98 PSU

    Wind Speed

    2.7 m/s

    5.2 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1014.5 hPa

    Based on 5 years of monitoring data · Data sources: NOAA NDBC + Copernicus Marine (EU)

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