Castor Wreck - Florida Keys

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.

Location
Florida Keys, United States, North America
Coordinates
26.478834, -80.037130
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Lofthus Underwater Archaeological Preserve

Best Time to Dive in Florida Keys

The warmest water temperatures in Florida Keys occur in July, averaging 31.5°C (up to 34.8°C). The coolest conditions are in January at 19.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 19.3°C (air: 18.5°C)
  • February: 20.5°C (air: 21.6°C)
  • March: 23.1°C (air: 22.4°C)
  • April: 25.5°C (air: 24.3°C)
  • May: 27.8°C (air: 25.9°C)
  • June: 30.2°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • July: 31.5°C (air: 28.3°C)
  • August: 31.5°C (air: 28.3°C)
  • September: 30.2°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • October: 27.3°C (air: 26.0°C)
  • November: 24.1°C (air: 22.3°C)
  • December: 20.9°C (air: 19.8°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Florida Keys

Nearest Dive Centres to Castor Wreck

Marine Life in Florida Keys

Home to 91 recorded species including 69 reef fish, 6 sharks & rays, 3 other, 3 hard corals, 2 sea snails & nudibranchs, 2 sea urchins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Castor Wreck

Based on average water temperature of 26.0°C, currents 1 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories