Copenhagen Wreck - Florida Keys

The Copenhagen Wreck, sitting in just 30 feet of water off Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, is a real character. She’s an old 19th-century British steamship, sunk way back in 1900 after hitting a reef. What we love about this site is how accessible it is; it’s perfect for newer divers getting a feel for wrecks, but there's enough history and life here to keep experienced folks happy too. We’d suggest going at high tide for the best visibility, which can range from 10 to 20 metres. You’ll spend your dive weaving through her scattered remains – a huge boiler, a propeller shaft, and anchor chains are still visible. The wreck structure has become a busy apartment block for reef fish. Look for moray eels tucked into crevices, schools of grunts hanging around the larger sections, and barracuda often patrol the bow. The shallow depth means plenty of light, so the colours of the corals and sponges that have claimed the iron are pretty striking. It’s a great spot for an easy second dive, or just when you want a relaxed explore.

Location
Florida Keys, United States, North America
Coordinates
26.205816, -80.085140
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: SS Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen 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