Delta Shoal The Barge - Florida Keys

We love the Delta Shoal Barge for its sheer accessibility and the way it’s become such an artificial reef. This isn't some deep, dark, advanced wreck; it’s a relatively shallow dive, perfect for knocking out two dives in one tank, really. The visibility here is usually pretty decent, letting you take in the entire structure, which is more of a broken-up debris field than a pristine wreck. What you'll find here is a classic example of a working barge, now completely overtaken by the ocean. As you descend, the first thing you notice is the sheer volume of schooling fish – we're talking big schools of grunts and snappers, circling the larger sections of the wreckage. We've seen some impressive Goliath groupers lurking in the shadows, particularly in the deeper, more intact sections. Look closely, and you'll spot lobsters tucked into every crevice, along with the occasional moray eel peeking out. It’s a great spot for newer wreck divers or those looking for a relaxed dive with plenty of life without the challenge of strong currents or extreme depths.

Location
Florida Keys, United States, North America
Coordinates
24.629667, -81.091500
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Sombrero Key Sanctuary Preserva Sanctuary

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 Delta Shoal The Barge

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 Delta Shoal The Barge

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