15-30m
    Florida Keys, United States
    USS Massachusetts (BB-2) Underwater Archaeological Preserve

    Tessie

    Best months: Apr–Jun

    Protected Area

    USS Massachusetts (BB-2) Underwater Archaeological Preserve

    Why dive here

    With 87+ marine species recorded in the area - including bull sharks, dolphins, hammerhead sharks, seahorses and sea turtles - Tessie 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 · max 15-30m
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    The Tessie is a peculiar little spot in the Keys. We’ve found it to be a sandy bottom dive, generally pretty shallow, which makes it good for longer bottom times. Don't expect dramatic coral formations here. Instead, you'll want to slow down and really scour the sand for what's lurking. We’ve regularly spotted critters like the Lancer Stargazer, buried with just its eyes poking out, and Dusky Flounder perfectly camouflaged. It’s a site for macro enthusiasts or divers who enjoy a treasure hunt, rather than those seeking big pelagics or vibrant reefs.

    Typical Tessie Dive Profile

    5m10m15mSafety Stop0m15m max~50 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

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

    Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.

    Today05:4817:2511h 37m daylightGolden hour 16:53

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Tessie

    Tessie Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Tessie, 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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