The Benwood Wreck
Protected Area
French Reef Sanctuary Preserva Sanctuary
Why dive here
With 87+ marine species recorded in the area - including bull sharks, dolphins, hammerhead sharks, seahorses and sea turtles - The Benwood Wreck offers some of Florida Keys's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 19-32°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Benwood Wreck, just offshore from Key Largo, is a solid choice for a multi-level dive. We usually start around 15 metres, exploring the bow and parts of the cargo holds, where schools of grunts and snapper like to hang out. Descending to the deeper sections, maybe 20-25 metres, the stern is still surprisingly intact, home to green morays and the occasional nurse shark tucked into crevices. It's a great spot for newer wreck divers, with minimal current most days and plenty of open areas to peek into without serious penetration. Just keep an eye on your depth, as it’s easy to drift deeper than you intend while admiring the structure.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Nearest Dive Centres to The Benwood Wreck
Dive shops near The Benwood Wreck
Dive Shop
Ocean First Key Largo, LLC
Rainbow Reef Dive Center (Boat Docks)
Sundiver Boat Dock
Rainbow Reef Retail Store
Rainbow Reef Dive Center (Boat Docks)
Reviews for The Benwood Wreck
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for The Benwood Wreck
The Benwood Wreck Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for The Benwood Wreck, sourced from NOAA NDBC + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: 8725520 - Fort Myers, FL (28km away)
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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