Reef C - Esparta Wreck - Florida Springs

Reef C, home to the Esparta Wreck, is a solid go-to in the Florida Springs system, especially if you appreciate a wreck with a story. We love how this site feels like an old friend; it’s not the biggest wreck you’ll ever see, but it’s got character. You’ll find the Esparta sitting upright, a former cargo ship now completely colonised by the reef. Swim through the open cargo holds, where schools of grunts and snapper often mill about, their scales catching the light filtering down from the surface. Look closely at the decks, and you’ll spot a surprising number of macro critters, from tiny nudibranchs to camouflaged blennies tucked into crevices. This site suits divers who appreciate a relaxed wreck dive with plenty of time to explore the details. It’s a great spot for photographers too, offering interesting compositions with the ship’s structure and the marine life. Our favourite time to visit is early morning, before the current picks up too much, for the best visibility and a more peaceful experience.

Location
Florida Springs, United States, North America
Coordinates
30.847416, -81.169520
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Fort Clinch State Park Aquati State Park

Best Time to Dive in Florida Springs

The warmest water temperatures in Florida Springs occur in August, averaging 31.3°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 15.9°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 15.9°C
  • February: 16.7°C
  • March: 20.4°C
  • April: 23.4°C
  • May: 26.8°C
  • June: 29.5°C
  • July: 30.9°C
  • August: 31.3°C
  • September: 29.4°C
  • October: 25.6°C (air: 22.4°C)
  • November: 21.3°C (air: 18.1°C)
  • December: 17.6°C (air: 14.8°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Florida Springs

Nearest Dive Centres to Reef C - Esparta Wreck

Marine Life in Florida Springs

Home to 145 recorded species including 122 reef fish, 8 other, 4 sharks & rays, 3 crabs & lobsters, 2 clams & mussels, 2 sea urchins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Reef C - Esparta Wreck

Based on average water temperature of 24.1°C, currents 1 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 24°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