Middle Keys Dive site page: Coffins Patch

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Divesite map with recommended diveplan



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MileMarker: 0
Location: Lat 24 40.60 Lon 80 58.50
4 nm offshore of Marathon; 3 1/2 mile SE of Key Colony Beach;
Markers: 6-foot piling on SW end. Anchor 50 yards E or W of the piling.
There are several sections of reef. Lining up with the piling and Sombrero light, boaters will encounter several other patches of the reef (toward Sombrero) at 1 1/4 miles, and further another 1/4 mile.
Depth Range: 15 to 30 feet deep
Skill Level req.: beginner
Risks/Warnings: SPA area [Sanctuary Preservation Area], no fishing or lobstering allowed
History
The Spanish Galleon Ignacio wrecked here. It was part of the 1733 treasure fleet that wrecked here during a horrific hurricane.The San Jose, El Infante, El Capitan, and San Pedro are much more visible than the Ignacio.
Dive Description
Coffins Patch is a series of small patch reefs, very near to the Thunderbolt. Consequently, it frequently is the site of the second dive following the deep first dive. Shallow depths and beautiful marine life define the divesite. Spanish lobster and spiny lobster commonly hide under the numerous brain coral and elkhorn coral. Staghorn coral and the ever-nasty fire coral accent the tops of the shallow reefs. These patch reefs are formed around large, circular living reef sections, rather than growing on an independent substrate (like a wreck or pile of rock). French grunts, mutton snapper, and all 5 of the Keys angelfish species (queen, blue, French, gray, and rock beauty). Be sure to bring your Fish ID cards because this dive is really filled with diverse species.

Divers should be warned that Coffins Patch has been designated a SPA area [Sanctuary Preservation Area] and fishing as well as lobstering are strictly prohibited.


Divesite info by: Jonathan Brinkman


Divelog for Coffins Patch
Add your dive to the divelog below!! CLICK HERE.

Diver Name: coffin test Diver's email:
Diver Hometown: test
Ave. Depth (ft.): 55 ft. Date of Dive: Apr-04-1999
Max. Depth (ft.): 55 ft. Date of log entry: Jul-31-1999
Est. Air Temp (°F): 55°F Ave. Visibility-ft.: 12 ft.
Est. Water Temp (°F): 55°F Seas Condition: Heavy (5-6')
Diver comments on dive: test dive comment
Diveshop used: World Watersport test shop comment





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