Diving atSt. Anne D' Auray (United States)
The St. Anne D' Auray wreck offers a diving experience shaped significantly by prevailing conditions in its South Florida waters. While air temperatures generally remain warm, ranging from 21°C to 29°C (70-84°F) throughout the year, variable wave heights and wind speeds can influence surface conditions. Divers should anticipate average wave heights typically under a meter, though stronger winds, especially during late autumn and winter months, might create choppier seas. These environmental factors dictate the day's dive comfort and visibility.
Tonight's objective overview for St. Anne D' Auray shows an air temperature of 24.2°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.5m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
25.6177, -80.0905
Dive Site Overview
Originally a 110-ft North Atlantic trawler, St. Anne D' Auray stands as a prominent artificial reef, having been purposefully sunk in 1986. Resting in about 23 meters (75 ft) of water, this site presents an exciting opportunity for Advanced Open Water divers.
Extensive modifications were carried out before its sinking, creating multiple access points through the bulkheads. Divers can explore its interior, navigating through what were once the halls, the dining room, and the galley, leading directly into the engine room.
This deliberate design provides a compelling, interactive wreck experience. While the wreck did sustain damage from Hurricane Andrew in 1992, particularly in certain sections that were torn apart, its main structure remains largely intact.
Over time, the trawler has become heavily encrusted with marine growth, transforming it into a vibrant habitat that draws a variety of local marine life. Its accessible interior and status as an established artificial reef contribute to its distinctive appeal for those seeking more than a typical reef dive.
Best Time to Dive
Evaluating optimal dive periods for the St. Anne D' Auray depends on a combination of climate factors. Months showing "Good" dive scores, such as January through September and November, typically present favorable conditions. Air temperatures remain quite comfortable year-round, ranging from a mild 21.2°C (70°F) in January to a warmer 28.9°C (84°F) in August. Rainfall is generally low, although June, September, and October can see slightly higher precipitation, with June averaging 7.5 mm and October 5.7 mm. For those prioritizing calmer surface conditions, the summer months, particularly July and August, often report lower average wave heights, around 0.49 meters to 0.61 meters, and reduced wind speeds. October and December register "Moderate" dive scores, largely due to increased wave heights and wind. While conditions are generally suitable for diving through most of the year, late spring and summer months provide a comfortable balance of warm air and relatively tranquil seas, making them often preferred for extended underwater exploration.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
The depth profile for St. Anne D' Auray sits comfortably within typical recreational diving limits, ranging from a minimum of 14 meters (45 ft) to a maximum depth of 23 meters (75 ft). Moderate depths mean divers can explore the wreck without significant concerns for advanced decompression protocols, provided proper planning. Within this range, the wreck’s intact structure invites exploration. Many intentionally created openings allow for swim-throughs into the interior, including passages to the former dining room, galley, and engine room. Currents in the area, while not consistently reported for this specific wreck, can vary depending on regional conditions, occasionally requiring divers to manage a drift. Visibility here is often good, allowing clear views of the extensive marine growth covering the trawler and the surrounding sand, contributing to an engaging underwater experience.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Diving the St. Anne D' Auray requires a minimum certification of Advanced Open Water Diver, reflecting the site's characteristics. Its moderate depth and the opportunity for interior exploration necessitate appropriate training and experience. Divers planning to penetrate the wreck’s interior—such as navigating its halls or engine room—must possess a wreck diving specialty certification and proper equipment. Though damaged by Hurricane Andrew, the wreck is considered largely stable; however, overhead environments always carry inherent risks that demand meticulous planning and adherence to safety protocols. Maintain excellent buoyancy control to avoid disturbing silt and practice conservative no-decompression limits. Staying updated on local current reports is also advisable, as variable conditions might be encountered.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Individual comfort in the water can vary significantly from diver to diver, even under the same conditions.
For most recreational dives, 3mm wetsuit should provide comfortable protection. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Forecast trends indicate little change in overall diving conditions during the next few days.
Current temperature readings suggest that the water at St. Anne D' Auray is around 25°C (78°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 24°C (76°F).
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Marine Life at St. Anne D' Auray
St. Anne D' Auray has transformed into a vibrant underwater landscape, providing shelter and sustenance for a diverse array of marine life. Its heavily encrusted structure, adorned with various corals and sponges, attracts numerous fish species. Divers frequently report sightings of barracuda, various snapper, and schools of jacks patrolling the wreck's perimeter. Larger inhabitants, such as goliath grouper, sea turtles, and different shark species, are often observed in the vicinity, utilizing the wreck for refuge or as a feeding ground. Moray eels also find homes within the wreck's crevices. This artificial reef successfully boosts the local ecosystem by offering a complex habitat where life thrives.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the St. Anne D' Auray wreck located?
This shipwreck is located within Biscayne National Park in the United States, off the coast of Miami, Florida. It's an accessible artificial reef for divers in the region.
What type of vessel was the St. Anne D' Auray?
The St. Anne D' Auray was originally a 110-ft North Atlantic trawler. It was purposefully sunk in 1986 to create an artificial reef.
What are the depths for diving this wreck?
Divers will find the St. Anne D' Auray at a minimum depth of 14 meters (45 ft) and a maximum depth of 23 meters (75 ft). This range makes it suitable for recreational diving within specific certification levels.
What certification level is required for this dive?
An Advanced Open Water Diver certification is required to safely dive the St. Anne D' Auray. Deeper penetration within the wreck additionally necessitates a wreck diving specialty.
Is wreck penetration possible at St. Anne D' Auray?
Yes, the wreck features several created openings allowing access to its interior. Divers can explore former halls, the dining room, galley, and engine room with proper training and equipment.
What marine life can be seen on the wreck?
The St. Anne D' Auray acts as a thriving marine habitat. Divers often encounter barracuda, goliath grouper, sea turtles, various sharks, moray eels, and numerous tropical fish species.
How did hurricanes affect the wreck?
Hurricane Andrew significantly impacted the wreck in 1992, tearing apart some sections. However, the St. Anne D' Auray largely remains intact and is covered in extensive marine growth.
When is the best time to dive the St. Anne D' Auray?
Diving is generally good throughout the year, with "Good" dive scores for most months. Late spring and summer often provide warmer air temperatures and calmer seas, making them a comfortable choice.
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