Diving atThe Eagle Shipwreck 75-110FT (United States)
The Eagle Shipwreck remains a premier dive site in the Florida Keys, even decades after its intentional sinking. Currently resting on its starboard side, this 287-foot freighter presents an evocative silhouette beneath the waves, testament to its resilience despite repeated hurricane encounters. Known as a 'crown jewel' for wreck divers, the Eagle consistently draws interest for its rich history and accessible structure.
Tonight's objective overview for The Eagle Shipwreck 75-110FT shows an air temperature of 25.2°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.52m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
24.8223, -80.5559
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
This iconic wreck, the Eagle, distinguishes itself through a captivating blend of history and natural forces. Originally a 287-foot (87 m) freighter launched in 1962, it was intentionally scuttled in 1985 as part of an artificial reef program off Islamorada.
While initially landing upright, subsequent powerful storms, particularly Hurricane Georges in 1998, dramatically altered its structure, breaking the ship in half and laying it down on its starboard side at about 33.5 m (110 ft). Hurricane Irma in 2017 further compromised the bow section, creating an appearance that divers often describe as 'torpedoed'. Navigating this artificial reef reveals numerous open penetrations, making it an engaging experience for certified wreck divers.
Its massive propeller and anchor chain can be observed leading out into the surrounding sandy bottom.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a dive to the Eagle Shipwreck often prioritizes calm conditions and comfortable air temperatures. The period from May to September generally offers the best dive scores, coinciding with warmer air temperatures, which average between 26.9°C (80°F) in May and 29.3°C (85°F) in August. During these months, wave heights tend to be lower, typically below 0.8 meters (2.6 feet), and wind speeds are also less impactful. Months like January, April, October, and December, while still offering moderate dive conditions, see slightly higher average wave heights, sometimes exceeding 1 meter (3.3 feet), and stronger winds, averaging above 30 km/h (18.6 mph). Rain levels are variable throughout the year but typically remain manageable.
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
Divers approach this wreck by following a mooring line down to its hull, which is first encountered around 23 m (75 ft). The Eagle's maximum depth at the sandy bottom is approximately 33.5 m (110 ft). Its unique posture, broken in two and resting on its side, offers open access to many internal sections without requiring advanced penetration techniques. For instance, the pilot house is a popular swim-through, described as spacious with windows all around, allowing light to enter and minimizing claustrophobia. Exploring the wreck's exterior reveals the impressive propeller and the anchor chain extending into the sand. Water temperatures are not consistently reported in available data, but local reports mention clear, warm waters, which generally characterize the Florida Keys.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Exploring the Eagle Shipwreck requires careful attention to its structure and your dive plan. While the wreck provides many open penetrations, proper wreck diving certification and experience are always recommended for exploring overhead environments. Checking your gauges frequently is crucial due to the depth range, and always monitor no-decompression limits. Given the history of hurricane damage, some sections may have unstable debris. Maintaining neutral buoyancy helps protect both the wreck and the marine life colonizing it. Always dive within your training and comfort level.
Recommended Equipment
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Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Forecast trends indicate little change in overall diving conditions during the next few days.
Two divers in the same water temperature may experience very different comfort levels.
Many divers find that 2-3mm shorty or light wetsuit offers the right level of insulation for conditions like these. Divers preparing to enter the water at The Eagle Shipwreck 75-110FT will likely find temperatures around 26°C (80°F) today. Surface air temperatures are resting at 25°C (77°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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Currency
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Marine Life at The Eagle Shipwreck 75-110FT
The Eagle Shipwreck teems with diverse marine inhabitants, thriving on its surfaces and within its recesses. Divers frequently encounter huge Goliath groupers, often found sheltering within the wreck's larger openings. Keep an eye out for graceful eagle rays cruising the perimeter, alongside impressive bull sharks which, despite their size, are often described as timid around divers. Massive sea turtles are commonly spotted navigating the wreck, while schooling pelagic fish like pompano and amberjack often congregate around the structure. Vibrant coral growth and colorful sponges have extensively colonized the wreck, creating an artificial reef ecosystem.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Eagle Shipwreck?
A 287-foot (87 m) former freighter, the Eagle, was intentionally sunk in 1985 as part of the Florida Keys artificial reef program. It subsequently suffered significant damage from hurricanes, notably Hurricane Georges in 1998 and Hurricane Irma in 2017, breaking the ship in half and laying it on its starboard side.
How deep is the Eagle Shipwreck?
Divers will typically encounter the wreck's hull at approximately 23 m (75 ft). Its deepest sections, where it rests on the sandy bottom, reach the maximum recreational depth.
Can divers penetrate The Eagle Shipwreck?
Yes, due to hurricane damage fracturing the ship and opening its interior, the Eagle Shipwreck features numerous open penetrations. Its pilot house is a particularly popular and accessible swim-through, often used for training.
What caused the wreck to break apart?
Hurricane Georges in 1998 was the primary cause of the wreck breaking in half and listing on its side. Later, Hurricane Irma in 2017 delivered further damage, particularly affecting the bow section and other parts of the ship.
What marine life can be seen at The Eagle Shipwreck?
Home to a variety of marine life, the wreck attracts large Goliath groupers, eagle rays, and bull sharks. Divers also commonly spot massive sea turtles, as well as schooling fish like pompano and amberjack around the structure.
Is The Eagle suitable for less experienced wreck divers?
While it's considered an 'easy dive' to simply follow the mooring line and explore the exterior, the wreck's open penetrations make it suitable for divers with some wreck diving experience or those undergoing basic wreck training. Its pilot house, in particular, is noted for being a non-claustrophobic entry point.
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