Key Largo less well known dive sites

[underachiever]

Are there less well know dive sites(other then molasses, french, city of wash.,etc.) around Key Largo? Saw something in another thread about the outer reef and "deep balls". Are there other sites that maybe do or do not have mooring balls besides the well known ones. Maybe some walls or reefs just a little deeper or less traffic over the years. And who are some dive operations that will take you there? We have been to Carysfort with Silent World but would like to go to some other new sites. I also remember reading somethhing about a wall or something out from the Benwood wreck. Have not explored that yet either. Just looking to gather some info for the spring trip and maybe do some new dives.

Thanks for the info

 

[Capt Gary]

There is a drop off at the Benwood. Goes down to 80' right off the bow. Nice dive when the visibility is there.

Then about 8 miles south of Key Largo are some deep reefs that we drift dive. Conch Wall and XXX are two that start at 50' and drop to 95' at a 30 to 40 degree angle. They are spur and grove structures and have some nice structure. Then there's Bettys, 40' ledge, Capt Toms, Davie Crocker and Davis Deep. All are anchor sites right off Tavernier/Islamorada and range from 40' to 60' except for Davis Deep.

These are but a few anchor sites we go to. Let me know if you have any specific questions about the area.

Good Diving,

 

[CBulla]

Dang.. I need to dive with Gary and the gang again.. I want to dive different sites than the 'usual' drop off sites

 

[KeyLargoBrent]

In a word... YES! There are several Key Largo dive sites that are "off the beaten path". Some can be reached from existing moorings (like the deep dropoff near the Benwood). Others require anchoring or live-boating techniques that are not practiced by the majority of local dive operators.

The smaller ops tend to be more flexible in terms of site selection, but be sure to let them know what you're looking for when you call to book. Our site itinerary, for example, is based on the request of the first party to book each particular trip.

 

[CBulla]

Hmmm... diving more with Brent to...

 

[Walter]

Davis Deep is a great site!

 

[cudachaser]

NOAA's Aquarius lab is really neat...but you need permissions from NOAA to dive it

 

[ffestpirate]

Not exactly hidden. but French Reef rules. One of my favorite must see dives in the Keys

 

[kidsdream]

Lots of lesser known sites. Many operator have some of their "own" sites, that include patch reefs and spots North and South of Key Largo (I will die with the secret GPS coordinates).

I would certainly try to get somebody to take you to North, North Dry Rocks - lush, soft corals.

 

[underachiever]

Thanks for all the tips. We have been to NN dry rocks a couple of times, French Reef several, both great.

Gary and Brent, will probably see you later this year. Want to dive some of your suggestions. What MM are you guys at?

Any more hidden spots? Is there such a place as "deep balls"?

thanks again