

Best for beginner divers, 25m, boat entry, mild current.
Captain Grumpy is a boat-access reef located 3200 metres from shore at Hen and Chickens Reef. The site features a consistent depth of 25 metres and is suitable for beginners, though it requires boat transport. Divers experience mild currents and visibility ranging from 5 to 10 metres. The reef structure is composed of sharp coral, necessitating protective gloves and footwear. Night diving is permitted, offering opportunities to observe nocturnal activity. Due to the presence of sharks in the area, divers should maintain constant awareness of their surroundings. Typical dives last 60 minutes, and the site remains open throughout the year.
24.89420, -80.55700
Night diving here rewards patient divers, as lobster and moray eels move freely once the light drops. Stay clear of the coral structure, both to protect it and to avoid the sharp edges that can catch an inattentive diver.
The site is accessed by boat, located approximately 4 nautical miles from Three Waters Marina.
Recorded at this site
Depth
25m
Visibility
5-10m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
23-29°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
60 min
Best Time
Year-round
Divers may encounter yellowtail snapper, tomtates, lobster, spotted moray eels, green moray eels, viper eels, and nurse sharks.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, though it requires an Open Water certification and comfort with a 25-metre depth.
The reef sits at a consistent depth of 25 metres.
Captain Grumpy is a boat-access site located 3200 metres from shore; a boat is required to reach the reef.
The site is primarily a dive location with a depth of 25 metres, making it unsuitable for snorkelling.
Hazards include sharp coral, which can cause injury, and the presence of sharks. Protective gloves and footwear are recommended.
Diving at Captain Grumpy in Islamorada requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Captain Grumpy in Islamorada. Water temperatures range from 23°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Captain Grumpy in Islamorada are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Captain Grumpy in Islamorada typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Captain Grumpy in Islamorada typically ranges from 5 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.