

Best for beginner divers, 5-10m, boat entry, mild current.
Coffins Patch is a cluster of shallow patch reefs located near Alligator Reef. The site features a distinctive shallow area known as The Stake, marked by an iron stake protruding from the water. Depths typically range from 5 to 10 metres, with an average depth of 4 metres. Access is by boat only, as the site is situated over 6 kilometres from shore. Conditions vary, with visibility ranging from 3 to 15 metres and mild currents. The site is suitable for beginners and offers a 4/5 rating for snorkelling. Please note that high water temperatures in 2023 caused widespread coral bleaching and mortality in the Florida Keys.
24.69510, -80.94950
The pre-dawn trip is one of the best times to find lobsters crawling in plain sight before the sun comes up.
Accessible only by boat. Use mooring buoys; anchoring on living coral is illegal.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-10m
Visibility
3-15m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
25-29°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
60 min
Best Time
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Yes, this site is suitable for beginner divers and snorkellers.
The depth ranges from 5 to 10 metres, with an average depth of 4 metres.
Yes, Coffins Patch is suitable for both diving and snorkelling, with a snorkel rating of 4/5.
Access to the site requires a boat, as it is located approximately 6437 metres from the shore.
Divers and snorkellers should be aware of boat traffic, low visibility, sharp coral, strong currents, and surf.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Coffins Patch in Marathon. Water temperatures range from 25°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Coffins Patch in Marathon are April, May, June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Coffins Patch in Marathon typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Coffins Patch in Marathon typically ranges from 3 metres to 15 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.