

Best for advanced divers, 12-44m, boat entry, moderate current.
The USS Vandenberg is a 160-metre decommissioned military transport vessel resting upright on a sandy bottom. The wreck spans depths from 12 to 44 metres, with the upper superstructure providing a shallower profile for advanced divers. Access is by boat only, located approximately 11 kilometres from shore. Divers encounter moderate currents and visibility ranging from 10 to 25 metres. Due to the significant depth and complex overhead environments within the ship, this site is strictly for advanced divers. Proper planning for bottom time and current management is essential for a safe dive on this massive artificial reef.
24.52840, -81.76870
Current direction and strength vary considerably with tidal cycles, so coordinate your descent time with your dive operator to hit the slack or a manageable drift. The upper superstructure starts around 12 metres and gives less experienced advanced divers a sensible ceiling before dropping to the deeper sections of the hull.
Access is via boat charter from Key West.
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Depth
12-44m
Visibility
10-25m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
23-30°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
240 min
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to the significant depth, overhead environments, and moderate currents.
The wreck sits on a sandy bottom at depths ranging from 12 to 44 metres.
The USS Vandenberg is located 11 kilometres from shore and requires boat access.
Snorkelling is not recommended as the primary structure starts at 12 metres and the site is designed for deep scuba diving.
Hazards include significant depth, overhead environments within the wreck, and moderate currents that vary with tidal cycles.
Diving at USS Vandenberg (Wreck) in Key West requires the following certifications: Advanced, Deep. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at USS Vandenberg (Wreck) in Key West. Water temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C.
Expect moderate currents at USS Vandenberg (Wreck) in Key West. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at USS Vandenberg (Wreck) in Key West typically ranges from 10 metres to 25 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.