The Cayman Salvager in Key West is one of the most exciting Key West wreck dives, offering experienced scuba divers an incredible opportunity to explore a historic ship transformed into a thriving artificial reef. Resting approximately seven miles southeast of Key West in about 90 feet of water, this 187-foot steel vessel was intentionally sunk in 1985 to create marine habitat after an unexpected twist—a tow cable snapped before it reached its planned destination, leaving it perfectly positioned for recreational divers to enjoy today.
Now covered with colorful corals, sponges, and marine growth, the Cayman Salvager has become home to an abundance of sea life. Key West Divers regularly encounter giant grouper, moray eels, barracuda, schools of permit, silversides, bar jacks, octopus, and even loggerhead sea turtles cruising around the wreck. The ship remains largely intact and upright, making it a favorite for underwater photography and exploration. Thanks to its location near the Gulf Stream, visibility is often exceptional, although stronger currents make this dive best suited for advanced or experienced scuba divers seeking one of the premier Key West diving adventures.
People love diving the Cayman Salvager in Key West because it’s a premier diving destination in the Florida Keys. is a spectacular place to snorkel or dive in Key West. It’s great for everyone! It’s a great destination in Key West for underwater photography and one of the premier Key West diving location. We made a list of the why’s for you!
- One of the premier Key West wreck diving destinations
- 187-foot steel buoy tender intentionally sunk as an artificial reef in 1985
- Located approximately 7 miles southeast of Key West
- Resting upright in approximately 90–92 feet of water
- Excellent visibility thanks to its proximity to the Gulf Stream
- Popular with advanced recreational divers
- Home to grouper, moray eels, octopus, loggerhead sea turtles, barracuda, permit, bar jacks, and large schools of tropical fish
- Covered with colorful corals, sponges, and thriving marine life
- Outstanding opportunities for underwater photography
- Features interesting artifacts including cable equipment and other remnants of the ship’s working history
- Frequently paired with a nearby reef dive for an unforgettable two-tank Key West diving adventure
Please avoid touching, standing on or collecting coral. Secure loose belongings before entering the water and follow all instructions provided by the captain and crew.
Certified divers should arrive prepared with the documentation and personal items needed for a safe and comfortable day of Key West diving:
Certified divers should arrive prepared with the documentation and personal items needed for a safe and comfortable day of Key West diving:
- Scuba certification card or digital certification
- Dive logbook, especially when returning after time away from diving
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Reef-friendly sunscreen
- Refillable water bottle
- Rash guard or appropriate exposure protection
- Personal mask, dive computer or other preferred equipment
- Waterproof camera with a secure attachment
- Dry bag for clothing and valuables
- Light jacket or windbreaker
- Seasickness medication, when needed
- A change of dry clothes
- Cash or card for gratuities, rentals and purchases
- Any required personal medications
Divers should confirm what rental equipment is included when making their reservation. Remember to allow at least 24 hours between scuba diving and flying. Lost Reef Adventures also asks divers to bring their certification card and logbook.
- Approximately 30 years of local expertise: Lost Reef Adventures brings decades of experience exploring the reefs and wrecks surrounding Key West.
- Official PADI 5-Star Dive Center: Lost Reef is recognized as a PADI 5-Star Dive Center and offers professional scuba instruction and certification programs.
- Full-service Key West dive shop: Guests can arrange dive trips, snorkeling excursions, scuba instruction, equipment rentals, air fills and nitrox services in one convenient location.
- Twice-daily excursions: Morning and afternoon departures provide visitors with more flexibility when planning their Key West vacation.
- Experiences for different skill levels: Lost Reef welcomes snorkelers, newly certified divers and experienced scuba divers seeking reef or wreck adventures.
- Professional scuba training: Programs include Discover Scuba experiences, checkout dives and PADI certification courses.
- Knowledge of local dive sites: The team knows the reefs, wrecks and seasonal conditions surrounding Key West and selects destinations according to the day’s conditions.
- Small-group diving opportunities: Smaller groups can provide a more personal experience and more individual attention.
- Equipment available onsite: Scuba and snorkeling equipment is available for rent or purchase through the full-service shop.
- Convenient marina location: Lost Reef Adventures is based at the Key West Bight Marina in the Historic Seaport, making it easy to reach from Old Town.
- Safety-focused preparation: Guests receive instructions and guidance from trained professionals before entering the water.
- A complete Key West underwater experience: From first-time snorkeling to advanced reef and wreck diving, Lost Reef Adventures helps visitors discover the marine environment that makes the Florida Keys famous.