Location |
Lat 24 32.70 Lon 81 24.50
Marker 24: FL R 4s 20 feet 6M "24"; 10 n miles SW of Bahia Honda
Channel on a 225° course |
More on Looe Key Reef
Looe Key Reef is a classic spur and groove coral formation, with an
abundance of hard and soft corals populated by a dazzling
array of tropical reef fish. When a diver can drag his eyes away
from these, he is often rewarded with sightings of large free
swimming species such as eagle rays, turtles, and schools of tarpon.
Looe Key is a designated “No Take Zone” and all divers and
snorkelers are asked to abide by the letter and the spirit of this
regulation. (Florida
Keys National Marine Sanctuary ).
|
Markers |
54 buoys: 1-32 are on
central reef [1' to 30' deep]; 33-39 are shoreward [3' to 15'];
40-49 are 1 mile N of Marker 24 [16' depth]; 50-54 are SW of Marker
24 [30' to 70'] |
Depth |
5'-35' |
Experience Level:
Novice to Advanced
|
History |
The frigate,
H.M.S. Looe, accidentally ran hard aground in 1744; remains of the ship
lie between two fingers of coral near the eastern end of the reef although
only the ballast and anchor remain visible to the trained eye.
|
Present Condition |
200 yds x 800 yds and regarded as one of the
finest dives in the Keys, viz can be a problem at times |
Sea-Life |
Variety of corals, monastera, sea fans and many fish
species, lobster |
Risks
Warnings |
Marine Sanctuary, no fishing or lobstering
Deeper areas encounter occasional difficult currents |
Local Dive Shops |
Looe Key Reef
Resort & Dive Center |
Web Sources |
Looe Key (SPA, RO) |