Exploring Reefs and Wrecks: Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Adventures
Exploring Reefs and Wrecks: Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Adventures
Welcome to Marathon, where the sun kisses the ocean and adventure awaits beneath the waves! If you’re looking for an unforgettable underwater experience, you’ve come to the right place. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and fascinating shipwrecks, Marathon is a diver’s paradise. At Gulfview Getaways, our luxury waterfront properties, Tarpon Cove & Azul Sea Estate, allow you to head out directly from your dock, making it easier than ever to explore the underwater wonders that await you. So grab your gear, and let’s dive into the excitement!
Top Reefs & Wrecks to Explore
1. Sombrero Reef 
One of the most popular snorkeling and diving spots in the Florida Keys, Sombrero Reef is a must-visit. This living coral reef is home to an array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional dolphin. The reef is named for its sombrero-like shape, and it features a stunning lighthouse that adds to its charm. The shallow waters make it perfect for snorkelers, while deeper sections cater to scuba divers.
History: The Sombrero Key Lighthouse was built in 1858 and stands as a beacon for mariners. Today, it serves as a picturesque backdrop for your underwater adventures.
Location: 5.5 nautical miles from Marathon. Latitude: 24.6583° N, Longitude: 81.0861° W
2. Coffins Patch 
For those seeking a more secluded experience, Coffins Patch is a hidden gem. This patch reef is teeming with life, featuring vibrant corals and a variety of fish species. The shallow waters make it ideal for snorkelers, while the deeper areas offer exciting diving opportunities. Keep an eye out for stingrays, barracudas, and even the elusive nurse shark!
History: Named for the coffins that were once found in the area, Coffins Patch is a testament to the rich maritime history of the Keys.
Location: 6 to 7 nautical miles from Marathon. Latitude: 24.6883° N, Longitude: 81.0861° W.
3. Thunderbolt Wreck
For the thrill-seekers, the Thunderbolt wreck is an exhilarating dive site. This former Navy ship was intentionally sunk in 1986 to create an artificial reef. The wreck sits at a depth of around 120 feet, making it suitable for advanced divers. Explore the ship’s structure and witness the marine life that has made it their home, including groupers, moray eels, and colorful corals.
History: The Thunderbolt served as a cable-laying ship during its operational years, and its sinking has contributed to the vibrant ecosystem of the Florida Keys.
Location: 6 nautical miles east of Marathon. Latitude: 24.7261° N, Longitude: 81.0864° W
4. Delta Shoal 
Delta Shoal typically ranges from about 10 to 30 feet, making it accessible for both snorkelers and scuba divers.
Marine Life: The area is teeming with diverse marine species, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and various invertebrates. The vibrant coral formations create a stunning underwater landscape, making it a popular spot for underwater photography and exploration.
History: This natural underwater feature formed over thousands of years by the accumulation of sand, coral, and other marine materials. The Florida Keys, including Delta Shoal, are part of a coral reef ecosystem that has developed since the last Ice Age, making it a vital habitat for marine life.
Location: Latitude: 24.7100° N, Longitude: 81.0860° W
Best Times To Dive & Snorkel
The Florida Keys enjoy warm waters year-round, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F so you can dive any time of the year. However, the best time for snorkeling and scuba diving is from mid spring to early fall (April to September), when visibility is at its peak and marine life is most active. Mornings are often the best time for diving, as seas are usually calmer and visibility is better. Also, weekdays tend to be less crowded, providing a more enjoyable experience.
Safety Tips for Your Adventure 
Use a Dive Flag: Always display a dive flag to signal to boaters that divers are in the water, ensuring safety for everyone.
Check Equipment: Before heading out, ensure all your gear is in good working condition and fits properly. Check your mask, fins, snorkel, wetsuit, and scuba equipment for any damage or wear.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during your trip to stay hydrated in the warm sun.
Dive with a Buddy: Always dive or snorkel with a partner for safety and to share the experience.
Respect Marine Life: Observe marine life from a distance and avoid touching or disturbing corals and animals to help preserve the ecosystem.
Reef Friendly Sunscreen: Be mindful of the environment and your body. Look for mineral based ingredients like non-nano zinc oxide & titanium dioxide as active sun-blocking agents. Chemicals found in traditional sunscreens can cause coral bleaching, weaken coral structures, and disrupt the reproductive processes of marine organisms.
Dive Right In with Gulfview Getaways
At Gulfview Getaways, we offer waterfront properties, loaded with guest amenities, that provide direct access to the water, making it easy for you to embark on your snorkeling and diving adventures. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves and stepping right out onto your dock, ready to explore the vibrant underwater world of Marathon. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, our properties are the perfect base for your aquatic escapades.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your gear, book your stay with Gulfview Getaways, and get ready to dive into the adventure of a lifetime in the islands of Marathon!
The ocean is calling, and it’s time to answer..
Azul Sea Estate: 5 Beds/5 Baths, Pool & Spa, 2 Private Docks, Directly on Gulf waters, Outdoor Dining & TV, BBQ, Pool Table, Game Room, Kayaks, Bicycles, Chefs Kitchen, Multiple Balconies.
Tarpon Cove: 4 Beds/4 Baths, pool & spa, 80′ Private Dock directly on Gulf, Boat Ramp, Outdoor Bar & Dining Table, Kayaks, Bicycles, BBQ, Pool Table, Gated Property.