Blimey, mate!  The Florida Keys Wreck Trek Passport Program is fit for a pirate’s treasure!  From now through January, 2012, you will be able to see up to nine vessels that have shipwrecked near the Keys and formed artificial reefs.

With water as clear as glass and no apparent current, it is perfect scuba diving for novice and experienced alike. The only passport you will need is the one you will be issued as a logbook by area dive shops for a series of nine wrecks. (Preview the logbook here.)

The Vandenberg artificial reef off Key West is the crown jewel of the trek, but our personal favorite is the Bibb, located off Key Largo. Also included are Spiegel Grove, Duane, Eagle, Thunderbolt, Adolphus Busch Sr., Cayman Salvager, and Joe’s Tug. All the scuba adventures are here, from shallow wrecks that have formed beautiful reefs to deeper, mysterious wrecks. We think you will agree that the Florida Keys offer some of the most diverse dive locations in the world!

Viewing each of the wrecks requires differing levels of diving expertise.  Area dive shops are offering refresher courses, plus advanced and specialty training.

What will you see?

Wreck Trek offers the chance to explore the cargo holds and to examine the soft and hard coral growth on the ships.  Many of the wreck sites are relatively shallow, making participation a great dive experience for beginners.  You will also see goliath grouper and an occasional sea turtle or shark, as well as an abundance of Caribbean reef sharks, nurse sharks, snapper, barracuda, and lobsters!

Captain Hook never brought his camera. Do not forget to bring yours because you will want to film an incredible array of coral and other sea life!

But wait – there is more… 

Each Wreck Trek diver who logs a wreck in each of the five regions of the Keys will receive a free print collage of the shipwrecks. In addition, anyone who dives to all nine wrecks will be entered into a drawing for prizes including merchandise, dive equipment, and accommodations packages in the Florida Keys.

So weigh anchor and hoist the mizzen! Let’s go to the Florida Keys!  The Florida Keys Wreck Trek Passport Program continues through January 1, 2012.  For more information visit: www.fla-keys.com/diving/wrecktrek

If you are the type of person that enjoys these unique opportunities, you should consider relocating to the Florida Keys.  Of course, when you do you will need the expertise of a local realtor,  Margarita Villoch can assist you in finding your ideal property!