Eagle Shipwreck
The Eagle Tire Co. shipwreck
(artificial reef) off Islamorada Florida Keys is one of the most popular advanced (deep)
dives in the area. The Wreck lies in 105' to 115' feet of water, with a shallowest point
of about 70'. Most dives are planned to about 90' to 100'. As with any deep site, there
may be some current.
The Eagle was sunk as an
artificial reef on December 19, 1985. Since then she has become covered by marine
growth & has attracted all varieties of fish including Tarpon, Jewfish (a
protected species), Permit, Angelfish, & colorful tropicals. Boats may tie to the mooring balls to provide a direct path
to the site. Descending & ascending along the lines allows pauses for clearing,
buoyancy control & safety stops. Frequently the visibility is good enough to see
the wreck from the mooring balls!
The wreck was broken in two
in September 1998 by Hurricane Georges and the stern section was moved at an angle away
from the forward section, which gives new perspectives and makes a more interesting dive.
The wheelhouse is located on the stern section and provides a good photo background. The
single propeller can be seen down below the stern.
Advanced certification
and/or previous recent (within 6 months) wreck & deep diving experience in the U.S. is a prerequisite
for Eagle Wreck dives.
Click on images to enlarge
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Jewfish
by David Root
copyright 1999 |
This Row by
Chris Milam
copyright 1999 |

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This Row by
Cathi Hill
copyright 1999 |

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This Row by
Cathi Hill
copyright 1999 |

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This Row by
Dave Ladenburg |
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