Fingers Reef provide divers with unforgettable experiences, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the underwater world in Key West. Whether exploring unique coral formations or encountering fascinating marine life, each dive offers something special.

Article at a Glance

• Location: Fingers Reef is situated near Key West, Florida, within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
• Depth Range: The dive site features depths ranging from approximately 35 to 75 feet (10.5 to 23 meters), making it accessible for both beginners and advanced divers.
• Visibility: Divers can typically enjoy excellent visibility, often between 20 to 30 meters (65 to 100 feet), especially during the summer months.
• Marine Life: The reef is home to a diverse array of marine species, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, nurse sharks, and vibrant coral formations.
• Best Time to Dive: The optimal diving season runs from late spring through early fall (June to November), when water temperatures are warm and conditions are generally calm.
• Guided Tours: Numerous dive operators offer guided tours, providing personalized attention and support for divers of all experience levels.
• Unique Features: Fingers Reef boasts unique coral formations, swim-throughs, and a rich underwater ecosystem, making it an exciting destination for divers and underwater photographers alike.

Fingers Reef Key West

Fingers Reef, located near Key West, is a notable dive site characterized by its unique coral formations that resemble fingers extending into the ocean. This underwater haven is part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, known for its rich biodiversity and vibrant marine life.

Overview of Fingers Reef

• Location: Approximately six miles offshore from Key West.
• Depth: Ranges from 10 to 40 feet, making it accessible for divers of all experience levels.
• Marine Life: Home to a variety of species including clownfish, angelfish, turtles, and occasionally manta rays. The reef also features numerous smaller creatures such as scorpionfish and nudibranchs, making it a paradise for macro photographers.

What to Expect

• Guided Tours: Dive centers like Silent World Dive Center offer guided tours to Fingers Reef, ensuring safety and comfort. These tours typically include equipment rental and amenities such as snacks and water.
• Diving Conditions: The reef is known for its clear waters and vibrant coral formations. Divers can enjoy longer bottom times due to the shallow depths, which allows for more exploration without the pressure of deeper dives.

Tour Options

• Scuba Diving: Suitable for certified divers. The tours often include two dives at different locations within the reef.
• Snorkeling: Available for those who prefer to explore the surface; conditions permitting, snorkelers can also enjoy the rich marine life.

Planning Your Trip

To dive at Fingers Reef:

1. Book in Advance: Reservations are recommended to secure your spot.
2. Equipment: Most dive centers provide necessary gear, but you can bring your own if preferred.
3. Certification: New divers can take certification courses offered by dive centers before participating in dives.

What Marine Life Can I Expect To See?

Common Marine Species

• Tropical Fish: Huge schools of colorful tropical fish are prevalent, including species like:
  • Blue Tang: Recognizable by its bright blue color and yellow tail.
  • Yellowtail Snapper: Known for its bright yellow stripe and forked tail.
  • Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish): Distinguished by its vibrant coloration.
• Sharks: Various shark species inhabit the area:
  • Nurse Sharks: Generally docile and often found resting on the seafloor.
  • Hammerhead Sharks: Occasionally seen, particularly in warmer months.
• Eels: Different types of eels, including:
  • Green Eels: Commonly found hiding in crevices.
  • Moray Eels: Often spotted under ledges.
• Lobsters and Crabs:
  • Caribbean Spiny Lobster: Active mostly at night, they can often be seen hiding among the rocks.
  • Various Crabs: Including stone crabs, which are known for their large claws.
• Sea Turtles: Loggerhead turtles are frequently sighted in the waters around the reef.

Invertebrates and Other Marine Life

• Stingrays: Southern and Atlantic stingrays can be seen gliding along the sandy bottom.
• Queen Conch: This large mollusk is often found in the sandy areas around the reef.
• Sea Urchins and Starfish: Various species inhabit the ocean floor, contributing to the reef’s ecosystem.

Unique Features of Fingers Reef

Fingers Reef is characterized by its coral formations that create a habitat for these species. The reef provides shelter and breeding grounds, making it a vibrant ecosystem. The shallow depths (around 10 to 40 feet) allow for excellent visibility, enhancing the diving experience.

What Do Divers Say About This Site?

Positive Feedback

• Vibrant Marine Life: Many divers appreciate the rich biodiversity at Fingers Reef. They report seeing a variety of fish, corals, and other marine creatures, which enhances the overall diving experience. The colorful tropical fish and the presence of turtles and rays are frequently mentioned as highlights.
• Experienced Dive Operators: Reviews often commend dive shops like Lost Reef Adventures for their knowledgeable and safety-focused staff. Divers have noted that the crew is attentive and ensures that all participants feel comfortable and safe during their dives.
• Good Conditions: Divers frequently mention favorable diving conditions at Fingers Reef, including clear waters and manageable currents, which contribute to enjoyable dive experiences. The shallow depths allow for longer dives, making it easier for divers to explore the reef thoroughly.

Constructive Criticism

• Mixed Reviews on Specific Operations: While many divers praise certain dive operators, there are also mixed reviews about others. Some divers have expressed dissatisfaction with their experiences due to issues like overcrowding on boats or lack of personal attention from guides, which can detract from the overall experience.
• Equipment and Facilities: Some reviews indicate that while the dive boats are functional, they may show signs of age. However, divers often emphasize that the quality of the staff and the diving experience outweigh these minor inconveniences

Key Information

Highlights of Diving This Site?

Unique Coral Formations

Fingers Reef is named for its distinctive “fingers” of coral that extend into the ocean, creating a visually stunning underwater landscape. This formation not only provides a beautiful backdrop but also creates various habitats for marine life, enhancing biodiversity.

Rich Marine Life

• Diverse Fish Species: Divers can expect to see schools of colorful tropical fish, including clownfish, angelfish, and snapper. The abundance of marine life makes it a photographer’s paradise, especially for those interested in macro photography, with opportunities to capture images of camouflaged critters like scorpionfish and nudibranchs.
• Larger Residents: The reef is frequented by larger marine animals such as sea turtles and nurse sharks, adding excitement to the dive experience. Sightings of manta rays are also possible, offering a thrilling encounter with these graceful creatures.

Accessibility and Conditions

Fingers Reef is relatively shallow, with depths ranging from 10 to 40 feet, making it accessible for both novice and experienced divers. This depth allows for longer dive times and excellent visibility, which enhances the overall diving experience. The calm waters typical of the area provide a comfortable environment for exploration.

Guided Tours and Support

Many dive operators offer guided tours to Fingers Reef, ensuring that divers have a safe and enjoyable experience. These tours often include personalized attention due to small group sizes, allowing divers to explore at their own pace while receiving expert guidance from experienced instructors.

Overall Experience

Diving at Fingers Reef is often described as unforgettable due to its combination of stunning scenery, rich marine biodiversity, and the professionalism of dive operators. The site is particularly praised for its welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for divers looking to enjoy the beauty of the underwater world in Key West.

Iconic Spots At This Site

1. Coral Fingers

• Description: The reef is characterized by its unique coral formations that resemble fingers extending into the ocean. These structures create a variety of habitats, supporting a diverse array of marine life.
• Highlights: Divers often encounter vibrant coral gardens filled with colorful fish, making it a prime location for underwater photography.

2. The Arch

• Description: An 8-foot-tall natural coral bridge located within the reef.
• Highlights: This picturesque spot is perfect for underwater portraits and provides a stunning backdrop for divers looking to capture memorable moments.

3. The Wreck of the Amesbury

• Description: Located about 5 miles west of Key West, this former naval destroyer escort is broken into two sections and lies in about 25 feet of water.
• Highlights: As part of the Florida Keys Shipwreck Trail, this shallow wreck dive allows divers to explore the remnants of the ship while observing marine life that has made it their home.

4. Coffins Patch

• Description: Known for its spooky name, Coffins Patch features depths ranging from 10 to 30 feet and is marked with mooring buoys.
• Highlights: This site is famous for its excellent visibility and abundant tropical fish species, including angelfish and butterfly fish, swimming among beautiful coral formations.

5. Western Dry Rocks

• Description: Located near Key West, this site is celebrated for its stunning coral formations and diverse marine life.
• Highlights: Divers can expect to see schools of grunts and snappers among the corals, making it a vibrant spot for exploration.

6. Looe Key

• Description: Although not directly part of Fingers Reef, Looe Key is a nearby spur-and-groove reef formation known for its incredible biodiversity.
• Highlights: It features some of the greatest diversity of fish species in the Keys and is fully protected from fishing activities, ensuring a thriving ecosystem.

Environmental Conservation Efforts at Fingers Reef

Reef Relief Organization

Reef Relief is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving coral reef ecosystems in Key West. Their efforts include:

• Education and Outreach: Raising public awareness about the importance of coral reefs and the threats they face through workshops and educational programs.
• Advocacy: Supporting sustainable fishing practices and advocating for marine protected areas.
• Hands-on Conservation: Organizing coral restoration projects and beach cleanups with volunteers.

Mission: Iconic Reefs

NOAA and partners have developed a large-scale coral restoration project called Mission: Iconic Reefs:

• Scope: Aims to restore seven ecologically and culturally significant reef sites in the Florida Keys.
• Iconic Reef Guardians Program: Allows divers and snorkelers to contribute to restoration efforts through guided experiences with Blue Star Dive operators.
• Restoration Approach: Includes site preparation, phased coral planting, and ongoing monitoring and maintenance.

Coral Restoration Foundation

Based in Key Largo, this organization is making significant strides in coral reef restoration:

• Coral Nurseries: Growing endangered species of coral for transplantation.
• Outplanting Success: Nursery-grown corals have been observed spawning in the wild, a major milestone for restoration efforts.
• Scale of Impact: As of March 2023, they had restored over 35,000 square meters of reef in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

Maximizing Your Diving Experience at Fingers Reef

Planning Your Dive

• Research the Site: Fingers Reef is characterized by sandy alleys between long coral pinnacles, organized like fingers of a hand. Understanding this layout will help you navigate more effectively underwater.
• Check Conditions: The reef often offers excellent visibility, sometimes reaching up to 30 meters. Plan your dive when conditions are optimal for the best experience.

Diving Techniques

• Follow the “Fingers”: Navigate the reef by following each sand “finger” one by one, making U-turns at the end. This method ensures you cover the entire site systematically.
• Practice Buoyancy Control: Proper buoyancy is crucial for protecting the delicate coral formations and conserving energy during your dive.

Safety Considerations

• Dive with a Buddy: Always dive with a partner for safety, even though there may not be a Divemaster accompanying you during the dive.
• Monitor Air Supply: Regularly check your pressure gauge and plan your dive to allow for a safe ascent and safety stop.
• Carry Safety Equipment: Bring essential items like a dive knife, whistle, and flashlight for emergencies.

Exploring Marine Life

• Observe Diverse Species: Look out for schools of blue-striped grunt, elkhorn coral, giant brain coral, and staghorn coral.
• Respect Marine Life: Maintain a safe distance from marine creatures and avoid touching or disturbing the coral.

Enhancing Your Experience

• Consider a Guide: While not standard, hiring a private guide can enhance your experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the site5.
• Capture Memories: Bring an underwater camera to document the vibrant marine life and unique coral formations.
• Participate in Conservation: Consider joining local conservation efforts or choosing eco-friendly dive operators to contribute to reef preservation.

Capturing Memories at Fingers Reef: Photography Tips

Essential Gear

• Underwater Camera: Invest in a good quality underwater camera or a waterproof housing for your existing camera. Compact cameras with manual settings are often recommended for underwater photography.
• Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing expansive reef scenes and schools of fish, allowing you to include more of the environment in your shots.
• Strobe or Flash: Consider using an external strobe or flash to illuminate subjects and reduce backscatter, especially in deeper waters where light diminishes.

Photography Techniques

• Use Natural Light: Since Fingers Reef is relatively shallow, take advantage of natural sunlight. Shoot during midday when the sun is highest for the best illumination.
• Get Close: Water absorbs light, so getting as close as possible to your subject will improve visibility and color saturation in your photos.
• Focus on Composition: Use the rule of thirds to create balanced compositions. Include interesting foreground elements like coral formations or marine life to add depth to your images.

Settings and Adjustments

• Manual Mode: If your camera allows, use manual mode to adjust settings such as ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. A higher ISO may be necessary for low-light conditions, but be cautious of noise.
• White Balance: Adjust the white balance to compensate for the blue hues of underwater environments. Many cameras have an underwater setting that can help with this.

Capturing Marine Life

• Patience is Key: Wait for marine life to come into your frame rather than chasing them. This can lead to more natural and engaging shots.
• Avoid Disturbing Wildlife: Respect marine life by maintaining a safe distance. Avoid touching or disturbing coral and animals, as this can harm their habitat.

Post-Dive Considerations

• Editing Software: Use photo editing software to enhance colors and contrast after your dive. Adjusting brightness and saturation can help bring out the vibrant colors typical of coral reefs.
• Share Responsibly: When sharing your photos, consider including information about conservation efforts and responsible diving practices to raise awareness about protecting these ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions