Divers appreciate Ten-Fathom Ledge for its spectacular marine life and underwater scenery. It is often recommended as a must-visit site in Key West for those with the requisite experience. Many divers suggest going during weekdays to avoid crowds and enhance the diving experience.

Article at a Glance

• Location: Situated approximately 11 miles southwest of Key West, Florida, Ten-Fathom Ledge is a premier dive site known for its vibrant marine life and unique underwater features.
• Depth Range: The site offers an average depth of 40 feet, with depths ranging from 27 to 115 feet, accommodating both intermediate and advanced divers.
• Notable Features: Highlights include the wreck of the tugboat “All-Alone” at 90 feet, dramatic caves, and overhangs that provide shelter for various marine species.
• Visibility: Divers can enjoy excellent visibility, typically ranging from 50 to 100 feet, making it ideal for underwater photography and marine exploration.
• Marine Life: The area is rich in biodiversity, featuring large groupers, barracudas, tarpon, sharks, and colorful reef fish, along with spiny lobsters and other invertebrates.
• Current Conditions: Strong currents can be present due to the Gulf Stream’s influence, requiring divers to have good buoyancy control and experience.
• Best Time to Dive: The optimal diving season is from June to November, when water temperatures are warm and marine activity is high.

Ten-Fathom Ledge Key West

Ten-Fathom Ledge is a popular and intriguing dive site located near Key West, Florida. Here’s what you need to know about diving this location:

Location and Characteristics

Ten-Fathom Ledge is situated approximately 11 miles southwest of Key West. The site is not marked by a buoy, so diving here typically requires going with an experienced charter. The ledge begins at a depth of 27 feet and extends to a wall that drops down to 115 feet.

Marine Life and Features

The dive site is known for its rich biodiversity and unique underwater topography:

• Abundant Sea Life: The area is home to a variety of marine species, including large sharks, rays, huge tarpon, barracuda, and big snappers. Divers may also encounter schools of blue tang, parrotfish, and numerous grunts.
• Coral Formations: The ledge features impressive coral growth, including huge barrel sponges and rare black coral trees.
• Caves and Overhangs: Ten-Fathom Ledge is famous for its unusual coral caves and dramatic overhangs, which provide shelter for lobsters and grouper.

Notable Attractions

1. All-Alone Wreck: At a depth of 90 feet lies the wreck of a 75-foot tugboat called “All-Alone”. The tug’s hull is parted, creating a habitat for various sea creatures.
2. Kedge Ledge: In the shallower area, there’s a small patch reef called Kedge Ledge, featuring 18th-century anchors encrusted in coral.

Diving Conditions

• Visibility: The site’s proximity to the Gulf Stream results in clear waters, offering excellent visibility and great opportunities for underwater photography.
• Current: The area is subject to strong currents, which contribute to the rich marine life but also make it more challenging for divers.
• Difficulty: Due to its depth and potential for strong currents, Ten-Fathom Ledge is considered an intermediate to advanced dive site.

Best Practices

• Go with an experienced charter, as the site is not marked and can be challenging to locate.
• Bring a camera to capture the vibrant marine life and clear waters.
• Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds, as the site is quite popular.
• If you have the appropriate license, you may be able to catch lobsters here.

What Marine Life Can I Expect To See?

Fish Species

• Large groupers
• Barracudas
• Snooks
• Huge tarpon
• Big snappers
• Schools of blue tang
• Parrotfish
• Numerous grunts
• Porcupine fish

Larger Marine Animals

• Sharks (various species)
• Eagle rays
• Manta rays
• Stingrays (often seen resting on the seafloor in deeper areas)

Crustaceans and Other Invertebrates

• Spiny lobsters
• Various colorful tropical fish species

Coral and Sponges

• Giant barrel sponges (some larger than a diver)
• Rare black coral trees
• Diverse coral formations, varying between shallow and deep areas

Notable Features

1. The site is known for its caves and dramatic overhangs, which provide shelter for lobsters and grouper.
2. At different depths, you’ll encounter different species of marine life. The coral on the sea floor differs from that in shallower sections.
3. The All-Alone wreck, a 75-foot tugboat resting at 90 feet, serves as a habitat for larger species like groupers, barracudas, and snooks.
4. The strong current from the nearby Gulf Stream contributes to the rich biodiversity but also makes for more challenging diving conditions.

What Do Divers Say About This Site?

Positive Aspects

• Abundant Marine Life: Divers frequently mention the incredible variety of marine species encountered, including large sharks, rays, tarpon, barracuda, and various types of snappers. The area is known for its vibrant ecosystem, which includes schools of blue tang and parrotfish, as well as lobsters hiding in the caves and crevices.
• Unique Features: The ledge is characterized by dramatic underwater topography, including caves and overhangs that provide shelter for marine life. Many divers appreciate exploring these features, along with the wreck of the tugboat “All Alone,” which adds an element of adventure to their dives.
• Visibility and Conditions: While visibility can vary, divers often report good conditions, typically around 50 to 100 feet. The clear waters enhance the experience, making it ideal for underwater photography.

Challenges

• Strong Currents: Some divers caution that the site can experience strong currents, which may pose challenges, particularly for less experienced divers. This aspect makes it more suitable for intermediate to advanced divers who are comfortable managing such conditions.
• Location and Accessibility: Ten-Fathom Ledge is not marked with a buoy, meaning divers need to go with an experienced charter to access it. This can be a drawback for those looking for independent diving opportunities.

Key Information

Highlights of Diving This Site?

Unique Underwater Features

• Dramatic Topography: The site includes outcroppings, ledges, and caverns, with a substantial drop-off where the coral reef wall descends from about 50 feet to depths of 115 feet. This variety in depth allows divers to explore different marine environments.
• The All-Alone Wreck: A significant attraction at Ten-Fathom Ledge is the wreck of the tugboat “All-Alone,” which rests at 90 feet. The wreck’s hull is split, creating a habitat for large marine life such as barracuda, grouper, and snook. This site is particularly popular for advanced divers looking to explore deeper waters.

Rich Marine Life

• Abundant Species: Divers frequently encounter a wide range of marine species, including large groupers, tarpon, eagle rays, and various types of sharks. The area’s biodiversity makes it an exciting dive location for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Clear Visibility: Thanks to the nearby Gulf Stream, visibility at Ten-Fathom Ledge is often excellent, typically ranging from 50 to 100 feet. This clarity enhances the diving experience and provides fantastic opportunities for underwater photography.

Accessibility and Conditions

• Intermediate-Friendly: While the All-Alone wreck is suited for advanced divers due to its depth, the shallower areas of Ten-Fathom Ledge are accessible to intermediate divers. This makes it a versatile site suitable for groups with varying skill levels.
• Strong Currents: The site can experience strong currents due to its location near the Gulf Stream. While this can pose challenges for some divers, it also contributes to the rich marine life and clear waters that divers appreciate.

Photography Opportunities

• Vibrant Ecosystem: The combination of clear waters, colorful corals, and diverse marine life makes Ten-Fathom Ledge an excellent location for underwater photography. Divers are encouraged to bring cameras to capture the stunning visuals of their dives.

Iconic Spots At This Site

1. The All-Alone Wreck

• Description: This 75-foot tugboat rests at a depth of 90 feet and is a significant draw for divers. The wreck’s hull is split, creating an intriguing environment for marine life.
• Marine Life: It serves as a habitat for barracuda, grouper, snook, and other large fish, making it a popular site for underwater photography and exploration.
• Diving Level: Considered an intermediate to advanced dive due to its depth, it offers a perfect blend of challenge and beauty.

2. Dramatic Caves and Overhangs

• Description: The ledge features stunning underwater caves and overhangs that provide shelter for various species, including lobsters and grouper.
• Marine Life: These formations attract a variety of marine creatures, offering divers opportunities to observe them in their natural habitats.

3. Kedge Ledge

• Description: This shallower area of Ten-Fathom Ledge includes a small patch reef that is home to historical artifacts like 18th-century anchors encrusted in coral.
• Diving Level: Kedge Ledge is accessible to less experienced divers, providing a beautiful environment without the depth challenges of the All-Alone wreck.

4. Rich Biodiversity

• Description: The site is known for its rich marine ecosystem, with visibility often exceeding 50 feet due to the Gulf Stream’s influence.
• Marine Life: Divers can expect to see large schools of blue tang, parrotfish, tarpon, sharks, and various reef fish in addition to the larger species around the wreck.

5. Strong Currents

• Description: While the currents can make diving more challenging, they also contribute to the nutrient-rich waters that support diverse marine life.
• Diving Experience: Experienced divers appreciate the dynamic conditions that enhance the overall diving experience at Ten-Fathom Ledge.

Environmental Conservation Efforts at Ten-Fathom Ledge

Coral Reef Restoration Initiatives

1. Mission: Iconic Reefs:
   • This NOAA-led initiative aims to restore seven significant reef sites within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, addressing the dramatic decline of coral reefs in the region, where nearly 90% of live corals have been lost over the past 40 years. The project emphasizes restoring diverse, reef-building corals and enhancing ecosystem resilience against climate change and other stressors.
2. Removal of Invasive Species:
   • Efforts include removing invasive species that compete with corals for space and resources. This action is crucial for allowing native coral species to thrive and recover in their natural habitats.
3. Coral Propagation:
   • Grants have been awarded to support coral propagation efforts, which involve growing coral fragments in nurseries before transplanting them back onto reefs. This method helps increase coral cover and diversity, essential for a healthy reef ecosystem.
4. Monitoring and Maintenance:
   • Continuous monitoring of coral health and habitat conditions is part of the restoration strategy. This includes routine checks for marine debris, predators that threaten coral health, and reattachment of any dislodged corals.

Special Use Areas

• Temporary Restrictions:
  • NOAA has established special use areas within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to protect sensitive habitats from potential damage caused by activities such as anchoring and fishing. These areas are designated for restoration activities only, ensuring that conservation efforts can proceed without interference.

Community Involvement and Education

• Public Engagement:
  • Conservation efforts also focus on community involvement through education and outreach programs that promote ocean stewardship. Engaging local communities helps foster a sense of responsibility towards preserving marine ecosystems.

Maximizing Your Diving Experience at Ten-Fathom Ledge

1. Know the Dive Site

• Depth and Features: Ten-Fathom Ledge features a substantial drop-off from about 50 feet to depths of 115 feet, with an average depth of around 40 feet. Familiarize yourself with the layout, including caves, ledges, and the All-Alone wreck located at 90 feet. This knowledge helps in planning your dive and ensuring safety.
• Visibility Conditions: Thanks to the nearby Gulf Stream, visibility is generally excellent, often ranging from 50 to 100 feet. Clear waters provide great opportunities for underwater photography, so bring a camera to capture the vibrant marine life.

2. Choose Your Dive Level Wisely

• Skill Level: If you’re not an advanced diver, consider sticking to shallower areas of Ten-Fathom Ledge. The All-Alone wreck is more suitable for intermediate to advanced divers due to its depth and potential currents.
• Plan Your Dive: Assess the conditions on the day of your dive. Strong currents can be present; avoid swimming against them by planning your route accordingly.

3. Marine Life Encounters

• Diverse Species: Expect to see a variety of marine life, including large groupers, barracudas, snooks, spiny lobsters, and possibly sharks and eagle rays. The rich biodiversity makes for an exciting diving experience.
• Respect Marine Life: Move slowly and deliberately while diving to avoid startling fish. This approach increases your chances of close encounters with marine creatures without scaring them away.

4. Equipment Preparation

• Check Your Gear: Ensure that all equipment is in good working condition before your dive. Properly fitting gear will enhance comfort and performance underwater.
• Buoyancy Control: Practice good buoyancy control by adjusting your weights as needed. This will help you conserve energy and enjoy the dive more fully.

5. Photography Tips

• Capture the Moment: With excellent visibility and a wealth of marine life, Ten-Fathom Ledge is ideal for underwater photography. Move slowly when taking pictures to avoid disturbing the marine environment or losing focus on your subjects.

6. Post-Dive Reflection

• Share Experiences: After your dive, take time to reflect on what you saw and experienced. Sharing stories with fellow divers can enhance your overall enjoyment and provide valuable insights for future dives.

Capturing Memories at Ten-Fathom Ledge: Photography Tips

1. Choose the Right Equipment

• Use an External Strobe: Built-in flashes are often ineffective underwater, leading to backscatter (light reflecting off particles in the water). An external strobe or two allows for better lighting and minimizes backscatter by positioning them away from your lens.
• Camera Settings: If your camera allows manual settings, adjust for ambient light. For wide-angle shots, ensure your settings are optimized for depth and direction to capture the vibrant blues of the water effectively.

2. Master Your Buoyancy

• Good Buoyancy Control: Maintaining proper buoyancy is crucial for stability while shooting. This allows you to focus on composition without struggling to stay in position, which can lead to blurry images. Practice your buoyancy skills before diving to ensure you can hold your camera steady.

3. Plan Your Shots

• Fill the Frame: Move in slowly and get close to your subjects. The mantra “get close, then get closer” is essential for underwater photography. This approach helps capture details and creates more engaging images.
• Shoot Upwards: Whenever possible, shoot upwards or at eye level with your subject. This technique enhances lighting and allows you to frame subjects against a blue-water background, making them stand out more than if shot against a busy reef scene.

4. Take Advantage of Visibility

• Utilize Clear Waters: Ten-Fathom Ledge benefits from excellent visibility due to its proximity to the Gulf Stream, often exceeding 50 feet. This clarity is perfect for capturing vibrant corals and diverse marine life like eagle rays, spiny lobsters, and sharks.

5. Be Patient and Observant

• Wait for the Perfect Moment: Underwater photography often requires patience. Observe marine life behavior and wait for the right moment to capture dynamic actions or interactions between species.

6. Test Your Equipment

• Take Test Shots: Before diving deep, take a few test shots at shallower depths to ensure your settings are correct. Adjust as necessary based on lighting conditions and visibility.

7. Post-Dive Review

• Review Your Photos: After your dive, take time to review your images while they’re fresh in your mind. This reflection can help you identify what worked well and what could be improved for future dives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key West Dive Sites

• Western Sambo Reef Reserve
• Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary
• Sand Key
• Sand Key Light
• Ten-Fathom Ledge
• 9 Foot Stake
• Fingers Reef
• Kedge Ledge
• The Dry Tortugas
• Cottrell Reef
• Runway
• Sambo Reef
• Eastern Dry Rocks
• American Shoals  
• The Cayo Hueso Reef
• The Marquesas Keys