Diving at Christ of the Abyss combines spiritual significance with natural beauty, making it a cherished destination for divers visiting Key Largo. The combination of historical context, diverse marine life, and accessibility ensures that it remains one of Florida’s premier dive sites.

Article at a Glance

• Iconic Underwater Statue: The Christ of the Abyss is a 9-foot bronze statue located in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo, Florida, symbolizing peace and spirituality.
• Diving Depth: The statue is situated at approximately 25 feet (8-10 meters) deep, making it accessible for both beginners and advanced divers.
• Marine Biodiversity: The surrounding area is rich in marine life, including colorful fish, rays, sea turtles, and various coral species.
• Best Diving Conditions: Spring and fall are ideal for diving due to better visibility and milder weather; early morning dives are recommended for fewer crowds.
• Photography Opportunities: The site offers excellent conditions for underwater photography, particularly with wide-angle lenses to capture the statue and vibrant marine life.
• Guided Tours Available: Local dive operators provide guided tours suitable for all skill levels, including snorkeling options for those not diving.
• Environmental Protection: The site is part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, with ongoing conservation efforts to protect the coral reefs and marine ecosystem.

Christ of the Abyss Key Largo

The Christ of the Abyss statue is an iconic underwater attraction located off the coast of Key Largo, Florida. Here are some key details about this famous submerged sculpture:

Location and History

The statue is situated in the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, approximately six miles northeast of Key Largo. It was placed in its current location on August 25, 1965, in about 25 feet of water near Key Largo Dry Rocks reef.This 9-foot tall bronze statue is the third cast made from the original mold created by Italian sculptor Guido Galletti. The original statue, “Il Cristo degli Abissi,” was placed in the Mediterranean Sea off Italy in 1954.

Description and Significance

The statue depicts Christ with his arms raised toward the surface in a pose offering peace. It weighs around 4,000 pounds and stands on a concrete base weighing approximately 20,000 pounds.Christ of the Abyss has become one of the most famous underwater attractions in Key Largo, drawing numerous divers and snorkelers. It’s considered one of the most visited underwater sites globally.

Viewing the Statue

While SCUBA divers get the best views, the top of the statue is visible to snorkelers as it sits about 8-10 feet below the surface. The surrounding area features shallow coral formations and sand, offering opportunities to see various marine life including spotted eagle rays, southern stingrays, and diverse fish species.

Accessibility

To visit the Christ of the Abyss statue, you’ll need to join a boat tour. These can be arranged through John Pennekamp State Park or various private dive operators in Key Largo. The site is suitable for both snorkelers and divers, though snorkelers will view the statue from above rather than up close.

What Marine Life Can I Expect To See?

Fish Species

• Parrotfish (various species including midnight, blue, rainbow, striped, princess, queen)
• Wrasses (including Spanish Hogfish)
• Damselfish (such as Sergeant Major, Cocoa Damsel, and Bicolored Damsel)
• Snappers and grunts
• Barracudas
• Angelfish (gray, French, and Queen)
• Groupers (various species)
• Hogfish
• Butterflyfish
• Trumpetfish
• Porcupinefish
• Boxfish and trunkfish

Larger Marine Animals

• Sea turtles (green, loggerhead, hawksbill, and occasionally leatherbacks and Ridley’s)
• Sharks (nurse, Caribbean reef, and occasionally bull, hammerhead, and tiger)
• Rays (southern stingrays, spotted eagle rays, and occasionally manta rays)
• Moray eels (green, spotted, goldentail, chain, and others)
• Goliath grouper

Invertebrates and Other Sea Life

• Lobsters and crabs
• Sea cucumbers, sea urchins, and brittle stars
• Various coral species (brain coral, mountainous star coral, elkhorn coral)
• Sea fans and other soft corals
• Sponges
• Jellyfish and anemones

Notable Locations and Sightings

• Molasses Reef: Known for large schools of grunts, horse-eye jacks, schooling barracuda, permit, and eagle rays
• Deep Molasses: Home to reef butterflyfish, large queen and blue angelfish, and occasional rare sightings like manta rays or blanket octopus

What Do Divers Say About This Site?

Overall Impressions

• Iconic Attraction: Many divers consider the Christ of the Abyss to be one of the most famous underwater sites globally, often describing it as a must-see for anyone diving in the Florida Keys. The statue’s serene pose and historical significance resonate with visitors, making it a memorable dive site.
• Visibility: The statue is located approximately 25 feet underwater, with its top visible at about 8 to 10 feet below the surface. This makes it accessible to both snorkelers and divers, although divers report better views and opportunities for photographs.

Marine Life Encounters

• Diverse Ecosystem: Divers frequently mention the variety of marine life around the statue, including colorful fish such as parrotfish, angelfish, and groupers, as well as rays and barracudas. The area is known for its vibrant coral formations, which enhance the diving experience.
• Common Sightings: Visitors often report seeing spotted eagle rays and southern stingrays in the sandy areas surrounding the statue. The abundance of fish adds to the allure of the dive site, making it not just about the statue but also about exploring a lively reef ecosystem.

Conditions and Accessibility

• Crowded but Worth It: While some reviews note that the site can become crowded due to its popularity, many divers feel that this does not detract significantly from their experience. They appreciate that multiple dive operators frequent the site, providing various options for exploring.
• Good for All Skill Levels: The relatively shallow depth makes it suitable for divers of all levels, including beginners. Many dive shops offer tours that cater to both experienced divers and those new to scuba diving or snorkeling.

Environmental Concerns

• Coral Health: Some divers have expressed concerns about coral health due to heavy visitation. Reports indicate that while the coral is still in relatively good condition, signs of wear are evident. This has led some divers to recommend exploring less-trafficked sites nearby for a more pristine experience.

Key Information

Highlights of Diving This Site?

• Statue Overview: The Christ of the Abyss is a striking 9-foot-tall bronze statue situated at a depth of about 25 feet, mounted on a three-tiered concrete pedestal. It stands vigil over the surrounding reef, creating a poignant focal point for divers and snorkelers alike.
• Diverse Marine Life: The area around the statue is teeming with marine life. Divers often encounter species such as:
  • Spotted Eagle Rays and Southern Stingrays near sandy areas.
  • Various colorful fish including parrotfish, angelfish, and groupers.
  • Occasional sightings of larger species like nurse sharks and barracudas.
• Coral Formations: The site features typical spur and groove formations, with both hard and soft corals. Divers can explore the vibrant underwater topography, which includes brain corals and sea rods14.

Accessibility and Conditions

• Suitable for All Levels: The site is accessible to divers of all skill levels, making it a popular choice for beginners and experienced divers alike. The shallow depth allows for easy entry and exit from the water.
• Visibility: Generally, visibility at this site is good, although it can vary depending on weather conditions and water clarity. Divers often report clear waters that enhance the experience of viewing the statue and surrounding marine life.

Unique Experiences

• Underwater Weddings: The Christ of the Abyss has become a popular location for underwater weddings, adding a unique twist to the diving experience. Many couples choose to exchange vows in front of the statue, making it a memorable spot for both participants and witnesses.
• Photographic Opportunities: The statue provides an excellent backdrop for underwater photography. Divers frequently capture stunning images alongside the statue, especially with the vibrant marine life in the background.

Environmental Considerations

• Impact of Tourism: While the site is heavily visited, some divers have noted signs of wear on the coral due to high traffic. This has led to discussions about conservation efforts to protect this beautiful underwater environment.

Iconic Spots At This Site

Christ of the Abyss Statue

• Description: This 9-foot-tall bronze statue of Jesus Christ is mounted on a concrete base in approximately 25 feet of water. It is a replica of the original statue located in Italy and serves as a poignant symbol of peace and spirituality.
• Significance: The statue is not only a diving attraction but also a cultural landmark, making it a must-see for visitors to Key Largo. Many divers and snorkelers come specifically to pay their respects and capture photographs with this iconic figure.

2. Surrounding Marine Life

• Biodiversity: The area around the statue is rich in marine life, including colorful tropical fish, rays, and occasionally sea turtles. Divers often report encounters with barracudas and other species that thrive in this vibrant ecosystem.
• Coral Formations: The underwater topography includes both hard and soft corals, contributing to the overall beauty of the dive site. However, some areas show signs of wear due to heavy visitation.

3. Dry Rocks Reef

• Location: The Christ of the Abyss is located within the Dry Rocks area, which features spur-and-groove formations typical of coral reefs. This geological structure enhances marine biodiversity and provides excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
• Accessibility: The site is accessible by boat tours from Key Largo, allowing visitors to explore multiple spots in one trip.

4. Underwater Weddings

• Unique Experience: The Christ of the Abyss has become a popular venue for underwater weddings. Many couples choose to exchange vows in front of the statue, adding a unique element to their diving experience.

5. Nearby Dive Sites

• Molasses Reef: Just a short distance away, this reef is known for its clear waters and abundant marine life, making it another highlight for divers visiting the area.
• The Elbow: This site features shipwrecks and vibrant coral formations, providing additional exploration opportunities for those diving in Key Largo.

Environmental Conservation Efforts at Christ of the Abyss

1. Protected Area Status: The Christ of the Abyss statue is located within John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. This designation provides a level of protection and management for the site and surrounding marine ecosystem.
2. Coral Reef Protection: The statue is situated on a patch reef that is part of the Florida Reef Tract, the third-largest barrier reef system in the world3. Conservation efforts focus on protecting these vital coral reef ecosystems.
3. Awareness of Reef Health: There’s recognition that the site shows signs of wear due to heavy visitation. This awareness has likely led to increased efforts to manage visitor impact and promote responsible diving practices.
4. Coral Disease Response: The Florida Reef Tract is currently experiencing a historic disease event affecting stony corals. While not specific to the Christ of the Abyss site, broader conservation efforts are underway to address this threat, including coral rescue and nursery programs.
5. Sponge Restoration: Efforts are being made to restore sponge populations in the Florida Keys, which play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Sponge nurseries support restoration efforts following die-offs caused by various environmental factors.
6. Fish and Wildlife Protection: The site is part of a larger ecosystem that supports diverse marine life. Conservation efforts aim to protect various species, including those that form spawning aggregations and are vulnerable to exploitation.
7. Water Quality Management: There’s an emphasis on maintaining and improving water quality, which is crucial for the health of coral reefs and associated marine life.
8. Climate Change Mitigation: While not specific to this site, there are broader efforts to address the impacts of climate change on coral reefs, including dealing with coral bleaching events and ocean acidification.
9. Education and Awareness: The popularity of the site provides an opportunity for educating visitors about marine conservation and the importance of protecting coral reef ecosystems.

Maximizing Your Diving Experience at Christ of the Abyss

Plan Your Dive

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning dives often offer the best visibility and fewer crowds.
• Depth: The statue is at about 25 feet, making it accessible for divers of all levels.
• Duration: Plan for a 30-45 minute dive to fully explore the statue and surrounding reef.

Photography Tips

• Wide-Angle Lens: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the entire statue and its surroundings.
• Lighting: Consider using artificial lighting to bring out the colors of the marine life and the statue’s details.
• Positioning: For the best shots, position yourself slightly below the statue looking up.

Explore the Surroundings

• Coral Formations: Take time to examine the spur and groove formations and brain corals around the statue.
• Marine Life: Look for parrotfish, angelfish, and rays in the sandy areas near the statue.
• Sea Rods and Whips: These soft corals are abundant on the reef’s outer edges.

Respect the Environment

• No-Touch Policy: Avoid touching the statue or any marine life to preserve the site.
• Buoyancy Control: Practice good buoyancy to avoid damaging the reef or stirring up sediment.
• Leave No Trace: Ensure you don’t leave any trash or disturb the natural environment.

Enhance Your Experience

• Learn the History: Familiarize yourself with the statue’s history before diving for a more meaningful experience.
• Participate in Conservation: Consider joining local reef clean-up efforts or supporting marine conservation initiatives.
• Night Diving: If available, a night dive at this site can offer a unique perspective on the statue and marine life.

Capturing Memories at Christ of the Abyss: Photography Tips

Equipment Recommendations

• Underwater Camera: Use a dedicated underwater camera or a waterproof housing for your DSLR or mirrorless camera. This will protect your gear and allow you to capture high-quality images.
• Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the entire statue along with the surrounding marine life and coral formations. This lens will also help in low-light conditions often found underwater.
• Strobe or Flash: Consider using an external strobe or flash to illuminate the subject, especially in deeper waters where natural light may be insufficient.

Composition Tips

• Positioning: When photographing the statue, try different angles. Position yourself slightly below the statue looking up to capture its grandeur against the backdrop of the water surface.
• Foreground Interest: Include elements of the reef or marine life in the foreground to add depth to your photos. This can create a more dynamic composition.
• Rule of Thirds: Use the rule of thirds to position the statue off-center, which can create a more visually appealing image.

Lighting Considerations

• Natural Light: The best time for underwater photography is during midday when sunlight penetrates the water most effectively. Aim for a dive during this time for optimal lighting conditions.
• Avoid Backlighting: Try to avoid shooting directly into bright light sources, as this can create glare and reduce visibility in your images.

Capturing Marine Life

• Patience: Marine life can be unpredictable. Be patient and wait for fish or other creatures to come into your frame naturally.
• Focus on Movement: Capture fish swimming around the statue or interacting with their environment. This adds life and context to your photos.

Post-Dive Considerations

• Review and Edit: After your dive, review your photos and perform any necessary edits. Adjusting brightness, contrast, and color balance can enhance your images significantly.
• Share Your Experience: Consider sharing your photos on social media or diving forums to inspire others and contribute to the diving community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Largo Dive Sites 

• Molasses Reef
• The Winch Hole
• Eagle Ray Alley
• French Reef
• Pickles Reef
• Key Largo Dry Rocks
• Grecian Rocks
• Carysfort Reef
• Elbow Reef
• North Dry Rocks
• North North Dry Rocks
• Snapper Ledge
• Christ of the Abyss Statue
• Watsons Reef
• Sombrero Reef
• Western Dry Rocks