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| MileMarker: | 90 |
| Location: | 6 miles East-Southeast of Windley Key |
| Markers: | |
| Depth Range: | 20 to 20 feet deep |
| Skill Level req.: | beginner |
| Risks/Warnings: | none |
| History | |
| El Capitan was a galleon-class Spanish ship. It was part of the 1733 treasure fleet heading for Spain from the New World. After the fleet left Havana harbor, a hurricane struck the ships, driving 21 galleons onto the reefs. Nearly the entire fleet was destroyed. Each ship left behind a large pile of ballast stones, timbers, and their treasure cargo. The colossal amount of treasure was salvaged first by the Spanish, and much later by American treasure hunters using sophisticated salvage equipment. Even today, divers can find coral-encrusted coins, pottery, and other ancient artifacts at this dive site, particularly after heavy storms. El Capitan has given up a large number of coins and artifacts to divers. It is said that much of the treasure from the Spanish ships yet remains submerged and available. |
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| Dive Description | |
| El Capitan is basically a large pile of rocks, with a few old timbers sticking out here and there. Coral head have overgrown the rock pile. Divers should remember to bring a rigid board such as a plastic writing pad with which to fan the sea bottom for coins. |
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| Divesite info by: Jonathan Brinkman | |
Divelog for El Capitan - Wreck
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| LOWER KEYS info (Key West - 7 Mi. bridge) |
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UPPER KEYS info (Islamorada - Key Largo) |
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