Private SCUBA Charter to John Pennekamp Reefs in Key Largo — Two-Tank Small-Group Dive
Board a private dive boat for a two-tank SCUBA charter to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Small groups (up to eight) get more wildlife encounters and longer bottom time across classic Key Largo sites.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring certification and logbook
You must present a recognized SCUBA certification card and recent dive log entries (within six months) at check-in.
Hydrate and pre-hydrate
Drink fluids before boarding and avoid heavy meals immediately before diving to reduce nausea and decompression risk.
Practice neutral buoyancy
Unguided dives mean your buoyancy protects the reef — avoid fin kicks near corals and use a SMB for surface signaling.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply mineral-based sunscreen before joining the boat and reapply to exposed areas with face shields or rashguards to protect marine life.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Dry Rocks (site of the Christ of the Abyss statue) for shallow photo ops
- •Spiegel Grove wreck for experienced divers seeking an expansive artificial reef
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtle
- •Nurse shark
Conservation Note
The park enforces no-anchoring zones and promotes reef-safe sunscreen; minimize contact and report coral disease or bleaching to rangers.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was established in the 1960s as Florida’s first undersea park to protect living coral communities.
Photographer's Notes
- • Along the boat’s downline before entry
- • Above bommies and coral ledges
- • Near the Christ of the Abyss at Dry Rocks
What to Bring
Personal mask and snorkelEssential
Familiar equipment ensures a good seal and clearer vision during your dives.
Dive computerEssential
Tracks depth and no-deco limits across both tanks—critical for unguided dives.
Thin wetsuit or rashguard (3mm–5mm)Essential
Provides thermal protection and reef abrasion resistance in cooler months or long dives.
Underwater camera or action housing
Wide-angle gear captures coral bommies and schooling fish with natural color when paired with a strobe.
Common Questions
Do I need to be certified to join this charter?
Yes. All divers must present a recognized SCUBA certification card and show recent dives in a logbook (within six months).
Are tanks, weights and gear included?
The price includes tanks, weights and gear if required, but you may bring personal equipment for comfort and fit.
How deep are the typical dives?
Most sites visited range between 30–60 feet (9–18 m), though exact depth depends on the chosen reef site and conditions.
Is there a guide on the private charter?
These charters are unguided tours; a small group gives you flexibility, but you must follow buddy procedures and navigation skills.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure; trips may be canceled for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Where do I meet for check-in?
Meet at the Pilot House Marina dock behind the boat storage racks; check-in is 30 minutes prior and parking is nearby.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Key Largo, Florida
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; comfortable swimming and ability to carry/deploy equipment and perform buddy-assisted procedures
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