Dive Center
Key Largo, Florida
Wreck Trek Overview
Depth Range: 40 to 140 feet
Experience Level: Advanced to Expert
Sunk May 27, 2009
The USNS Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg is a 522 feet long former Missile Range Instrumentation Ship which was intentionally sunk on May 27th 2009 to create an artificial reef for divers and fishermen. She sits intact and upright at a depth of 140 ft seven miles off Key West. The superstructure begins at a depth of 40 ft.
Built in 1943, the Vandenberg had a long and varied career. In addition to her duty as a missile tracking ship, she also served as a World War II troop transport and even had a starring role in the 1999 movie "Virus."
Photos: W. Poelzer
Photos: W. Poelzer