Site Description: The 18th Century Mock Spanish Shipwreck is easily sighted by its historical marker buoy that reads, “Spanish Shipwreck 1715”. The site contains 15 submerged cannons ranging from 7’ to 9’ feet in length and a 10’9” anchor, all of which remain intact and in good condition.
Location: Approximately 130 feet offshore of Cannon Beach within John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo, Florida.
Depth: 5’ to 7’ with a man-made cutout directly adjacent to the site with a depth of 17’ to 20’
Visibility: Varies from 2’ to 15’, depending on environmental conditions, boat traffic, and swimming traffic.
Marine Life: Common species include: Sergeant Major, French Angelfish, Mahogany Snapper, Rainbow Parrotfish, Mangrove Snapper, Bluestriped Grunt, Great Barracuda, Caribbean Spiny Lobster, Lesser Starlet Coral, and Mermaid’s Wineglass.
Diver Level: No dive experience is needed for the Mock Shipwreck; it is shallow enough for snorkeling.
Access: The site is accessible by shore. For a small entry fee, park guests receive all-day access to the beach.
Comments: Small anodes on cannons may pose as hazards to swimmers.