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WRECK · TECH
USS Vandenberg
A 522-ft Cold-War missile-tracking ship. Sunk 2009. Massive.
24°27′24″N · 81°51′24″W
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GO 75+ MARG 35–74 SKIP <35
Where to dive Vandenberg
Verified operators · No paid placementThe Hoyt S. Vandenberg is a 522 ft retired missile-tracking ship sunk seven miles south of Key West in 2009. She sits upright in 140 ft with the towering tracking dishes rising to 50 ft — the most striking silhouette of any artificial reef in the western Atlantic. The marine life arrived fast: goliath grouper, schooling barracuda, cobia, eagle rays.
Dive sites you'll actually want to do
Site notes from a PADI Divemaster who dives here
01
Tracking Dishes
50–60 ft
The most photographed feature in Florida wreck diving.
02
Bridge Deck
80–95 ft
Classic Vandenberg dive. Schools of barracuda.
03
Stern + Funnel
100–130 ft
Big structure for advanced divers. Big animals.
FAQ
Real answers to the questions divers actually ask about Vandenberg.
What certs do I need for the Vandenberg?
Advanced Open Water for the top tracking dishes (50–60 ft). Deep specialty for the main superstructure (80–100 ft). Tech / trimix for the bottom (130–140 ft).
How rough is the Vandenberg run from Key West?
Seven miles offshore in open water. The run is rougher than Key Largo dives — check seas before booking. Most operators run if seas are under 4 ft.
Is current strong on the Vandenberg?
Often. Gulf Stream eddies push through. Boats typically run the wreck with mooring balls and surface current is common.