THE FLORIDA KEYS INTERNET GUIDE

THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARD CUTTER DUANE lies upright on a sandy bottom in 120 feet of water one mile south of Molasses Reef off Key Largo. After being decommissioned on August 1, 1985 as the oldest active U.S. military vessel, the Duane was donated to the Keys Association of Dive Operators for use as an artifical reef. On November 27, 1987, she was towed to Molasses Reef, her hatches opened, her holds pumped full of water, and down she went to begin her final assignment. On a clear day the outline of the Duane's intact hull can be seen from above. The mast and crow's nest protruding high above on the hull, can be seen at 60 feet. At 70 feet, just forward of the amidships, is the navigating bridge. The superstructure deck is at 90 feet and the main deck lies at 100 feet. The hull structure, completely intact with the original rudders, screws, railings, ladders and ports makes an impressive display. The following fish and invertebrates may be observed at the site: large pelagic fish, barracuda, yellowtail snapper, angelfish, wrasse, damselfish, spotted blenny, butterfly fish, trumpetfish, grunts, winged mollusk, and an occassional sea turtle.

Diver Level: Advanced Openwater
Maximum Depth: 110 feet
Location: 24-52.184N, 80-34.217W
Mooring buoys submerged

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