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| MileMarker: | 97 |
| Location: | Lat 24 56.58 Lon 80 28.54 75 yards SE of Little Conch Reef |
| Markers: | |
| Depth Range: | 25 to 25 feet deep |
| Skill Level req.: | beginner |
| Risks/Warnings: | none |
| History | |
| El Infante was a galleon-class Spanish ship. It was part of the 1733 treasure fleet heading for Spain from the New World. After the fleet left Havana harbor, a hurricane struck the ships, driving 21 galleons onto the reefs. Nearly the entire fleet was destroyed. Each ship left behind a large pile of ballast stones, timbers, and their treasure cargo. The colossal amount of treasure was salvaged first by the Spanish, and much later by American treasure hunters using sophisticated salvage equipment. Even today, divers can find coral-encrusted coins, pottery, and other ancient artifacts at this dive site, particularly after heavy storms. It is said that much of the treasure from the Spanish ships yet remains submerged and available. |
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| Dive Description | |
| The Infante is basically a large pile of rocks, with a few old timbers sticking out here and there. As it is right next to Little Conch Reef, the surrounding sea bottom is quite beautiful, with many types of coral, sponge, and sea fans. Divers should remember to bring a rigid board such as a plastic writing pad with which to fan the sea bottom for coins. One can expect to see fire coral, brain coral, etc, tube sponges, and rope sponges. |
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| Divesite info by: Jonathan Brinkman | |
Divelog for El Infante - Wreck
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