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| MileMarker: | 94 |
| Location: | 1 mile East of Little Conch Reef |
| Markers: | |
| Depth Range: | 35 to 35 feet deep |
| Skill Level req.: | beginner to intermediate |
| Risks/Warnings: | none |
| History | |
| The San Jose was a galleon-class Spanish ship. It was part
of a 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. The San Jose has been more productive (of
treasure) than most of the other Spanish wrecks. In 1973, salvage
operations on a newly discovered section 50 yards from the main wreck
yielded over $30,000 in gold and silver during the first day of salvage.
Much more was taken subsequent to that operation. | |
| Dive Description | |
| The San Jose is basically a large pile of rocks, with the
ribs and keel exposed. 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. | |
| Divesite info by: Jonathan Brinkman | |
Divelog for San Jose - Wreck
Add your dive to the divelog below!! CLICK HERE.
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