Experience Scuba Diving in the Florida Keys

The Best Scuba Diving in the Florida Keys

Florida Keys Scuba Diving

One of a Kind Scuba Diving Trips in Marathon, Big Pine Key and Key West!

Captain Hook’s invites you to dive headfirst into the vibrant waters of the Florida Keys on a scuba diving trip. This is no ordinary dive! Crystal waters, vivid coral and marine life that comes alive beneath the surface are just a few reasons the Florida Keys are one of the best dive locations in the world. The Keys are world renowned for their protected reefs, hidden gems and wreck diving. Beginners and seasoned divers alike can find something unforgettable. With guided tours and top-notch gear ready to go, Capt. Hook’s makes every dive safe, thrilling and packed with discovery.

Marathon

View our available diving & snorkeling trips in Marathon

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Big Pine Key

View our available diving & snorkeling trips in Big Pine

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Key West

View our available diving & snorkeling trips in Key West

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Why Go Diving With Us?

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We Make It Easy

Convenient & Fun! At our Marathon & Big Pine Key locations our boats are docked right behind our shops. Park, come in & check-in and dive…boom!. At our Key West shop, you go to Key West Harbour Yacht Club and Marina to launch. When you book with us, you have full use of the Harbour Club for that day, with free parking when you are with us. No other shop offers that in Key West.

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Must-dive Wrecks

As a diver, you will have more trip options because Capt. Hook’s has two locations to serve you. We are the only operator in the Middle Keys, Lower Keys and Key West that goes to four wrecks- Vandenberg, Cayman Salvager, Adolphus Busch Sr and Thunderbolt. If you are a wreck diver, we are your wreck dive shop! Ask for our “Full Metal Tour.”

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Rental Gear

Rental gear is important. Our rental dive gear is up-to-date and well-kept. Our gear program is designed to rotate out older equipment and purchase the latest in scuba technology to offer it on our dive trips. We also discount full gear packages and snorkel packages to keep gear rental affordable for our customers.

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Complimentary Guide

A guide in the water can help our divers navigate the reef, to show off its highlights and to offer any in-water assistance that may be needed. There is no charge for this service. It is often appreciated, but it is not a requirement to follow the guide as long as you have a buddy diver. Our guides take great pride in showing you something that you have never seen, especially the marine friends that they have made diving these beautiful reefs. This is coming soon in Key West.

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Sunset & Night Dives

It is a single location dive. A late afternoon dive… then a beautiful Keys sunset…then once dark, a second dive to witness an amazing transformation of the reef. New species coming out of the coral, new activity all around, and even surface bioluminescence that you will be delighted to see. It’s a new world down there and you will be one of the few lucky ones to see it all happen in front of you.

Read Reviews from Our Happy Divers!

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Posted on Google

Boone Howard
17 October 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very nice and professional team. Plenty of time given for snorkeling at some beautiful reefs. Curtis was a great captain and the whole crew was a fun time

Posted on Google

Tracy Rodgers
15 October 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great experience. Great dive team. Very safe and fun. All the team was very personable and knowledgeable.

Posted on Google

Jeremiah Mason
15 October 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Cap'n Curtis and his crew were awesome! Very thorough with instructions so dont worry if you're a first timer. Very family and beginner friendly. Will do this again for sure!

Posted on Google

Tamara Zelaya
12 October 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Captain Curtis runs a tight, fun vessel. Ms. Lisa was AWESOME in personally guiding my 12 year 9ld granddaughter through all aspects, and details, required to attain her Diving Certification. Two days on the boat was wonderful. The depth of combined expertise of the crew was top notch. I would recommend Captain Hooks to others coming to the area.

Posted on Google

Eric Azebu
11 October 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had the pleasure of both snorkeling and getting my Open Water dive certification through Captain Hook’s. Max Ebel was my scuba instructor and he was everything I could’ve hoped for in a teacher. He was a friendly guy, knew an incredible amount about diving, and was enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge with me. Max excelled at explaining skills and techniques clearly and breaking them down into easy to understand steps. He had excellent situational awareness underwater and constantly checked in with me to make sure I was ok, had plenty of air in my tank, and to let me know when a piece of my gear had fallen out of place. He was a pro at spotting interesting marine life and above all else, Max made me feel safe and comfortable in the water.

Assisting Max during the Open Water class was Jennifer. She too was a very friendly and knowledgeable diver. Jenn helped me review many of the underwater skills, and did an excellent job fulfilling the role of my dive partner during out-of-air drills, pre-dive equipment checks, and rescue drills. Working with her was a lot of fun and in case she reads this, I apologize for my inability to keep your face out of the water during the valve tow.

Finally, I’d like to give a shout out to Captain Curtis. I had the privilege of riding on his boat three separate times. Curtis was a funny and friendly guy but definitely took his responsibilities as captain seriously. While I was resting on the boat in the middle of a dive, another captain steered their vessel over the area where our divers were. Curtis immediately sounded an air horn and called them out for creating unsafe conditions for the divers. I was happy to see that diver safety was a priority for Curtis and that he didn’t hesitate to act.

I was impressed by the professionalism, competence, and friendliness demonstrated by everyone at Captain Hook’s. I had a great time diving with them and hope to return again in the future.

Posted on Google

Casey Garcia
8 October 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Everyone was amazing and I highly recommend you go on the snorkeling tour!!!

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Nathan Kempka
7 October 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our family had an absolutely incredible experience with Captain Hook’s Marina & Dive Center in Big Pine Key! As first-time snorkelers, we weren’t quite sure what to expect, but choosing the upgraded snorkeling excursion was one of the best decisions we made. The extra cost was minimal and completely worth every penny.
From the moment we arrived, the crew made us feel comfortable, welcomed, and excited for the adventure ahead. Their professionalism, friendliness, and attention to safety helped put all of our first-time nerves at ease.
The snorkeling itself exceeded our expectations. We were amazed by the variety of marine life we encountered and loved seeing so many different species in their natural habitat. It was truly an unforgettable experience and one that created lasting memories for our family.
A special shout-out goes to Ericka, our snorkeling guide. She was absolutely fantastic! Her enthusiasm, knowledge, patience, and friendly personality made the trip even more enjoyable. She took the time to make sure everyone felt comfortable in the water and helped us get the most out of our snorkeling experience. Ericka is a tremendous ambassador for Captain Hook’s, and we’re so grateful she was part of our first snorkeling adventure.
If you're considering a snorkeling trip in the Florida Keys, we highly recommend Captain Hook’s Marina & Dive Center. Whether you're an experienced snorkeler or a complete beginner like we were, their outstanding crew and excellent service will make for a memorable day on the water.
Thank you, Captain Hook’s and Ericka, for giving us an amazing first snorkeling experience.

Posted on Google

Jackie Merideth
4 October 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Curtis and Ericka were kind, patient, and caring while I struggled to get in the boat after wearing myself out. Even while I proceeded to lose my breakfast after getting on the boat they allowed me to feel okay about it. They monitored all drivers and snorkelers to ensure we were all safe.

Posted on Google

Carrie Wagner
29 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The crew was great even though conditions caused us to come back and miss the second dive. They gave us a 50% refund because of the early return. Great operation. Can’t control the weather. Thanks Captain John and crew.

Posted on Google

David cuziwanna
25 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 5 star experience with the Captain and crew. Cant say enough good things. Clean well manged boat. My Son and I had a fantastic time snorkeling Looekey reef!! Ill be back!

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ian magoon
19 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great snorkeling on Looe Key with lots of fish and coral. Crew did a great job with a mix of snorkelers and divers. A++++++

Posted on Google

Amber Evans
19 September 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely perfect snorkel experience with Captain Ian, dive masters Jen and Mark!! We saw sea turtles, sharks, so many fish and a spotted eagle ray!! Such a friendly crew!! Highly recommend the Looe Reef snorkel and dive trip!!

Posted on Tripadvisor

Jason H
20 August 2026

Verified Fantastic Trip
We chartered Capt Hooks for 3 days of adventure this July. There were 5 of us on the boat. We had a fantastic trip diving the Vandy, and lobster diving! The crew was awesome (Billy, Malcom, Troy, and Hayden). They took great care of us making sure we had everything we needed. They were super accommodating with our requests with dive spots. We are already booked with them for next year! I would highly recommend them for your Florida Keys water adventure!!

Posted on Tripadvisor

Grant B
1 August 2026

Verified Fantastic day of diving and snorkeling
Spent the whole day with Captain Hook and it was fantastic. We started off diving the Vandenberg in the morning. Both dives were just spectacular. The visibility just seemed to never end. The dive masters and crew were great. Then the afternoon I dove one of the reefs while my wife was able to snorkel above me. It was a very unique experience. It’s hard to find a dive shop that caters to non divers as well as divers and does such a great job. While I dove, one dive master stayed with the snorkelers to insure they had a great time as well. This is very rare. We appreciated all the effort the entire crew put forth to make this a fantastic day.

Posted on Tripadvisor

MJJ
30 July 2026

Verified Great experience. Great value.
My son and I did the 2 tank dive. Our guide, Maddie, was very knowledgeable and very helpful. We got to see a nice grouper and a small shark. We learned a lot from the whole staff. They were very patient and informative.

Posted on Trustindex

Jacob
12 July 2026

Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex. Great experience
Great

David was great
Curtis was great
Ian was great
Leanne was great

Posted on Tripadvisor

Michael T
19 June 2026

Verified Wonderful staff makes trip super
Staff were excellent! Such support and willingness to help. The captain was excellent, the dad jokes were epic. I am a recent knee replacement patient and they went out of their way to make my stay comfortable and exciting. Even with divers and snookers together, they tended to both groups very, very well.

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Geoff Timms
12 June 2026

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. Detailed, safety-focused instruction with patient instructors/dive guides. Pool preparation in the morning and two dives at Looe Key in the afternoon. Amazing first scuba experience for me with great people in a wonderful location! Shout out to Josh and Leigh Anne for their pool training and to Josh for guiding us on our dive. Really enjoyed hanging with you.

Posted on Tripadvisor

Ellen M
8 June 2026

Verified Dive Fantasy
Hi!! Beautiful dives both yesterday and today on Looe Key, with Connor and today with Mark. Both great buddies!! Captain John was great also! Dove "Shark Alley". The reef was incredible with sharks, Goliath Grouper, stingrays schooling purple tangs and green morals and big parrot fish!!! Haven't been on Looe Key in years and was blown away!!

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Sunshine17529650141
8 June 2026

Verified Best of both worlds! Snorkel and sunset cruise in one.
Captain Candace and Tanner aimed to please.

Posted on Tripadvisor

Beverly Y
5 June 2026

Verified Excellent Scuba Experience 🤿
I had my first ever Open Water Scuba Certification training at the Marathon location with Ian Rashid … I was very anxious and nervous, but after the pool training I felt really comfortable with all the training Ian gave us ! Then for my open water dives my anxiety got the better of me on the first dive .. so I went back to the boat to regroup and after talking with the boat crew … I did the 2nd dive and it was a huge success we also saw 2 Eagle Rays to make it even more amazing ! Ian was very understanding and took the time needed for me to feel comfortable and master all the skills I needed to get my certification ! All the staff went above and beyond to accommodate my location and transport me to the locations ( I live on a boat so transportation between dive sites Key West to Big Pine Key was a must for me ) I can’t thank all of the staff , boat crew , Ian my diving instructor & location staff enough for all of the support , training and how they went above and beyond to make sure I had a great experience learning to scuba and feeling confident for my future dives ! I highly recommend them for scuba lessons as well as snorkeling excursions too ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Posted on Facebook

Shay Bennett Carter
1 June 2026

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. We had a wonderful experience with Captain Curtis and Divemaster Connor out of the Marathon location visiting the donut and coffin patch. Both were very professional and knowledgeable. Safety was top priority which made us feel so confident. We also went to the Big Pine location visiting Looe Key. It was also a gear experience with Divemaster Jenifer. Highly recommend for professionalism and safety.

Posted on Tripadvisor

matt g
31 May 2026

Verified Excellent outing with Captain Hook's
I've been diving in many places and our four dives (two each) out of Big Pine and Marathon were perhaps the best ever. We saw multiple: nurse sharks, barracuda, eagle rays, lobsters, and a massive grouper as large as a linebacker. The dive before us saw a hammerhead. Darn! The reef is vibrant and filled with the other usual colorful fish ... there was a kaleidoscope of colors down there. Our dive master Jennifer was excellent, she took care of everything so that we only had to jump in and enjoy the view. Definitely add Captain Hook's to your Keys itinerary.

Posted on Tripadvisor

Paul K
2 May 2026

Verified Nice trip
I have many dives with Captain Hooks over the years. Always nice. We did a day of snorkeling with Captain Hooks this trip. It was very pleasant and enjoyable. Great crew. No crowds. My only wish was that we would have gone to two different reef sites. We hit one spot and literally moved to the back of the same spot for our second experience. I understand fuel is very expensive now but still looked forward to seeing another spot.

Posted on Tripadvisor

Gerben
28 April 2026

Verified Great company and people to go snorkeling with
We (wife , daughter 15yr and me) took a 3-4 hour trip snorkeling tour to Looe Key. In the shop we had friendly most useful tips and I was able to rent a mask with prescription ‘glasses’ (which is most recommendable) We went with people either diving or snorkeling. I believe everyone had a great time , the divers saw shark(s) and also some people snorkeling saw big mantas. We saw all colors and sizes of fish. I consider we were very well supported by the staff amongst which captain John , supported by Jen giving a great effort, sharing energy and enthusiasm to make this a great experience which it became I highly recommend captain Hook tours. Perhaps I add pictures later (are still on the gopro)

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Alex Fafinski
2 April 2026

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. I have been diving all over the world for over 20 years and have seen good and downright scary operations. So when I decided to look for a place to do my teenage kids open water certification I was going to be really picky. When we planned our vacation to the Keys I decided to do my due diligence and check out the shops in the area. After talking to some local friends and checking out the reviews I decided to give Capt Hook’s a chance and I could not be happier with that decision. From the minute we showed up they had a safety first approach, taking time to make sure the kids fully understood the concepts from the e-Learning before they even got in the pool. The gear was modern, immaculate and organized with the same care I use with my gear which is pretty rare. Because my one daughter was 14 I had to accompany them to the pool and on the boat so I got to watch everything. Their instructor Max was incredibly professional, he was able to convey critical skills without scaring the kids and provided tons of positive feedback without patronizing them. When they made a mistake he provided thoughtful feedback without making them feel bad or demeaning them but making sure they got it right and understood the why. His experience, attention to detail and level of instruction were on par with military training but with a softer approach. Trusting someone take all of your kids to the bottom of the ocean was something I did not think I would be able to do, but by the end of the pool day Max had my full confidence and I stayed on the surface the two boat days. Each day the kids came home excited for the next day and bursting with pride in the skills they mastered. Their dive plan for their last day was better than anything I have planned in years and they really understood the how and why of the plan. In the end I could not be happier with my decision, I am 100% confident my kids have the skills they need and are probably better then several of the more experienced divers I have recently been on dives with. I usually leave constructive criticism in my reviews, but I honestly would not change a thing about the last three days of training. If you are on the fence about training or what shop to use, don’t look any further, Capt Hooks will do the job right and you will have a blast!

Posted on Facebook

Tim Reid
19 March 2026

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. My wife and I became certified while visiting the Keys. Captain Hooks staff were professional and Informative. We had an amazing instructor, Leigh Anne Carter. We cant say enough about her ability to break things down and explain. My wife and I are both lifelong teachers and Leigh Anne is a natural. Thank you Leigh Anne, Frank, and all the staff at Captain Hooks.

Posted on Facebook

Jolene Pioli
3 March 2026

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. The staff was awesome and super accommodating. Sat and chatted about where to fish and what to fish with. We can’t wait to be back to visit. Fish on 🎣

Posted on Tripadvisor

Shatzi s
23 January 2026

Verified go here!
Just was certified at Captain Hooks. I was 100% impress and satisfied with every interaction with this place. David Hinkley was a great teacher. Very patient and personable. There is a reason they are rated number #1. The people they have. A bonus the locations and equipment. Why would you go anywhere else?

Posted on Tripadvisor

SJ
19 January 2026

Verified Perfect snorkeling experience from a great crew
Great team leading us on our snorkel trip yesterday. Just loved the feel of it from the start. Captain Curtis was awesome, Ron was great and the new guy (Connor I think) was extremely helpful. Didn't find the greatest spot initially and quickly moved on because they wanted us to see stuff. Prioritized safety first and created a welcoming atmosphere for all levels of snorkelers. Gave us ample time to explore and were able to match up timing with the divers on the boat. Really impressive operation. No frills, but you don't need any. Price was best I found and I wasn't even searching based on price. Had plenty of wetsuits (and I recommended them in Jan.) Higher end snorkeling equipment than I have seen from other operators in the Caribbean. Just the right number of people on the trip, not crowded on the boat.

Posted on Facebook

Monti Kist
18 November 2025

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. From the moment we stepped into Captain Hook’s, we knew we were in good hands. David H took three nervous beginners and turned us into confident divers. Between mastering our full-face masks and earning our Open Water certification, he kept us laughing, learning, and focused. His advice on diving gear was spot-on—no upselling, just honest insight. Captain Hook’s doesn’t feel like a dive center; it feels like joining a family.

Posted on Facebook

Alexis Murdza
3 August 2025

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. Everyone at Captain Hook’s was wonderful and I had such an amazing experience scuba diving thanks to this crew. Captain Ron was FANTASTIC and so was my dive instructor Jared. Both ensured that I was comfortable with diving and were extremely compassionate. Thank you guys for an unforgettable experience!!!

Posted on Facebook

Mike Holtkamp
13 July 2025

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. These guys are AWESOME!!! Did the Vandenberg, the Cayman and a reef dive with Capt. Hooks. They do everything right! Had a slight mishap at the Vandy (my fault 100% - I screwed up) on dive 1 and Bill, our DiveMaster handled it with calm, professionalism and concern for safety. When we got back on the boat, he offered encouragement, constructive advice and made sure I didn’t let my stupidity impact my love for the sport. Dive 2 was PERFECT and a freaking blast!! Cayman was awesome also! Saw some MASSIVE groupers, a couple big ugly eels, a couple sharks, barracuda, shrimp, lobster - all capped off by some dolphins and a hammerhead shark joining us on the ride back to the docks! 🦈🦞🦐🐠🐡🐟🐬 Can’t wait to come back! No one does it like Captain Hooks Key West!! 🤿🛥️

Posted on Facebook

Marye Lois Sam McCroskey
8 April 2025

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. Just went on an amazing trip to Australia, dove the Yolonga, Coral Sea and the GBR thru Captain Capt. Hook's Dive Key West travel program. Everything was well choreographed by our very enthusiastic dive instructor, Max Ebel and Mike Ball Dive Expeditions was a superb dive outfit. We went to places seldom seen, did some challenging wreck dives and some relaxed reef dives. Enjoyed the group and getting to know divers from around the country (and some from across the street at home!) We also joined the pre-trip Eco-Tour of Dainbridge Rainforest, the Waterfall Route and Cape Trib. Congratulations to Capt. Hook's Marina & Dive Center on their travel program (this was my second trip and my husband's 3rd trip with them). Cannot recommend highly enough!!

Posted on Facebook

Sharon Patterson
20 March 2025

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. We had a great time snorkeling! The Captain loves his job and is passionate about preserving the coral reefs and sea life. The crew was so helpful and concerned for our safety. Can’t wait to go again next year!!

Posted on Facebook

Bill Peklay
12 March 2025

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. Capt Ron are friendly, funny and very helpful . My instructor Lisa Scannell was awesome, she was very helpful and informative plus patient. The whole experience was great

Posted on Facebook

Edwin Peterson
8 March 2025

recommendsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Facebook. Great crew!! They made our first dive in Key West one we will remember. Very friendly, relaxed atmosphere, and professional. We will definitely be diving with them again. Thank you for an awesome experience!!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best scuba diving sites in the Florida Keys?

The Florida Keys deliver top dive sites like Molasses Reef, USS Spiegel Grove, Christ of the Abyss, Sombrero Reef, Looe Key Reef and many others. Each spot has its own appeal.

When is the best time to go scuba diving in the Florida Keys?

You can dive here any time of year. April through September offer warm waters, great visibility and calm seas. Watch out for hurricane season towards the end of summer time though. If you’re coming in the fall/winter months, October through March can be windy so be sure to check forecast and plan for rougher waters.

Do I need to be certified to scuba dive in the Florida Keys?

Most dives require certification. Beginners can take introductory courses or try a Discover Scuba experience to dive ASAP.

What marine life can I expect to see while diving in the Florida Keys?

Expect vibrant marine life including colorful tropical fish and graceful sea turtles, to nurse sharks, barracudas, grouper and more. The reefs pulse with life at every turn.

Are there any wreck dives available in the Florida Keys?

The Florida Keys are famous for wreck diving. You can explore wrecks like the USS Spiegel Grove, the Vandenberg, Thunderbolt and the Adolfus Busch.

How can I find the best dive shop in the Florida Keys?

When picking a dive operator, check for strong certifications, solid safety records, dive options that match your skill and recent reviews. Capt. Hook’s checks all of these boxes. This is why we won the award for the best dive shop in Marathon!

Book Your Florida Keys Dive Trip here!

Not Certified to Dive?

No problem! Want to dive the same day? You can dive the ocean with an instructor on same day or we can get you fully certified to dive for a lifetime. Click the button to see your options!

I Want To Get Certified!

Experience Scuba Diving in the Florida Keys

Florida Keys Scuba Diving

Marathon

Big Pine Key

Key West

Why Go Diving With Us?

We Make It Easy

Must-dive Wrecks

Rental Gear

Complimentary Guide

Sunset & Night Dives

Read Reviews from Our Happy Divers!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best scuba diving sites in the Florida Keys?

When is the best time to go scuba diving in the Florida Keys?

Do I need to be certified to scuba dive in the Florida Keys?

What marine life can I expect to see while diving in the Florida Keys?

Are there any wreck dives available in the Florida Keys?

How can I find the best dive shop in the Florida Keys?

Book Your Florida Keys Dive Trip here!

Not Certified to Dive?

Captain Hook’s Marina & Dive Center

Capt. Hook’s Big Pine Key

Capt. Hook’s Dive Key West