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Luganowreck in Miami Beach |
Details
Access
Permanent Mooring Balls
GPS coordinates
25° 26.610' N
80° 07.180' W |
| Frequently visiting operators |
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Divers Paradise |
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Ace Diving |
Best Gases
| Diluent mix |
| Gas prices |
| Diluent tank | $9.00 |
| O2 tank | $10.00 |
| Closest standard mix | Air |
| Gas mix |
| Gas Price (Single) |
| Aluminum 80 | $13.00 |
| Steel HP 100 | $13.00 |
| Steel LP 85 | $13.00 |
| Closest standard mix | - |
🎥 Jonathan Bensman
Divers' Uploaded Pictures
Divers' Reviews
Wreck Details
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| Steamer |
| Sunk date | March 9th, 1913 |
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| 350 ft | 40 ft |
| Length | Beam |
Site Description
Lugano is a fascinating dive site located off the coast of Miami, within Biscayne National Park. This site is part of the Maritime Heritage Trail, which features several historic shipwrecks that offer a glimpse into the region’s maritime past. The Lugano was a 350-foot Italian steamer built in 1913. It met its fate on March 9, 1913, when it ran aground on Long Reef during a voyage from Liverpool to Havana.
Today, the wreck of the Lugano lies in shallow waters, ranging from 15 to 25 feet deep, making it accessible to both snorkelers and scuba divers. The site is known for its clear waters and excellent visibility, allowing divers to explore the remains of the ship, which are now encrusted with coral and home to a variety of marine life. The wreckage includes large sections of the hull, boilers, and other structural components, providing an intriguing underwater landscape.
The Lugano has become a thriving habitat for marine species, including colorful tropical fish, lobsters, and eels. The site is also equipped with mooring buoys to prevent anchor damage, helping to preserve the wreck for future generations. Divers visiting the Lugano can expect to see a vibrant underwater ecosystem, with the added allure of exploring a piece of maritime history.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or an avid diver, the Lugano offers a unique and captivating underwater experience. Its combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the underwater wonders of Biscayne National Park.
Route
A very easy site to navigate. Local operator don't often visit this site stand alone, and it may be part of a trip to the reef known as "Long Reef" at Biscayne National Park. The dive site is usually done as an anchor dive - operator may park the boat at one of the existent mooring balls.
Typical Conditions
Good visibility is the norm in this site. Currents are often very mild.
Wreck History
The Lugano was a 350-foot, 3,770-ton iron-hulled cargo steamship built in 1882 in England. On March 9, 1913, while en route from Liverpool to Havana, the Lugano ran aground on Long Reef in Biscayne National Park during high winds and heavy seas. At the time of its grounding, the ship was carrying a valuable cargo that included fine silks, wines, rice, and other goods valued at $1 million, as well as 116 passengers, most of whom were Spanish immigrants heading to Cuba.
Efforts to salvage the ship and its cargo began immediately. The tug Rescue was dispatched to take the passengers to Key West, while the captain and crew remained aboard to oversee the salvage operations. Over the next few weeks, significant portions of the cargo were removed, and attempts were made to refloat the ship by pumping out water and relighting the boilers. Despite these efforts, the ship remained firmly lodged on the reef and was heavily listing to port.
By April 15, 1913, all efforts to refloat the Lugano were abandoned after two days of high winds further battered the vessel. The ship was declared a total loss, and the remaining cargo was salvaged by various wrecking crews. The wreck of the Lugano now lies in about 25 feet of water off Long Reef, where it has become a popular dive site and a thriving habitat for marine life.
The Lugano’s story is a testament to the challenges faced by mariners navigating the treacherous waters of the Florida Keys. Today, the wreck serves as a historical landmark within Biscayne National Park, offering divers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of maritime history while enjoying the vibrant underwater ecosystem that has developed around it.