Sign In Sign UpShopView Cart0

Activity / Event
07/23/2026 - 12:30 Sponge Planting
Time: 12:30 PM-4:00 PM
Price: $99.00 per person
 
Boat / Location
Giant Stride [Key Dives]
Openings
4
Description

Schedule for the day:

8:30 AM – Sponge Outplanting Training (required to outplant)
Meet at the dive shop for an engaging training session led by I.CARE educators and marine biologists. This includes a short PowerPoint presentation and a hands-on demonstration covering proper sponge outplanting techniques. You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the reef ecosystem and the role you’ll play in restoring it.

Midday Break (approx. 1–2 hours)
After training, enjoy a break before your dives. We recommend bringing your own lunch or exploring nearby local restaurants — feel free to ask our team for recommendations!

12:15 PM – Afternoon Dive Check-In
Return to the shop for dive check-in and gear prep.

12:30 PM – Departure for Afternoon Boat Charter
You’ll complete two guided dives at the same restoration site. All outplanting materials are provided, and you’ll be supported underwater by I.CARE-trained divemasters and Key Dives staff. The trip returns between 4:00–5:00 PM.


Want to Join Without Outplanting?

Not participating in the outplanting? No problem — you can still dive!
This trip is open to certified divers whether you're helping restore the reef or simply exploring it. You'll dive the same site and be guided by our award-winning team.


LOCALS DIVE FOR FREE

Islamorada residents — we invite you to participate at no cost as part of our community conservation efforts. Please call for verification and availability.


What’s Included

  • 2-tank guided afternoon dive

  • Training presentation & hands-on coral/sponge outplanting demo (for I.CARE participants)

  • Tanks & weights

  • Fresh fruit post-dive

  • Ice cooler and drinking water onboard (please bring a refillable bottle)

  • Hot freshwater showers on the boat


What to Bring

  • Towels, hat, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing

  • Lunch or snacks for your midday break

  • Additional drinks and personal dive gear, if desired

  • Reef-safe sunscreen only – help protect the corals you're working to restore


Dive Rates

  • Standard Rate: $99

  • Locals: Free with valid local ID (based on availability)

  • Multi-trip discounts available

  • $2 per trip is donated to reef restoration efforts

  • 2% of all Key Dives revenue is reinvested into coral conservation in the Florida Keys


Booking & Cancellation Policy

  • Trips are charged in full one week before departure

  • 24-hour cancellation policy (72 hours during holidays)

  • Cancellations within this window will forfeit the full trip cost

  • Weather-related cancellations by Key Dives are fully refunded


Contact Us to Book

Key Dives
85960 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036
 Phone: (305) 664-2211
 Email: info@keydives.com
 Website: www.keydives.com


Be part of the solution — dive with purpose.
Join us to help restore Islamorada’s reef while experiencing one of the most rewarding dives the Keys have to offer.