One of the highlights of my Key Largo dive trip was the opportunity to visit and dive around FIU’s Aquarius shore base and underwater habitat.
Cael and his buddy swim near the Aquarius habitat in Key Largo
On Thursday, the Scubanauts and I were given a tour of FIU’s Aquarius shore facility, where we learned about the history of the Aquarius program and its significance to marine research. We also gained a deeper appreciation for FIU’s mission to restore and maintain the world’s only underwater research laboratory, ensuring that future generations of scientists can continue conducting critical ocean research.
The following day, with the support of Conch Republic Divers, we traveled by boat to the Aquarius Reef Base site. As soon as we reached the stern of the boat, we took a giant stride into the clear blue water. After equalizing and regrouping with our dive buddies, I was finally able to take in the incredible sight of the Aquarius habitat resting on the seafloor below.
A sea turtle paid the nauts a close visit during the dive
Covered in coral and surrounded by schools of fish, the structure stood as a testament to more than three decades of underwater exploration and research. As we circled the habitat, we observed many of the species that call this artificial reef home, including bluehead wrasse, Goliath grouper, nurse sharks, and even a massive hawksbill sea turtle that swam directly toward our group. The abundance of marine life highlighted the important role Aquarius plays not only as a research facility but also as a thriving marine ecosystem.
FIU and Conch Republic Divers provided the Scubanauts with a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by seeing a one in the world research lab. Seeing firsthand the laboratory where marine scientists live and work to collect data deepened my appreciation for ocean conservation and scientific research. Experiences like this inspire future scientists and reinforce the importance of protecting the oceans that sustain life on our planet.
— Cael K., Naut-in-Training, Sarasota Chapter
