Thunderbolt Wreck
Thunderbolt Wreck is one of the most popular wreck dive sites in Florida. The history of the vessel is very rich as it former name was the USS Randolph and it used to serve as the boat for laying cables. Its next function was to research lightning strikes. She was sunk in 1986 and became an artificial reef in Marathon. Diving in Thunderbolt is interesting as divers have opportunities to explore it inside and check the engine room. The remains are almost intact and divers can easily explore hull, bow, stern and docks while diving in the site. The most curious part of the wreck for diving around is its wheel, which served as a mine-maker.
When To Go Diving
Diving in Thunderbolt is advisable from May to October, which is a hot and wet season with average air temperatures of 30-32C/86-89F and water averages of 27-29C/80-84F. The period from November to April is characterized as a warm and dry season, with water and air temperatures around 16-18C/60-64.
What to see
Multiple coral formation, sponges and gorgonians cover the wreck nowadays, creating great conditions for local marine creatures, easily spotted while scuba-diving in Thunderbolt. Marine life is presented by such species as barracuda, angelfish, jacks, amberjacks, hogfish, groupers and tarpons.