Christ of the Abyss
A striking bronze statue of Jesus submerged 25 feet underwater, offering a unique snorkeling and diving experience amidst vibrant marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for viewing
Christ of the Abyss
Best Time
Best visibility for viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A striking bronze statue of Jesus submerged 25 feet underwater, offering a unique snorkeling and diving experience amidst vibrant marine life.
"An absolute must-do; get in the water to truly experience this amazing underwater marvel!"
Bring Snorkel Gear! :mask:
Essential for seeing the statue and marine life up close. Renting is an option, but bringing your own is best!
Sunny Days are Key :sun:
Clear skies mean crystal-clear water, making the statue and fish much more visible.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Submerged Statue
Underwater, Key Largo, Florida (or San Fruttuoso Abbey, Italy)
A striking 9-foot bronze statue of Jesus Christ resting peacefully beneath the waves. A truly unique underwater spectacle.
Crystal Clear Waters
Key Largo, Florida / San Fruttuoso, Italy
Experience breathtakingly clear, blue waters perfect for spotting marine life and the submerged statue.
Vibrant Marine Life
Around the statue, Key Largo, Florida
The reef surrounding the statue teems with colorful fish and coral, making for an unforgettable underwater encounter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dive In for the Experience
Location, Location, Location!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Snorkel Gear! :mask:
Essential for seeing the statue and marine life up close. Renting is an option, but bringing your own is best!
Sunny Days are Key :sun:
Clear skies mean crystal-clear water, making the statue and fish much more visible.
Consider a Boat Tour :boat:
Many tours depart from Key Largo, offering easy access to the statue and guided snorkeling.
Know Your 'Abyss' :world_map:
The original is in Italy; Florida has a replica. Confirm your destination!
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Snorkel Gear! :mask:
Essential for seeing the statue and marine life up close. Renting is an option, but bringing your own is best!
Sunny Days are Key :sun:
Clear skies mean crystal-clear water, making the statue and fish much more visible.
Consider a Boat Tour :boat:
Many tours depart from Key Largo, offering easy access to the statue and guided snorkeling.
Know Your 'Abyss' :world_map:
The original is in Italy; Florida has a replica. Confirm your destination!
Jump from Rocks :rock:
For an adventurous entry, try jumping from nearby rocks into the clear water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical and awe-inspiring experience of seeing the Christ of the Abyss statue underwater. The crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life are consistently praised, making it a must-do for snorkelers and divers. Some mention crowds and the occasional jellyfish sting, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.
"Had a great experience at San Fruttuoso!! We stayed at the beach for a while before we decided to go exploring along the coast. We followed a path and climbed down some rocks down to the sea and swam from there. We accidentally found the Christ statue about 15 metres out from the coast, a really cool surprise! I’ve never seen water this blue and clear before. Definitely recommend bringing glasses or a snorkelling set, so you can look at all the fish and cool stuff under the surface (and avoid jellyfish…)"
Märta Hogmark
"This was an amazing experience and an absolute must. In order to truly experience it you need to get in the water and dive just below the surface, but it is perfectly visible and simply amazing. I would encourage others to go on a sunny day though as it does make a huge difference."
John Patout
"Beautiful place. Water crystal clear and clean. Lot of fish. Few small jellyfish when we were swimming felt like mild stinging nettle."
KB Raif MD
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Christ of the Abyss statue in Key Largo is located on North Dry Rocks Reef. It's accessible by boat tour or by renting a boat. Kayaking is possible but can be challenging and is not recommended for beginners due to distance and potential sea conditions.
While technically possible, kayaking to the Christ of the Abyss from John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a significant distance and can be challenging due to currents and open water. It's generally not recommended for a casual day trip.
There is no direct parking at the underwater statue. You'll need to arrange boat transportation, typically from marinas or dive shops in Key Largo.
The statue is located offshore on a reef. The exact distance varies depending on your starting point, but it's generally a boat ride away, not a swim from the mainland.
The original 'Christ of the Abyss' is located in San Fruttuoso Abbey, Italy. The statue in Key Largo, Florida, is a replica, also known as 'Christ of the Deep,' donated to the Underwater Society of America.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need a specific ticket for the statue itself, but you will need to pay for access to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park if you depart from there, or book a boat tour which includes park fees.
The statue is always accessible underwater. However, boat tours and park access typically operate during daylight hours. It's best to check with your chosen tour operator for their schedule.
Costs vary depending on how you get there. Boat tours typically range from $50-$100 per person. Entry to John Pennekamp State Park is around $8 per vehicle.
Absolutely! Snorkeling and scuba diving are the best ways to experience the Christ of the Abyss. Many tours offer both options.
Yes, the Christ of the Abyss statue is located on North Dry Rocks Reef, which is within the boundaries of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The statue rests at a depth of approximately 25 feet (about 7.6 meters) in Key Largo, making it accessible for both snorkelers and divers.
You can expect to see a variety of colorful fish, coral formations, and other marine creatures. It's a vibrant reef ecosystem.
It can get crowded, especially during peak season and on weekends. Visiting on a weekday or during off-peak hours can offer a more serene experience.
Wear your swimsuit and consider a rash guard for sun protection. Bringing reef-safe sunscreen is also recommended.
Yes, on a clear day with good visibility, you can often see the top of the statue from the surface, but snorkeling or diving provides the full experience.
📸 📸 Photography
An underwater camera or a waterproof phone case is essential. Aim for sunny conditions for the best light and clarity.
The entire reef area around the statue is picturesque. The clear water and marine life offer numerous photo opportunities.
For underwater photography, try to maximize natural light. Using a wide-angle lens can capture more of the scene. Experiment with your camera's underwater modes if available.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many tour operators in Key Largo cater to families, providing necessary equipment and guidance. It's a unique way to introduce children to marine conservation and the wonders of the underwater world. Remember to pack reef-safe sunscreen and plenty of water for a comfortable outing.
Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to avoid inflated prices at tourist spots. The main cost will be transportation to the site. If you're already in Key Largo, focusing on a single boat trip rather than multiple activities can help manage expenses.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Two Christ Statues: Italy vs. Florida
In 1965, a bronze replica of the Italian statue was placed in Key Largo, Florida, on North Dry Rocks Reef. This Florida version, often referred to as 'Christ of the Deep' or simply 'Christ of the Abyss,' was donated by the Italian Navy and is a popular attraction within John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. While both statues share the same powerful imagery, knowing which 'Christ of the Abyss' you're visiting adds an interesting layer to the experience.
+1Both locations offer a unique opportunity to connect with art and nature in an underwater setting. Whether you're diving in the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, the sight of this submerged figure is profoundly moving and a testament to human artistry and reverence.
Experiencing the Christ of the Abyss: Snorkel vs. Dive
Scuba divers, however, can fully immerse themselves in the experience, descending to the base of the statue and exploring the reef in greater detail. This allows for a more intimate encounter with the artwork and the abundant marine life that calls the reef home. Many dive operators in Key Largo offer dedicated trips to this site, catering to certified divers of all levels.
Regardless of your chosen method, the key to a great experience is good visibility. Visiting on a sunny day with calm seas will significantly enhance your ability to see the statue clearly and appreciate the vibrant ecosystem around it.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit