A 96-FOOT DERELICT SUBMARINE REMOVED FROM MARATHON WATERS TODAY

MARATHON, FL KEYS – A 96-foot derelict submarine was removed today from the waters near Marathon, marking one of the most unusual and challenging projects in Monroe County’s derelict vessel removal program.
 
The operation was completed safely and efficiently by a pre-qualified marine contractor under the coordination of the Monroe County Marine Resources Office.
 
“Derelict vessels, whether a small skiff or a massive submarine, pose serious threats to the environment, boater safety, and navigation,” said Senior Administrator for Marine Resources Brittany Burtner. “Removing this submarine is not only a win for our waterways, but also a reminder of the importance of prevention.”
 
Monroe County, in partnership with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), has removed 134 derelict vessels from Keys waters in the first six months of 2025. The county also promotes FWC’s Vessel Turn-In Program, which allows owners to surrender at-risk vessels before they become derelict. To learn more about the program, visit https://myfwc.com/boating/waterway/vtip/.
 
Two significant upcoming derelict vessel removals include a shrimp boat off Islamorada and the grounded boat off Bahia Honda State Park, which can be seen from U.S. 1, scheduled for removal in the next week, weather permitting.