A 96-foot rust-covered yellow derelict submarine was removed from the waters off the Florida Keys, near Marathon, in one of the most unusual and challenging projects in the county’s derelict vessel removal program, Monroe County officials said.
Monroe County, courtesy 
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission defines a derelict vessel as one that is wrecked, junked or in substantially dismantled condition in Florida waters.
The county said the operation was carried out safely and efficiently by a pre-qualified marine contractor under the coordination of the Monroe County Marine Resources Office.
Officials cite environmental, safety concerns
“Derelict vessels, whether a small skiff or a massive submarine, pose serious threats to the environment, boater safety and navigation,” Senior Administrator for Marine Resources Brittany Burtner said in a statement.
“Removing this submarine is not only a win for our waterways, but also a reminder of the importance of prevention.”
Dozens of vessels removed this year
According to Monroe County officials, 134 derelict vessels have been removed from Keys waters in the first six months of 2025 through a partnership with the FWC.
The county also promotes FWC’s Vessel Turn-In Program, which allows owners to surrender at-risk vessels before they become derelict.
Officials said two significant upcoming removals include a shrimp boat off Islamorada and a grounded boat off Bahia Honda State Park.
The removal of those vessels has been scheduled within the next week, weather permitting, officials said.
