Alicia

Built in 1883 at a shipyard in Scotland, the Alicia was a 345-foot iron-hulled, three-masted steamer with a 38-foot beam. The vessel had two decks and displaced 2,800 tons. On April 20, 1905, the Alicia slammed onto the north end of Ajax Reef, just south of Long Reef within what is now Biscayne National Park. The ship was en route to Havana, Cuba from Liverpool, her cargo hulls filled with fine silks, furniture, and general merchandise. Salvors from the Keys and the Bahamas worked meticulously to recover most of the precious cargo, but the ship itself could not be refloated. The vessel was abandoned July 25th, then sold for scrap in September that same year. Explosives were used to break up the hull and to recover as much of the iron and machinery as possible. The hull and superstructure have since collapsed, and the surrounding reef has absorbed much of the vessel. The wreck remains visible and largely inline, consisting of the hull and keel of the ship. The site is an impressive scene, alive with schools of colorful reef fish, sponges, and coral. Lobster and eel are often spotted taking refuge under the hull plates. The shallow depth makes it a great spot for snorkelers and novice divers. The Alica is one of five historic wrecks designated as part of the Biscayne National Park "Shipwreck Trail". The shallow waters and surrounding coral reef make this a fantastic snorkeling location. Boaters are advised to use caution as the shallow waters near the reef often create strong surge conditions.