Jules Underwater Lodge in Key Largo, Florida: A Unique Overnight Experience

Looking for a unique vacation or honeymoon spot, near the water? Are you a certified diver, interested in getting away for a day or two? Or could it be that Jules Verne one of your favorite authors? If you can answer yes to, at least, one of these questions then the Jules Underwater Lodge may be for you.

Located in Key Largo, FL, this unique lodge REALLY IS underwater, 21 feet under the surface. The structure was originally built and used as an underwater habitat, in Puerto Rico. Because of this authenticity, Jules Underwater Lodge is a far cry from mere amusement park type simulations. In other words, 'It's the real thing, baby!'

The aquatic life in the lagoon is always changing. Nurse Sharks, Goliath Groupers, lobsters and Parrot Fish are always in the area. During the winter month's guests may see sea horses, Barracuda, Puffer Fish and a possible Manatee.

(At no other time has an underwater research center been accessible to the general population. Unless, of course, they were related to Jacque Coustou.)

The entire lodge is underwater, sitting on legs, five feet off the bottom of a mangrove lagoon. Compressed air keeps water from filling the rooms. Accommodations include a wet room; an air conditioned living room, two bedrooms, galley and dining area. Amenities include a telephone, VCR/DVD combo and a sound system, throughout.

You may think you need to be a certified diver, to stay at the lodge. That's not the case. Non-certified divers go through a three-hour class, to prepare for the dive. After which, they dive in the company of dive instructors.

Conditions within the lodge are monitored 24 hours a day, from a land-based control center location. The center 'pipes in' fresh air, water, power and communication, via an underwater cable... it is all very safe.

As you probably guess, staying at Jules Underwater Lodge is not inexpensive. But for those who can fit it into their budget, it is more than worth it. It truly is a vacation to remember!

Rates start at $345 per person/per night, for the European Style Package. It includes unlimited diving for certified divers, all dive gear, plus a light dinner and breakfast.

The Luxury Package rate is an additional $100 per person/per night. This includes the European Package and preparation of a gourmet dinner and lighter breakfast, by the lodge's very own 'mer-chef', who dives in for each occasion.

Jules Underwater Lodge offers a Mini Adventure Package, as well. Rates start at $115 per person. Certified divers can enjoy three-hours of unlimited diving or other activities such as listening to music, watching a movie or simply relaxing in the lodge.