2018 Map of Soldier Key

About this map

Biscayne National Park encompasses nearly the entirety of this marine landscape, which highlights the transition between the shallow waters of Biscayne Bay and the deeper Atlantic Ocean. The map centers on a string of northern Florida Keys, notably Soldier Key and the Ragged Keys, which form a natural barrier broken by tidal channels like Lewis Cut. The northern reaches of Sands Key and the small outpost of Boca Chita Key mark the southern extent of the chain shown here. This 2018 survey documents the intricate shoal and bank systems that define the area's maritime navigation, including the extensive Featherbed Bank and the appropriately named Safety Valve flats. The Intracoastal Waterway provides a clear transit route through the bay side, while landmarks such as Black Ledge and Bowles Bank identify specific underwater features critical for modern maritime charting and local environmental conservation.