In the Florida Keys, the ocean isn't just part of the scenery. Because beneath those shimmering teal waters, there are adventures and discoveries just waiting to be found.

And in today's episode, we'll explore two very different - yet equally captivating - gems of the Keys, with excerpts from two different episodes of the 30-part Florida Keys Traveler podcast.

First, join host Elizabeth Harryman Lasley as she visits Marathon's Dolphin Research Center. Mandy Rodriguez co-founded DRC in 1984 as a research facility where dolphins are cared for and nurtured in a forever home. The results are something you'll have to hear to believe. (Hint: It really is possible to speak with them - and doing so has saved many lives).

Then, Elizabeth speaks with Kim Fisher. In 1985, Kim's father Mel Fisher finally found the object of a deep-sea search spanning nearly 17 years. The Atocha shipwreck was named by the Guinness Book of World Records as the most valuable shipwreck treasure ever recovered, then worth an estimated $400 million.

Join us for an episode that will have you eager to hop into the water by the time you're done.

VISIT THE FLORIDA KEYS

If you want to learn more about booking your own trip to experience the sights and attractions featured in this episode, go to Fla-Keys.com. To call from the United States or Canada, dial 1 (800) FLA-KEYS or contact your travel advisor.

SOCIAL

For more details about Dolphin Research Center, and for details about this episode's featured dolphins, Pax and Talon, go to dolphins.org.

For more information about Mel Fisher's Treasures, go to melfisher.com. The Florida Keys History Center, itself a treasure trove of Keys history, is located in the Key West Library: keyslibraries.org.

And please help share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com.

CREDITS

This show was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Elizabeth Harryman-Lasley hosted and wrote the show. Jason Paton recorded, mixed, and sound designed it. Jenny Allison and Aaron Millar produced it.

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