Fort Lauderdale

The most popular dive sites in Fort Lauderdale, United States, are often part of the 'Wreck Trek.' This includes famous wrecks like the Mercedes I, a 198-foot freighter. It's popular due to its impressive size, accessibility for various skill levels, and the dense marine life it attracts, including large schools of fish and resident goliath groupers. Its proximity to shore and moderate depth make it a classic and frequently visited site by local dive charters.

Well-known sites include the Wreck Trek (Mercedes, Tracey, Jay Scutti) and the shallow coral reefs like Vista Park Reef. For less crowded but excellent dives, explore the 'Ten Fathom Ledge' or smaller, deeper wrecks like the 'Ancient Mariner' or the 'RBJ'. These sites are often visited by more experienced divers and can offer pristine conditions and unique marine encounters away from the main crowds.

Water temperatures in Fort Lauderdale, United States, are suitable for year-round diving. In the summer (June-September), expect warm water from 82-86°F (28-30°C). During the winter months (December-March), temperatures cool down to a range of 72-76°F (22-24°C). The spring and fall seasons offer a comfortable transition between these two extremes. A thermocline can sometimes be present on deeper dives.

The best time for diving in Fort Lauderdale, United States, is typically from May through August. During these months, the Atlantic is usually at its calmest, and the water is warmest with the best visibility. While diving is excellent year-round, be aware that winter can bring rougher seas. Also, keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June to November, so it's wise to monitor weather forecasts during that period.

Underwater visibility in Fort Lauderdale, United States, is generally good, typically ranging from 40 to 70 feet (12-21 meters). On calm, clear days, especially in the summer and with an incoming tide, visibility can exceed 100 feet (30+ meters). However, it can be reduced by factors like recent rainfall, strong onshore winds, or tidal changes, so conditions can vary from day to day.

The most significant seasonal event in Fort Lauderdale, United States, is the goliath grouper aggregation. From late August to early October, hundreds of these massive fish gather on the wrecks to spawn, creating an incredible spectacle. While manta rays and whale sharks are very rare, winter and spring can bring other pelagics like sailfish or hammerhead sharks closer to shore as they follow the Gulf Stream.

You can expect a rich diversity of marine life. Common sightings on the reefs include angelfish, parrotfish, moray eels, lobsters, and sea turtles (loggerhead, green, and hawksbill). The wrecks are home to large schools of barracuda, amberjack, and snappers. Nurse sharks are frequently seen resting under ledges, and the area is famous for its massive goliath groupers, especially during their spawning season in late summer.

In the summer (May-October), when water is above 80°F (27°C), a rash guard or 1-3mm shorty is usually sufficient. For winter diving (November-April), when water temperatures drop into the low 70s°F (22-24°C), a 3mm or 5mm full wetsuit is recommended to stay comfortable, especially for multiple dives. Some divers may also prefer a hood or gloves during the coldest months.

The primary gateway is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), which is conveniently located near the city center and marinas. Alternatively, Miami International Airport (MIA) is about a 45-minute drive south. Once you arrive, renting a car or using rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are the most efficient ways to travel between your hotel, dive shops, and the various boat departure points.

You should plan to stay on shore in Fort Lauderdale, United States. There are no local liveaboards dedicated to this area because all dive sites, including the extensive reef and wreck systems, are located very close to shore. The diving infrastructure is built around daily boat charters, with dive operators offering two-tank morning and afternoon trips. This makes for a very convenient and flexible dive vacation.