We’re diving the Mercedes shipwreck off Fort Lauderdale right before Thanksgiving onboard Aqualife Divers out of Pompano Beach. The story of the wreck of the German freighter Mercedes I began in 1984 when it broke free from its anchor during a storm and washed ashore on the property of Palm Beach socialite Mollie Wilmot. This was a major media story at the time, and after extensive efforts to remove the ship, Broward County purchased it for $29,000. In March 1985, the ship was sunk to create an artificial reef.
Diving the Mercedes shipwreck requires an Advanced Open Water certification because it lies in 90-100 feet of water, split into two main sections due to damage from hurricanes. The bow and stern are about 200 feet apart, surrounded by twisted metal and vibrant marine life. Divers can explore the wreckage and the nearby natural coral reefs, making it a popular site for underwater photography and marine observation.
To dive the Mercedes, you should be an advanced diver due to the depth and potential hazards like entanglements and sharp metal. Proper training is essential, especially if you plan to penetrate the wreck. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including fish, corals, and other sea creatures, providing a rich and diverse underwater environment. Always use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.
To join this dive, please contact Aqualife Divers directly at 954-231-3483 or sign up on their website. All boat captains reserve the right to change the destination based on current conditions at the time of the dive, but we’re looking forward to going deep and blowing some bubbles. The online price is $95 per person for this two-tank dive and does not include gratuity.
Please contact the event organizer, Christopher Duncan, to let us know to expect you. But remember: you have to contact the diveboat first to confirm your spot onboard!
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