In celebration of World Ocean Day 2025, four dedicated members of Out Scuba—Christopher, Joe, Russell, and Ken—gathered in Fort Lauderdale on June 8 for a shore dive focused on marine conservation. The primary goals of this dive were to remove underwater debris, document marine life activity, and raise awareness about ocean health and stewardship.
The dive team entered the water just before 9:00 AM, taking advantage of calm surf conditions and excellent visibility estimated at 40 to 50 feet. The water temperature was a comfortable 80°F (27°C), and there was a light southern current. The dive plan was to follow the reef line approximately 100 yards offshore, sweeping the area for marine debris while recording sightings of key species for conservation monitoring.
As the team descended, it became clear that recent weather patterns had contributed to some debris accumulation along the seafloor. Armed with cutting tools, the divers worked systematically to collect trash. Over the course of the dive, the group collected plastic cups, sanitary products, and plastic strips. All items were safely removed and properly disposed.
Despite the unfortunate presence of marine debris, the reef was thriving with life. Highlights included sightings of a hog fish, eels, and lobsters. There were plenty of egg masses. The group also observed several species of parrotfish and other marine organisms that lingered just outside visibility range.
Particular care was taken not to disturb fragile corals or marine life during the cleanup process. The team used hand signals to coordinate movements and document notable observations. Christopher noted several healthy patches of staghorn coral with fresh growth, which was encouraging given the species’ vulnerable status.
The dive lasted approximately 62 minutes at a maximum depth of 26 feet. Upon surfacing, the group debriefed onshore, discussing both the marine life encounters and strategies for improving future conservation efforts. The collected debris was laid out and documented, with photographs taken for Out Scuba’s conservation outreach and education initiatives.
This World Ocean Day dive served not only as an effective cleanup but also as a reminder of the continued importance of community-driven conservation efforts. The Out Scuba team reaffirmed its commitment to protecting underwater ecosystems and fostering environmental awareness through inclusivity and action-oriented diving experiences.
As always, safety was a top priority, and the dive was completed without incident. Out Scuba thanks all participants for their teamwork, environmental dedication, and shared passion for ocean conservation.
Submitted by: Ken Gioeli. Photos and videos are Copyright 2025 Ken Gioeli. All rights reserved worldwide.