Reef
Report
Saturday,
September 28
Islamorada with Key Dives
Dive 1:
Davie Crocker Reef. The seas waves
were approximately 2’ to 3’ in height and the day
was sunny with the water temperature being 85
degrees. On the way out to the first dive sight the
vessel Captain spotted a pod of Dolphins consisting
of approximately 15 to 20 animals. The Captain
attracted their attention by circling the boat at a
safe distance around the pod, creating an interest
in the vessel's wake. The pod began entertaining
themselves and us by displaying their skills in wake
jumping. After the trip appetizer was concluded we
finally arrived at the first dive sight. Upon
descending, the reef was located at the bow line of
the boat and surrounding area. The visibility was
approximately 30 feet and a mild current was noted
at depth (25’ depth). The 11 divers followed the
crew’s instructions on how to dive the reef. Divers
reported seeing multiple Nurse Sharks, Moray Eels,
Groupers, Snappers, lobsters, and abundance of
Yellow Tail. .
Dive 2: Captain Arnos Reef. The
travel to a second area was short allowing the
divers time to change cylinders and gear up. Upon
descending an immense amount of Yellow Tails,
snappers and extremely large Parrot Fish were
observed throughout the reef. In some areas so much
sea life was encountered that the rock formation was
blanketed by the abundance of fish. Additionally,
the dive brought many pleasant surprises, numerous
large Moray Eels, large Nurse Sharks with multiple
nurses resting together under the crevasses. The
second dive’s visibility and water temperature was
the same as the first dive. No current was detected
on the second dive and the maximum depth was 30’
feet. On the second dive some of the ADA divers
coincidentally grouped together subsequently sharing
the encounters, enhancing the afternoon dive
experiences.
Amaury Cruz (ADA Member) utilized his underwater
photographic talents, and captured many of our
encounters. He posted on Facebook a series of
remarkable photos, for all to enjoy. If you have
some time don’t miss his posts, you won't be
disappointed.
Last but not least, Key Dives was a gracious host.
They traveled to multiple reef sights searching for
the best dive experience for their customers. The
original scheduled site's visibility was poor due to
the previous week's high winds. Thank You Key Dives
for your professionalism and attentiveness to your
customers.
-- Active
Divers Safety Officer Mo Smith |
|
