Spiegel Grove – "Sinkaversary" Celebration

Double Dip of the Spiegel Grove with Horizon Divers

Dive 1&2: Spiegel Grove
With seas gently rolling at 1–3 feet and a warm water temperature of 83°F, conditions were nearly perfect as our dive group headed out under brilliant blue skies. Visibility was a solid 60 feet, and a light to medium current added just enough drift to keep things interesting. We moored at Buoy #6, poised above the iconic Spiegel Grove, a massive wreck resting at 130 feet on the sandy bottom.
This wasn’t just any dive—it was a celebration. On May 17th, 2002, the Spiegel Grove was intentionally sunk to become an artificial reef, and we were fortunate enough to mark its 23rd anniversary beneath the waves—its “sinkaversary.” Spirits were high as each buddy team dropped down to explore this legendary site, buzzing with anticipation.
As we descended onto the colossal structure, we weren’t the only ones attending the party. A couple of reef sharks glided by to welcome us—one clearly pregnant, adding an extra thrill to the encounter. Large, silvery permit swirled around the starboard side, dancing in the currents, while curious groupers and watchful barracudas joined the scene. The wreck teemed with life, as if the ocean itself was celebrating.
After a relaxed surface interval, our crew was ready for round two. The second dive offered a new layer of adventure. While some opted to venture deeper into the ship’s mysterious interior, most of the action unfolded in the blue surrounding the wreck.
Schools of jacks shimmered like liquid metal as they streamed past, moving in perfect synchronization. Sleek barracudas hovered in the shadows, eyes keen and unblinking. The reef sharks returned, weaving through the water with effortless grace, casually inspecting their strange, bubble-blowing visitors.

A Day to Remember
It’s hard to beat a day like this—stellar conditions, abundant marine life, and the chance to be part of a living legacy. Celebrating the 23rd anniversary of the Spiegel Grove's descent to the ocean floor made this already iconic dive site feel even more magical. It was more than just a couple of dives—it was a deep-sea birthday party, and we were lucky enough to be invited.

_{Fabian Lago, Jean Gruss, Bruce Garber, Rudy Lopez, Juliana Bach, Sam Bochenek, Aaron Brooks, Leah Bamford, Vittorio Lacagnina, Jessica Bochenek, Roger Bach(not pictured)}

_{"Sheila" the Pregnant Reef Shark. Photo by Leah Bamford}

_{American Fish Flag. Photo by Rudy Lopez}

_{Two Large Permits . Photo by Jean Gruss}

_{Fabian Lago traversing the passage. Photo by Jean Gruss}