Poetry in Motion

Drifting Along with South Florida Diveing Headquarters in Pompano

Ten eager divers gathered on a golden South Florida afternoon, ready to answer the ocean’s call and ride the warm currents of Pompano Beach. With water a balmy 88°, seas at a playful 2–3 feet, and a steady northbound drift, the stage was set for an unforgettable day beneath the waves.

^{Divers (from left): Carl Manzelli, John Davis, Rachel Davis, Angelica Cookson, Rudy Lopez, Ralph Doerner, Susan Mitchell, Cheri Craft, Dan Berry, Federico Quintana, Jay Abbazia, Terry Longmore.}  

Dive 1 - Turtle Ledge

The first splash of the day brought the group down to the edge of Turtle Ledge, where a gentle current guided everyone along a series of ridges and sandy channels between 75 and 85 feet. Clouds of blue chromis hovered above the reef while porkfish, grunts, and yellowtail snapper darted among the coral formations. As per its namesake, a large loggerhead made an appearance, disappearing into the blue as quickly as it had appeared. Near the end of the dive, a nurse shark cruised along, seemingly unfazed by its visitors.

Dive 2 - Touchdown Reef

After a short surface interval, the divers descended once more, this time onto the colorful landscape of Touchdown Reef. Visibility stretched well beyond 50 feet, revealing a vibrant world of sea fans, barrel sponges, and coral-covered ledges between 35 and 50 feet. Lionfish dotted the site as the group swept past curious squirrelfish peering out from their daytime hiding places and schools of snappers hanging in unison under the ledges. The highlight of the dive came when a curious sea turtle drifted effortlessly overhead before settling onto the reef to rest. As the group slowly ascended, they were treated to a group of large midnight parrotfish darting over the top of the reef. A perfect end to a beautiful dive.