Carried by the Current

Riviera Drift with Ocean Quest Scuba

Ten eager divers gathered on a golden South Florida afternoon, ready to answer the ocean’s call and ride the warm currents of Riviera 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): Mark Jacyna, Angelica Cookson, Ralph Doerner, Steve Potavnic, Brian McDermott , Jean Gruss, Rudy Lopez, Roger Bach, Gabriel Mera, Cheryl Craft} 

Dive 1 - South Two Ledges

With the captain’s rallying cry of “Dive! Dive! Dive!” the group splashed in and descended into the blue, settling between 70–90 feet on a stunning dual-ledge reef. The current carried them effortlessly along walls teeming with life: schools of shimmering yellowtail snappers, curious angelfish, and the occasional green moray peering from its rocky hideout. Special treats awaited the sharp-eyed—an adorable juvenile boxfish, and toward the end, a hawksbill turtle hanging casually along the lower ledge, a reminder of just how magical these waters can be.

Dive 2 - The Trench

For the second act, the team descended onto one of Riviera’s most unique sites: The Trench. Originally carved for undersea cables (most of which missed their mark and now rest scattered across the reef), the trench itself forms a natural corridor at 60 feet. It offered divers a break from the current, inviting them to explore both sides with ease. Massive channel crabs lurked in shadowy crevices, while colorful sponges and elegant sea fans lined the walls. Despite visibility dropping to about 30 feet, adventure was around every corner. The highlight? A couple of divers uncovered an old dive weight pocket—beneath it, a tiny juvenile octopus darted out, a fleeting but thrilling encounter.