Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association members and Florida Wildlife Commission produced a report that assessed the impact on the reefs. They found that the Varmar reef, which isn't shown on our dive map as it's off Mexico Beach), had suffered the most damage since it was in 25 feet of water. Only 35% of original reef material was left. The artificial reefs in shallow and medium water remained unaffected. Below is an illustration from that report which shows the path the hurricane took through the wrecks, reefs, and beaches of Panama City Beach.
Historic wrecks are scattered throughout the region. Because of these and so many other artificial reefs in the area, Skin Diver Magazine dubbed Panama City Beach the "Wreck Diving Capital of the South."
We teach Technical Scuba Classes starting at TDI. Technical Divers can go far beyond recreational diving. Technical Divers can go deeper, further, above the waterline, and use more exotic gas combinations to control narcosis. If you're an experienced diver, and wish to see the deepest end of the pool. This is how to get there. Our services include Introto Tech, Advanced Nitrox & Deco Procedures as well as Trimix, Advanced Trimix and other options. We have the perfect class for you if you are looking for a fun class taught by an expert in the field with the highest quality gear and fully inclusive pricing.
She is a three-story vessel, with incredible amounts of marine life already living there. As of our last visit, you could still spot the "Happy Holidays", unidentified townsfolk on her deck for all cars passing by the bridge.
Seas around Panama City Beach depend more on the wave interval than the absolute size. Long interval waves create rollers, while short interval waves make the boat rock up and down and divers are hard to spot in the water.
You can expect visibility between 30'-50' with water temperatures ranging from the 60s in winter and 80s in summer. You should bring gloves for the sharp edges on the wrecks, a dive knife in case you run into some fishing line, and a safety sausage since you’re on a boat trip.
Spearfishing, which is underwater bow hunting, is basically what it sounds like. It isn't difficult or easy to master, but it's also more addictive than crack. This may be the best option for you if your goal is to have clean, ethical, nonindustrial protein. We offer charters to experienced spearfishers, as well as Intro to Spearfishing classes. Here we show you how to dive and teach the basics.
Never hold your breath
As every good entry-level dive student knows, this is the most important rule of scuba. And for good reason — breath holding underwater can result in serious injury and even death. In accordance with Boyle's law, the air in a diver's lungs expands during ascent and contracts during descent.
As you become a qualified scuba diver, you learn the basics of an essential scuba system. A cylinder, weights, an exposure suit, regulators, BCD gauge and timing device, mask and fins are the bare essentials.