Diving near Ft. Lauderdale

Hello,

I will be in Ft. Lauderdale in late May for a conference, and wanted to know what the locals think is the best diving one can do nearby. I'm thinking of doing just a single 2 tank dive excursion, and would prefer something relatively close to the Greater Fort Lauderdale-Broward County Convention Center that I could take a taxi or bus to the dive boat, rather than renting a car, if that's possible.

I'm interested in any type of diving that has nice viz and animal life. Dive experiences that are unique to florida are highly desirable as well. (Where are the manatees? What about freshwater sinkholes/caves?)

Thanks a bunch in advance for any suggestions! Happy to return the favor if any of you come out to Southern California!

Right across the street from the convention center is the Hyatt Pier 66 and in the hotel's marina is the American Dream 2 which is an excellent charter.

convenient! Thanks a bunch.

What's the viz and water temp like in late may off Ft. Lauderdale?

dgalvan123:

convenient! Thanks a bunch.

What's the viz and water temp like in late may off Ft. Lauderdale?

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Water temps should be in the 78-80 degree range by May and viz will depend entirely on the conditions. Good days you will see 50-80 foot viz no problem. Also, as Deepstops said, American Dream is a very good dive op, you will enjoy diving with them.

The manatee "hotspot" is Crystal River, FL. The best operator to use there is Bird's Underwater IMO. I'm not so sure the manatee trips are as good in May compared to wintertime though.