Amaryllis

Amaryllis

Palm Beach Dive Sites

Built in 1945 by Burard DD. Co., Ltd., Vancouver, the Amaryllis was originally named Cromwell Park. This steel freighter was 440 feet long and had a 57 foot beam. In 1948 she was sold to Kydoniefs in Greece and in 1965 was unfortunate to run aground on Singer Island, Riviera Beach during Hurricane Betsy. (Photo courtesy of Palm Beach County)

West Palm Beach – Wreck Diving

Just 3 years later in 1968 the Amaryllis was sunk in 80 feet of water to enhance the charter fishing industry in West Palm Beach and forms part of the artificial reef program in this area. Before sinking she was stripped of her superstructure and after many years resting on the sandy bottom all that remains is the twisted hull and lower deck.

Over the years this wreck has developed some great coral growth and has attracted many forms of marine life. As is typical with many wrecks in this area you can expect to see barracuda drifting in the current, Atlantic spadefish, grunts (especially tomtate and porkfish), and many others.

What is left of the wreck is now very deep in silt so it is wise to try and not disturb the site when you are diving as the strong currents and silt can quickly deteriorate the visibility if you are not careful and with plenty to explore and find such as the moray eels you will want to thoroughly explore this site.

West Palm Beach Scuba Videos

One of the attractions of West Palm Beach scuba diving is that you will be able to take underwater photographs or underwater videos such as the one below. With excellent light and clear waters you will be able to get some excellent shots.

This video was taken at West Palm Beach and it gives you an idea of what to expect when diving the numerous wrecks around West Palm Beach such as the Amaryllis, Mizpah and PC1170. (Press the button second right on the bottom of the video player to see it in full screen)…

Terence’s Log

You will usually visit this wreck as part of a drift dive. West Palm Beach diving centers will drift dive this site together with the Mizpah and PC1170 giving you the opportunity to see and explore 3 wrecks on one drift dive. Talk about value for money!

At only 80 feet you get reasonable bottom time and visibility is usually good. The area is also made up of lime rock boulders providing a great habitat for the marine life.