For those interested in exploring Abbey Too or similar dive sites in Pompano Beach, it’s advisable to check with local diving agencies for schedules, equipment needs, and safety guidelines.

Article at a Glance

• Location: Abbey Too is situated off the coast of Pompano Beach, Florida, known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
• Depth Range: Dives typically range from 30 to 60 feet (9 to 18 meters), making it accessible for both beginners and advanced divers.
• Visibility: Divers can expect visibility between 36 to 60 feet (11 to 18 meters), particularly during the warmer months.
• Marine Life: The site is home to a variety of species, including grouper, snapper, barracuda, moray eels, and lobsters, providing excellent opportunities for observation and photography.
• Best Time to Dive: The ideal diving conditions are generally found from late spring through summer (March to August) when water temperatures are warmest and visibility is best.
• Diving Experience: Abbey Too offers a relaxed reef and drift diving experience, making it suitable for novice divers while still engaging for experienced divers.
• Conservation Efforts: Ongoing environmental conservation initiatives focus on reef management, coral restoration, and community involvement to protect the marine ecosystem.

Abbey Too Pompano Beach

• Location: Pompano Beach, part of the outer reef system.
• Dive Type: Reef/Drift Dive.
• Depth: Ranges from 30 to 60 feet.

The site features a prominent western ledge that boasts the highest concentration of coral and marine life, making it an attractive spot for both novice and experienced divers.

• Diver Level: Suitable for Open Water divers.
• Typical Dive Plan: A common approach includes starting at either the north end hook or Rabbit Ear Pass and drifting along the main ledge. This route is recommended for scenic views and diverse underwater landscapes.

What Marine Life Can I Expect To See?

• Reef Fish: The site is home to various species, including grouper, snapper, and jacks. These fish are commonly spotted around the reef structures.
• Predatory Fish: Barracudas are often seen patrolling the waters, adding an element of thrill to the dive experience.
• Eels: Both moray eels and other types of eels can be found hiding in crevices and caves along the reef.
• Other Species: Look out for trumpetfish and spotfin drums, which add to the colorful underwater scene.
• Lobsters: These crustaceans are frequently found in the caves at the base of the reef, making them a target for divers interested in lobstering.

What Do Divers Say About This Site?

• Marine Life: Many divers appreciate the rich biodiversity at Abbey Too, noting sightings of various species such as grouper, snapper, and moray eels. The vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life contribute to a visually stunning underwater environment.
• Dive Conditions: Reviewers often mention the favorable conditions for both novice and experienced divers. The site offers shallow reef dives, making it accessible for beginners while still providing ample opportunities for seasoned divers to enjoy longer bottom times.
• Diving Operations: Divers frequently commend the professionalism and friendliness of the dive crews from local operations like South Florida Diving Headquarters. They highlight the crew’s attentiveness, safety measures, and ability to create a fun atmosphere onboard. Many divers express satisfaction with the organization of trips, including gear setup and dive briefings.
• Overall Experience: Testimonials indicate that divers feel comfortable and confident during their dives at Abbey Too. The positive reviews emphasize that the dive experience is enjoyable, with many stating they plan to return for future dives.

Key Information

Highlights of Diving This Site?

Scenic Underwater Landscape

• Coral Coverage: Abbey Too is known for its high concentration of coral and marine life, particularly on the western ledge, which provides a stunning backdrop for divers exploring the reef.
• Depth Range: The dive site typically ranges from 30 to 60 feet, making it accessible for divers of various skill levels, including beginners.

Diverse Marine Life

• Variety of Species: Divers can expect to see a wide range of marine creatures, including:
  • Reef Fish: Grouper, snapper, jacks, and barracuda.
  • Eels: Moray eels are commonly spotted among the reef structures.
  • Other Species: Trumpetfish and spotfin drums add to the diversity, while lobsters can often be found in the caves along the reef.

Drift Diving Experience

• Navigation: The dive typically begins at either the north end hook or Rabbit Ear Pass, allowing divers to drift along the main ledge. This method provides a relaxed diving experience where divers can enjoy the scenery without strenuous swimming.
• Second Dive Options: Many dive trips include a second dive at a nearby reef with similar characteristics, offering varied underwater experiences in one outing.

Accessibility and Safety

• Suitable for All Levels: The site is ideal for Open Water divers, making it a great choice for those looking to gain experience in a safe environment.
• Professional Operations: Local dive shops provide well-organized trips with experienced guides, ensuring safety and enjoyment throughout the dive.

Iconic Spots At This Site

Western Ledge

• Description: This is the main attraction of Abbey Too, known for its highest concentration of coral and marine life. The ledge provides stunning views and is a hotspot for divers seeking vibrant underwater scenery.
• Marine Life: Expect to see a variety of reef fish, including grouper, snapper, and jacks, along with barracudas and moray eels.

Rabbit Ear Pass

• Description: This entry point allows divers to start their dive and drift along the main ledge. It’s known for its scenic route, providing an excellent way to explore the reef’s beauty.
• Navigation: Depending on the current, divers may choose this pass to begin their adventure.

North End Hook

• Description: Another starting point for dives, this area offers access to the main ledge and is favored for its ease of navigation.
• Experience: Divers can drift along the reef, enjoying a relaxed dive while observing marine life.

Caves Along the Reef

• Description: The caves at Abbey Too are home to lobsters and various other marine species. These areas provide exciting opportunities for exploration and photography.
• Lobstering: For those interested in lobstering, these caves are prime spots to find lobsters hiding within.

Spur & Groove System

• Description: Located on the deeper side of the reef, this area is noted for its unique coral formations and is often explored by divers looking for a more adventurous dive.
• Marine Diversity: This spot enhances the chances of encountering different species due to its varied habitat structure.

Environmental Conservation Efforts at Abbey Too

Active Reef Management

• Monitoring Programs: Regular assessments of coral, fish populations, and water quality are conducted to track the health of the reef ecosystem. This data is vital for understanding trends and informing management decisions (1).
• Protection from Local Threats: Initiatives are in place to mitigate threats such as dredging, beach renourishment, and nutrient runoff. These actions aim to preserve the delicate balance of marine life and coral health (1)(4).

Coral Restoration Efforts

• Coral Propagation: Organizations like the Coral Restoration Foundation engage in coral propagation, where healthy coral fragments are grown in nurseries before being transplanted back onto damaged reefs. This method has proven effective in restoring coral populations along Florida’s reefs (5).
• Biological Restoration Techniques: Techniques such as micro-fragmentation are used to enhance coral resilience against climate change impacts, allowing corals to adapt better to warmer waters (1)(6).

Community Involvement

• Volunteer Programs: Local dive shops and conservation organizations often involve divers and community members in restoration efforts. Volunteers can participate in activities such as coral planting, monitoring reef health, and conducting fish surveys (5).
• Education and Outreach: Programs aimed at educating residents and visitors about responsible reef use help foster a culture of conservation. This includes promoting practices that reduce pollution and damage to marine habitats (1).

Collaborative Conservation Initiatives

• Partnerships for Sustainability: Collaborations between local governments, nonprofits, and community groups focus on sustainable management practices. These partnerships work towards reducing local drivers of degradation and enhancing the resilience of marine protected areas (1)(3).
• Global Support Networks: Initiatives like UNESCO’s Resilient Reefs Initiative provide frameworks for funding and implementing conservation strategies globally, which can also benefit local efforts at sites like Abbey Too (3).

Maximizing Your Diving Experience at Abbey Too

Pre-Dive Preparation

• Plan Your Dive: Before heading out, establish a clear plan with your dive buddy. Discuss the dive site, maximum depth, duration, and ascent procedures. Agree on signals and emergency protocols to ensure both divers are on the same page.
• Check Equipment: Conduct thorough equipment checks before diving. Ensure that all gear is functioning properly, including your buoyancy compensator and regulators. If renting equipment, inspect it as diligently as you would your own.

Breathing Techniques

• Breath Control: Practice controlled breathing techniques. Avoid holding your breath at any point during the dive, especially during ascents and descents. This helps prevent lung overexpansion injuries and optimizes gas exchange. Focus on slow, deep breaths to enhance relaxation and reduce air consumption.

Safety Measures

• Buddy System: Always dive with a buddy. This provides an extra layer of safety; you can assist each other in case of emergencies or equipment failures. Regularly check in with each other throughout the dive.
• Surface Marker Buoy: Carry a surface marker buoy (SMB) or delayed surface marker buoy (DSMB) to increase visibility to boats and other surface crafts, especially in busy areas.

Enjoying the Dive

• Explore Iconic Spots: Take time to explore key areas like the Western Ledge and Rabbit Ear Pass. These spots are known for their rich marine life and stunning coral formations, providing excellent opportunities for photography and observation.
• Stay Relaxed: Keep a calm demeanor while diving. Anxiety can lead to rapid breathing and increased air consumption. Focus on enjoying the underwater scenery and marine life around you.

Post-Dive Reflection

• Debrief: After the dive, discuss what went well and what could be improved with your buddy. This reflection can enhance future dives by addressing any issues encountered during the dive.

Capturing Memories at Abbey Too: Photography Tips

Getting Close to Your Subject

• Proximity Matters: One of the most critical rules in underwater photography is to get as close as possible to your subject, ideally within 1 meter (3 feet). This minimizes the amount of water between you and your subject, enhancing color and clarity in your images.
• Use a Wide-Angle Lens: If you have access to a fisheye lens, it allows you to get close while still capturing a broad view of the scene, which is especially beneficial for photographing coral reefs and marine life.

Lighting Techniques

• Utilize Natural Light: Take advantage of sunlight when possible. Shooting in shallow waters can yield beautiful results using only natural light. Position yourself so that the light is behind you for optimal color and visibility (6).
• Supplement with Strobes: If you’re diving deeper or in lower light conditions, consider using underwater strobes. They help illuminate your subject and bring out vibrant colors that may be lost in the blue hues of the water.

Composition and Angles

• Focus on Composition: Think about your composition before taking the shot. Use techniques like leading lines or framing to draw attention to your subject. Getting low and shooting from different angles can add depth to your images (6).
• Patience is Key: Underwater photography often requires waiting for the right moment. Be patient and observe marine life behavior to capture more natural and engaging images.

Camera Settings

• Manual Settings Familiarization: Know your camera settings well. Adjusting white balance is crucial to avoid green or blue hues in your photos. Practice using your camera’s underwater housing on land so you’re familiar with its controls when submerged.
• Avoid Overprocessing: While editing, keep adjustments minimal to maintain a natural look. Simple tweaks like adjusting white balance and dehazing can significantly enhance your photos without making them look artificial.

Respecting the Environment

• Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Familiarize yourself with the reef environment before capturing images. Avoid touching or disturbing marine life and coral, as this can harm delicate ecosystems (6).
• Be Mindful of Marine Life: When photographing animals, approach slowly and avoid sudden movements that may scare them away. This increases your chances of getting closer shots without disturbing their natural behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pompano Beach Dive Sites

• Pompano Trench
• Lost Ledge
• Suzzane’s Ledge
• Pompano 3rd Reef Ridge
• Steve’s Twin Ledges
• Shark Reef
• Touchdown Reef
• Pompano Drop Off
• Grouper Bend
• Nursery
• Crab Cove
• Sea Ranch
• Hillsboro Ledge
• Lighthouse Ledge
• Mark’s Ledge
• Moray Bend
• Nolan’s Ledge
• Separated Rocks (Deerfield)
• The Horseshoe
• Abbey Too
• San Remo
• Shark Ledge
• Spotfin Reef

Reference List

• (1) Experience the reef – Florida’s coral reef
• (2) Florida Reef Report
• (3) UNESCO launhes emergency plan
• (4) Global Coral Reef Alliance
• (5) Coral Regeneration Schemes
• (6) WAHOO BAY Education
• (7) How to photograph coral reefscapes