Tenneco Towers, also known as the Tenneco Oil Platforms, is a renowned dive site located off the coast of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This artificial reef was created in 1985 when five decommissioned oil platforms were sunk to enhance marine life and provide recreational diving opportunities.

Article at a Glance

• Location: Tenneco Towers is situated off the coast of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and consists of decommissioned oil platforms transformed into an artificial reef.
• Depth Range: The dive site features platforms at depths of 60 feet, 80 feet, and 100 feet, with deeper structures reaching up to 200 feet for technical divers.
• Skill Level: Advanced Open Water Diver certification is required due to the depths and potential currents, making it best suited for experienced divers.
• Marine Life: Divers can expect to see a diverse array of marine species, including barracudas, bull sharks, angelfish, hogfish, and vibrant coral formations.
• Visibility: Visibility typically ranges from 10 to 30 meters (33 to 98 feet), with the best conditions often occurring in summer months.
• Best Time to Dive: Late spring through early fall offers the most favorable conditions for diving, including warmer water temperatures and better visibility.
• Safety Considerations: Divers should be aware of strong currents, dive with a buddy, and monitor their air supply throughout the dive.

Dive Site Overview

• Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Depth: Ranges from approximately 60 feet (18 meters) to 130 feet (40 meters) across the platforms.
• Accessibility: Accessible only by boat, with charters available from local dive shops.
• Skill Level: Suitable for advanced open water divers and deep diver specialists due to varying depths and potential strong currents.

Features

• Structure: The site consists of three main platforms that are within recreational diving limits, while two deeper structures cater to more experienced divers. The top decks of the accessible platforms are at depths of 60, 80, and 100 feet.
• Marine Life: Divers can expect to see a diverse array of marine life, including barracudas, bull sharks, amberjacks, lionfish, turtles, and various species of reef fish. The area is rich in coral and sponge formations.
• Visibility: Average visibility ranges from 10 to 30 meters (approximately 33 to 98 feet), with conditions varying based on weather and tides.

Diving Conditions

Safety Requirements: Divers are advised to carry personal dive gear, including audible and visual surface signals. Certification cards and dive insurance are also recommended for safety.

Current: Strong currents can occur depending on tidal conditions, making it essential for divers to be aware and prepared.

What Marine Life Can I Expect To See?

• Reef Fish:
  • Angelfish
  • Hogfish
  • Lionfish
• Pelagic Fish:
  • Barracuda
  • Tuna
  • Mackerel
• Sharks:
  • Bull Sharks
• Other Marine Animals:
  • Turtles
• Coral and Invertebrates:
  • Various species of hard and soft corals
  • Multiple types of sponges

What Do Divers Say About This Site?

Positive Aspects

• Rich Marine Life: Many divers rave about the diverse marine ecosystem, including sightings of barracudas, bull sharks, and various reef fish like angelfish and hogfish. The presence of colorful corals and sponges adds to the underwater beauty, making it an excellent site for photography and exploration.
• Artificial Reef Structure: The platforms themselves are considered fascinating dive sites. Divers appreciate the artificial reef’s design, which attracts a wide range of marine species, enhancing the diving experience.
• Accessibility: The site is accessible by boat and is suitable for divers with varying skill levels, although more advanced divers are encouraged to explore deeper areas. This accessibility makes it a popular choice for dive charters in the region.

Considerations

• Strong Currents: Some divers caution about the strong currents that can occur depending on tidal conditions. This aspect requires divers to be mindful of their experience level and preparedness when diving at Tenneco Towers.
• Depth Variability: While three of the platforms are within recreational diving limits, the deeper structures require advanced certifications. This variability in depth can be a consideration for dive planning.

Key Information

Highlights of Diving This Site?

• Artificial Reef Structure: Tenneco Towers consists of five decommissioned oil platforms that were sunk to create an artificial reef in 1985. The platforms are positioned at depths ranging from 60 to over 200 feet, providing diverse diving experiences for both recreational and technical divers.
• Rich Marine Life: Divers can expect to see a vibrant array of marine species, including:
  • Reef Fish: Angelfish, hogfish, and lionfish.
  • Pelagic Fish: Barracudas, tunas, and mackerels.
  • Sharks: Bull sharks and other species.
  • Turtles: Common sightings of sea turtles among the coral formations.
• Coral and Invertebrates: The area is home to a variety of hard and soft corals, as well as numerous sponges, making it an excellent spot for underwater photography and exploration.
• Visibility: Average visibility ranges from 10 to 30 meters (approximately 33 to 98 feet), with optimal conditions often allowing for clearer views of the marine life and structures.
• Diverse Diving Options: The site caters to various diving preferences, including wreck dives and drift dives. Three platforms are within recreational limits (60, 80, and 100 feet), while two deeper platforms are suited for advanced divers.
• Strong Currents: While the site is accessible, divers should be aware of potential strong currents depending on tidal conditions. This aspect adds an element of challenge and excitement but requires proper preparation and experience.

Iconic Spots At This Site

• West Tenneco:
  • Depth: Approximately 60 feet (18 meters).
  • Description: This platform is the first one divers typically encounter. It features a variety of marine life and is suitable for recreational divers.
• East Tenneco:
  • Depth: Approximately 80 feet (24 meters).
  • Description: Similar to West Tenneco, this platform is rich in coral and marine species, providing excellent opportunities for underwater photography.
• Deep Tenneco:
  • Depth: Ranges from 100 to 130 feet (30 to 40 meters).
  • Description: These platforms are for more advanced divers. The deeper structures provide a chance to see larger pelagic species and unique underwater formations.
• The Slanting Platforms:
  • Description: Some platforms have tilted due to Hurricane Andrew, creating interesting angles for exploration and unique diving experiences.
• Marine Life Hotspots:
  • Areas around the platforms are known for abundant marine life, including barracudas, bull sharks, and various reef fish. Divers often find themselves surrounded by vibrant schools of fish, making these spots particularly memorable.

Environmental Conservation Efforts at Tenneco Towers

• Creation of an Artificial Reef: In 1985, Tenneco Oil Company donated the decommissioned oil platforms to the Broward County Artificial Reef Program. This initiative aimed to enhance marine habitats and promote biodiversity by sinking the platforms off the coast of Hallandale Beach, Florida. The platforms now serve as a habitat for a variety of marine species, effectively turning a site of industrial activity into a sanctuary for marine life.
• Habitat Restoration: The platforms have become home to diverse marine life, including various species of fish, corals, and invertebrates. The structures provide shelter and breeding grounds, which are crucial for maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. This restoration contributes to the overall health of the ocean environment by supporting biodiversity.
• Sustainable Diving Practices: Dive operators at Tenneco Towers promote environmentally friendly practices among divers. For instance, they encourage the use of reef-safe sunscreens to protect coral reefs from harmful chemicals commonly found in traditional sunscreens 2. Additionally, divers are educated on responsible diving practices that minimize impact on the marine environment.
• Monitoring and Research: Ongoing monitoring and research efforts help assess the health of the reef and its inhabitants. These initiatives can inform future conservation strategies and ensure that the artificial reef continues to thrive as a habitat for marine life.
• Community Engagement: Local dive shops and conservation organizations often engage with the community to raise awareness about marine conservation issues related to artificial reefs. This includes educational programs that highlight the importance of protecting marine environments and promoting sustainable practices among divers and beachgoers.

Maximizing Your Diving Experience at Tenneco Towers

Planning Your Dive

• Choose the Right Dive Shop: Select a reputable dive shop that offers trips to Tenneco Towers. Options include American Dream Dive Charters and Sea Experience, both known for their knowledgeable crews and well-maintained equipment.
• Understand the Dive Conditions: Familiarize yourself with the typical conditions at Tenneco Towers, including depth (ranging from 60 to 130 feet) and potential strong currents depending on tides. This information is crucial for planning your dive.
• Certification Requirements: Ensure you have the appropriate certification. Advanced Open Water Diver or Deep Diver certifications are typically required due to the depths involved.

What to Expect Underwater

• Explore Multiple Platforms: The site features three main platforms at accessible depths (60, 80, and 100 feet), allowing divers to explore various levels. Start at the top and work your way down to discover marine life in each section.
• Marine Life Sightings: Be on the lookout for a diverse range of marine species, including:
  • Reef Fish: Angelfish, hogfish, and lionfish.
  • Pelagic Fish: Barracudas, tunas, and bull sharks.
  • Corals and Sponges: Various hard and soft corals create a vibrant underwater landscape.
• Lionfish Hunting: If you’re interested in conservation efforts, consider bringing a pole spear to hunt lionfish, which are invasive in the area. This adds an exciting challenge to your dive while helping protect local ecosystems.

Safety Tips

• Dive with a Buddy: Always dive with a partner for safety. Ensure you have audible and visual surface signals for emergencies.
• Monitor Your Air Supply: Keep an eye on your air consumption throughout the dive, especially when exploring deeper areas.
• Use Dive Planning Resources: Consider using Reef Smart Cards or dive guidebooks specific to the Fort Lauderdale area to enhance your navigation and understanding of the site.

Post-Dive Activities

• Share Your Experience: After your dives, engage with fellow divers or share your experiences on social media. Many dive shops encourage this community interaction, which can enhance your diving network.

Capturing Memories at Tenneco Towers: Photography Tips

Choose the Right Equipment

• Camera and Housing: Use a reliable underwater camera with a sturdy housing. DSLRs or mirrorless cameras are preferred for their image quality and versatility.
• Lenses: Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing expansive underwater scenes and marine life. Consider fisheye lenses for dramatic perspectives.

Understand Lighting Conditions

• Natural Light: Take advantage of natural light, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer. Adjust your settings to accommodate changing light conditions as you descend.
• Strobes: If using strobes, position one above water and one below to avoid reflections and ensure even lighting on your subject. Experiment with strobe power to avoid overexposure, especially in shallow areas where light is abundant.

Master Composition Techniques

• Vertical Orientation: Shooting in a vertical orientation can help include both underwater subjects and the surface, creating dynamic split-frame images. This approach also allows more flexibility in framing your shots.
• Focus on the Subject: Set your focus point on the subject rather than the waterline to avoid focusing issues, especially when shooting close-ups of marine life.

Utilize Your Surroundings

• Explore the Structures: The Tenneco Towers provide various nooks and crannies filled with marine life. Take time to explore different angles and perspectives around the platforms.
• Capture Marine Life: Look for vibrant schools of fish, turtles, and other marine creatures that inhabit the towers. Be patient and ready to capture candid moments as they swim by.

Adjust Settings for Optimal Results

• Shutter Speed: Use a fast shutter speed to freeze motion, especially when photographing active marine life like fish or sharks.
• ISO Settings: Increase your ISO in low-light conditions but be cautious of noise in your images. Aim for a balance that maintains image quality while allowing you to capture details.

Post-Dive Review

• Review Your Shots: After each dive, review your images to assess what worked well and what didn’t. This practice helps you adjust your technique for future dives.
• Editing: Utilize photo editing software to enhance colors and contrast, bringing out the vibrant hues of underwater scenes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fort Lauderdale Dives Sites

• Twin Ledges
• Hammerhead Reef
• Barracuda Reef
• First Reef Line
• Second Reef Line
• Third Reef Line
• Yellow Brick Road
• Perry Street Rocks
• Rapa Nui Reef
• Osborne Reef
• Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
• Reef Hall of Fame
• Reef Erojax (The Jax)
• Oakland Ridge
• Tenneco Towers
• The Caves
• Turtle Beach Reef
• Pompano Dropoff
• Seahorse Reef
• Lobster Ledge
• The Wall
• The Jungle Gym
• Antenna Reef
• Coral Gardens