The Gilbert Sea is not only a site for recreational diving but also a location of historical and archaeological interest, reflecting the maritime history and the ecological transformation of the area.

Article at a Glance

• Location: The Gilbert Sea is located off the coast of Palm Beach, Florida, known for its vibrant marine life and clear waters.
• Diving Experience: The site offers diverse underwater landscapes, including coral reefs and artificial wrecks, making it suitable for divers of all skill levels.
• Marine Life: Divers can expect to encounter a variety of species, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional shark.
• Accessibility: The Gilbert Sea is easily accessible from local dive shops, which provide guided tours and rental equipment.
• Best Time to Dive: The prime diving season typically runs from late spring to early fall when water temperatures are warmer and visibility is at its best.
• Environmental Conservation: Efforts are in place to protect the marine ecosystem, promoting sustainable diving practices among visitors.
• Additional Activities: Beyond diving, the area offers snorkeling, boating, and opportunities for marine education and conservation programs.

Gilbert Sea Wreck Location Coordinates and Depth

Depth

The wreck lies at a depth of approximately 90 feet (about 27 meters) underwater.

Location Coordinates

The wreck of the Gilbert Sea is located at the following coordinates:

• Latitude: 26° 45.191′ N
• Longitude: 80° 00.622′ W

What to Scuba Divers Say About This Wreck

• Marine Life Habitat: The wreck has become a thriving habitat for game and tropical fish, attracting divers who appreciate the vibrant underwater ecosystem. The wreck is rapidly becoming overgrown with coral and algae, enhancing its appeal for underwater exploration and photography.
• Diving Experience: Divers describe the Gilbert Sea wreck as an interesting site due to its structure and the marine life surrounding it. The wreck’s condition, with twisted hulls and collapsed superstructures, offers a unique underwater landscape that divers find engaging.
• Accessibility: Located in the Governor’s River Walk area, the Gilbert Sea wreck is accessible for both novice and experienced divers, making it a popular choice for those looking to explore shipwrecks in Florida.

What Kind of Marine Life Can Be Found on The Wreck

• Fish Species: The wreck is home to a diverse array of fish, including:
  • Goliath Grouper: These large fish are often seen around the wreck, particularly during their spawning season.
  • Snapper: Various species of snapper can be found, adding to the colorful underwater scenery.
  • Angelfish: Known for their striking colors, angelfish are commonly spotted.
  • Moray Eels: These eels often inhabit the crevices of the wreck, providing divers with an exciting sight.
  • Kingfish: A popular game fish that can be seen in the area.
• Invertebrates: The wreck also supports a variety of invertebrates, such as:
  • Lobster: Often hiding in the structure, lobsters are a common sight for divers.
  • Stingrays: These can be seen gliding along the sandy bottom near the wreck.
  • Stone Crabs and Hermit Crabs: These crustaceans are part of the diverse marine life present.
• Coral and Algae: The wreck is rapidly becoming overgrown with coral and algae, creating a rich ecosystem that attracts many fish and other marine organisms. This growth not only enhances the visual appeal of the wreck but also provides shelter and food for various species.

Key Information

What Makes Gilbert Sea a Unique Diving Experience

• Artificial Reef: The wreck has transformed into an artificial reef, fostering a diverse marine ecosystem. It attracts a variety of fish species, including goliath grouper, snapper, and moray eels, making it a lively site for divers.
• Ecological Growth: The rapid overgrowth of coral and algae on the wreck enhances its beauty and ecological significance. This growth not only provides shelter and food for marine life but also creates an engaging environment for divers to explore.
• Accessibility: Located in the Governor’s River Walk area, the Gilbert Sea wreck is accessible to both novice and experienced divers, which broadens its appeal as a dive destination.
• Underwater Landscape: The wreck’s twisted hull and collapsed superstructure create an intriguing underwater landscape, offering divers a unique opportunity to navigate through and around the remnants of the ship.

What is The Full History of This Wreck

Construction and Early Years

• Built in 1966: The Gilbert Sea was originally constructed as the Geulborg by Scheepswerf Gebroeders Sanderat in Delfzijl, Netherlands. It measured 175.8 feet in length and 28.7 feet in width, with a displacement of 529 tons.
• Ownership Changes: Initially operated by E. Wagenborg’s Scheepvaart, the vessel changed hands several times. In 1977, it was sold to Taylor Corporation, Limited of Nassau, Bahamas, and renamed Miranda. It was later sold to a Honduran company and reflagged, undergoing several name changes, including Paradie Express in 1996, El Compain in 1999, and finally Gilbert Sea later that year.

Involvement in Drug Smuggling

• Seizure by Authorities: On June 4, 2001, during “Operation Riverwalk,” the U.S. Customs Service and Coast Guard intercepted the Gilbert Sea. They discovered 74 pounds of cocaine hidden in various locations aboard the ship, including inside paint cans and a false-bottomed oil drum.
• Forfeiture and Sinking: Following the seizure, the vessel was forfeited and sold to Palm Beach County for use as an artificial reef. It was sunk on March 17, 2002, in approximately 90 feet of water, becoming part of the Governor’s River Walk Reef.

Current Status and Diving Appeal

• Wreck Condition: The Gilbert Sea, along with three other confiscated vessels, has been significantly impacted by hurricanes, which have caused structural damage. The wreck features a twisted hull and a collapsed superstructure, with the bow resting on its starboard side and the stern listing to port.
• Diving Experience: Despite its damaged state, the wreck offers a unique diving experience. The site has become a vibrant habitat for marine life, attracting divers interested in exploring the underwater ecosystem and the wreck’s intriguing structure. The proximity to the Gulf Stream often results in excellent visibility and diverse marine encounters, including sightings of goliath grouper, sea turtles, and various species of fish.

What Historical Features Can Still Be Identified on Wreck

Structural Remnants

• Twisted Hull: The hull of the Gilbert Sea is notably twisted and damaged, which can be attributed to the impact of hurricanes since it was sunk. This provides a unique underwater landscape for divers.
• Collapsed Superstructure: The superstructure of the ship has collapsed, revealing parts of the wooden deck and other structural elements. This collapse adds to the wreck’s character and offers divers a glimpse into the ship’s original design.
• Bow and Stern Orientation: The bow of the Gilbert Sea rests on its starboard side, while the stern lists to port. This position provides an interesting angle for exploration and photography.

Artifacts and Features

• Wheelhouse Remains: The remains of the wheelhouse are visible, providing insight into the navigation and control mechanisms of the vessel.
• Cargo Holds: The cargo holds have been flattened but are still discernible, allowing divers to imagine the ship’s operational history and the types of goods it may have transported.

Marine Life Interaction

• Artificial Reef Status: The wreck serves as an artificial reef, which has led to significant marine life colonization. This interaction between the wreck and marine organisms creates a dynamic environment that divers can observe.

Historical Context

• Significance of Sinking: The Gilbert Sea was sunk on March 17, 2002, after being seized for drug smuggling. Its history as a smuggling vessel adds a layer of intrigue to the wreck, as it is part of a collection of vessels confiscated for similar reasons.

What Safety Measures Are in Place for Divers Visiting Gilbert Sea

Pre-Dive Preparations

• Health Checks: Divers should assess their fitness to dive, considering any medical conditions, especially cardiac health. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if there are any concerns about fitness for diving.
• Equipment Inspection: Before diving, divers must check their gear to ensure that all equipment is functioning properly. This includes regulators, tanks, buoyancy control devices, and wetsuits.

Dive Planning

• Plan Your Dive: Divers should plan their dive carefully, including depth, time, and potential hazards. Understanding the local conditions, such as tides and currents, is crucial for safety.
• Buddy System: Diving should always be done with a buddy. This enhances safety, as divers can assist each other in case of emergencies.

During the Dive

• Use of Surface Marker Buoys: Carrying a surface marker buoy (SMB) or delayed surface marker buoy (DSMB) is recommended to increase visibility to boats and other surface craft.
• Monitoring Conditions: Divers should remain aware of their surroundings, including marine life and changing conditions. Staying within the limits of their training and experience is essential to avoid accidents.

Emergency Preparedness

• Communication Devices: Divers should consider carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) or similar device to call for help if needed. This can be crucial in emergencies.
• Post-Dive Procedures: After diving, divers should be aware of the signs of decompression sickness and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms. It is also advised to avoid flying for a specified period after diving to prevent complications.

Dive Shops That Provide Diving Trips to This Shipwreck

• El Mar Diving Center
  • Rating: 4.7
  • Address: 2245 W Broadway Rd, Mesa, AZ 85202
• Cyborg Pirate
  • Rating: 5.0
  • Address: 40202 N 87th Ave, Peoria, AZ 85383
• Saguaro Scuba
  • Rating: 4.8
  • Address: 908 E Impala Ave, Mesa, AZ 85204
• The Scuba Shop
  • Rating: 4.8
  • Address: 1122 S Greenfield Rd Suite 104, Mesa, AZ 85206