The Thozina serves not only as a diving attraction but also as a testament to the transformation of maritime vessels over the years, from commercial shipping to an artificial reef that supports marine biodiversity and recreational diving experiences.

Article at a Glance

• Location: The Thozina wreck is situated off the coast of Palm Beach, Florida, making it a popular dive site for both novice and experienced divers.
• History: The Thozina was a 174-foot freighter that sank in 1983 during a storm, adding historical significance to the dive experience.
• Depth: The wreck lies at a depth of approximately 90 feet, providing a thrilling dive for those looking to explore underwater structures.
• Marine Life: Divers can expect to encounter a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish, coral formations, and possibly larger species like sharks and rays.
• Dive Conditions: The site typically offers good visibility and moderate currents, making it accessible for divers of varying skill levels.
• Dive Charters: Several local dive shops offer charter services to the Thozina wreck, providing guided tours and equipment rentals for convenience.
• Conservation Efforts: The wreck is part of ongoing conservation efforts to promote marine ecosystems, highlighting the importance of preserving underwater habitats.

Thozina Wreck Location Coordinates and Depth

Depth

The wreck rests at a maximum depth of 90 feet (approximately 27 meters) in the Governor’s River Walk Reef off Palm Beach, Florida.

Location Coordinates

The wreck of the Thozina is located at the following coordinates:

• Latitude: 26° 45.10′ N
• Longitude: 80° 00.590′ W

What to Scuba Divers Say About This Wreck

• Diverse Marine Life: Divers frequently encounter a variety of marine species at the Thozina wreck, including Goliath grouper, sea turtles, rays, and sharks. The presence of such large resident marine life enhances the diving experience significantly.
• Wreck Condition: Although the wreck has been impacted by hurricanes, which have caused structural changes, it still offers an exciting exploration opportunity. The wreck’s condition allows for exploration of various sections, making it an engaging dive for both novice and experienced divers.
• Part of a Wreck Trek: The Thozina is part of the Governor’s River Walk Reef, which includes several other wrecks. This proximity allows divers to explore multiple sites in one trip, making it a popular destination for those looking to experience multiple wreck dives in a single outing.
• Scenic Underwater Environment: The underwater landscape around the wreck is described as vibrant and teeming with life, providing a visually stunning environment for divers.

What Kind of Marine Life Can Be Found on The Wreck

• Goliath Grouper: These large fish are often seen around the wreck, particularly during their spawning season from August to September.
• Sea Turtles: Various species of sea turtles frequent the area, adding to the biodiversity of the site.
• Rays: Divers often encounter different types of rays gliding through the waters near the wreck.
• Sharks: The site is known for sightings of sharks, including lemon sharks, which are common in the region.

Key Information

What Makes Thozina a Unique Diving Experience

• Artificial Reef Ecosystem: As part of the Governor’s River Walk Reef, the Thozina contributes to a vibrant artificial reef ecosystem that attracts a diverse array of marine life. Divers can observe large resident species such as Goliath grouper, sea turtles, rays, and sharks, enhancing the underwater experience.
• Multi-Wreck Exploration: The Thozina is located near other wrecks, allowing divers to explore multiple sites in one dive trip. This proximity to other wrecks creates a diverse diving environment where divers can enjoy different underwater landscapes and marine life interactions.
• Historical Significance: The Thozina has an intriguing history, having been originally launched in 1957 and serving various roles before being scuttled in 2002. Understanding its past adds a layer of interest for divers who appreciate maritime history.
• Dynamic Underwater Environment: The wreck has been significantly impacted by hurricanes, which has altered its structure and created new areas for marine life to inhabit. This dynamic environment offers divers the chance to explore and witness how nature reclaims and transforms man-made structures.

What is The Full History of This Wreck

Early Years and Construction

• Launch and Initial Service: The Thozina was originally launched on September 18, 1957, by J.J. Sietas Schiffswerft in Hamburg, Germany, under the name Lisa Eichmann. It was commissioned for J. Eichmann and served in various capacities in the shipping industry.

Name Changes and Ownership

• Subsequent Renaming: In 1961, the vessel was sold and renamed Nereus. It underwent multiple ownership changes and name alterations over the years:
  • Cavalier Star: In 1987, it was acquired by Cavalier Lines and renamed.
  • Arawak Star: In 1993, it was transferred to Arawak Lines.
  • Cavalier Star (again): In 1995, it was sold to Star Brothers Shipping Company in Honduras and reverted to the name Cavalier Star.
  • Sea Queen: In 1998, ownership changed again to Everline S.A. of Belize, and the ship was renamed Sea Queen.
  • Thozina: Finally, in 2000, it was sold to Panamanian owners and renamed Thozina.

Acquisition and Scuttling

• Seizure and Scuttling: In July 2002, the Thozina was seized by the U.S. Customs Service due to the discovery of concealed narcotics onboard. Subsequently, Palm Beach County acquired the vessel and scuttled it on December 15, 2002, at the Governor’s River Walk Reef, making it the fourth vessel deployed in this artificial reef system.

Current State and Diving Experience

• Wreck Condition: The Thozina rests at a depth of 90 feet and has been impacted by hurricanes, which have caused structural damage such as the collapse of cargo holds and disintegration of parts of the ship. Despite these changes, it remains a vibrant dive site, attracting a wide variety of marine life, including Goliath grouper, sea turtles, rays, and sharks.

What Historical Features Can Still Be Identified on Wreck

Structural Remnants

• Hull and Superstructure: Portions of the hull and superstructure remain visible, allowing divers to appreciate the original design of the vessel. The ship’s length of 174 feet is still discernible, even though parts have collapsed.
• Cargo Holds: The wreck’s cargo holds, although damaged by hurricanes, can still be explored. These holds provide insight into the ship’s original purpose as a freighter.

Environmental Changes

• Hurricane Damage: The wreck has been significantly impacted by hurricanes, which have caused the bow and stern sections to break apart. This damage creates unique underwater topography that divers can explore, offering a glimpse into how marine environments evolve over time.
• Artificial Reef Features: The addition of rubble near the starboard bow enhances the diving experience by creating habitats for marine life. This feature is part of the artificial reef system designed to promote marine biodiversity.

Marine Life Interaction

• Biodiversity: The Thozina serves as a habitat for various marine species, including Goliath grouper, sea turtles, rays, and sharks. The interaction between the wreck and marine life is a significant aspect of its historical narrative as an artificial reef.

Historical Context

• Transformation from Freighter to Dive Site: Understanding the Thozina’s journey from a working freighter to an artificial reef provides historical context. The vessel’s history, including its original name and various ownership changes, adds depth to the dive experience.

What Safety Measures Are in Place for Divers Visiting Thozina

• Recommended Training: Divers are advised to have a minimum level of training appropriate for wreck diving. Courses such as the SDI Wreck Diver Specialty teach divers to recognize and manage the risks associated with wreck diving, including the potential hazards of overhead environments.
• Dive Briefings: Local dive operators typically conduct thorough dive briefings before excursions. These briefings cover site-specific conditions, including current strength, depth profiles, and potential hazards, ensuring that divers are well-informed before entering the water.
• Use of Safety Equipment: Divers are encouraged to carry essential safety gear, such as reels, cutting devices, lights, and surface marker buoys (SMBs). The use of SMBs is particularly important for safe ascents and to signal their position to surface support.
• Buddy System: Diving in pairs or groups is strongly recommended. The buddy system enhances safety by ensuring that divers can assist each other in case of an emergency or if one diver encounters difficulties.
• Environmental Awareness: Divers are advised to be aware of the environmental conditions, including currents and visibility, which can affect dive safety. Understanding these factors helps divers make informed decisions about their dive plans and limits.

Dive Shops That Provide Diving Trips to This Shipwreck

• Dive Palm Beach: This dive shop offers various diving packages, including trips to the Thozina wreck. They provide guided dives and equipment rentals.
• Pura Vida Divers: Known for their personalized dive experiences, Pura Vida Divers organizes trips to the Thozina and other nearby wrecks, focusing on safety and marine education.
• South Florida Diving Headquarters: This dive shop conducts regular trips to the Thozina wreck, along with other wrecks in the Palm Beach area, catering to divers of all skill levels.
• Ocean Quest Dive Charters: They offer dive charters to the Thozina and other wrecks, providing experienced guides and a range of diving services.
• Blue Water Divers: Specializing in wreck diving, Blue Water Divers includes the Thozina in their dive itineraries, ensuring a comprehensive diving experience in the area.