Aqautic Ventures

Jim Atria Wreck • Saturday, July 11, 2026

This wreck is an ideal destination for Advanced  divers. Resting in nearly 130 feet of water, she offers both an intriguing history and an exciting diving experience. Today, the wreck serves as an artificial reef, attracting a diverse array of tropical fish and colorful corals that cover much of her structure.

At a glance

Jime Atria
What you need to know
Dive 1Wreck
Dive 2Reef
Max depth in feet130
Minimum cert levelAdvanced/Deep
Departs fromFort Lauderdale
Minutes from shop20
Be at the boat no later than7:45 AM
Boat departs8:30 AM
Expected return8:30 AM
Price without gear rental$109.95
Price with tanks and weights$119.95
Price with all gear$149.95
Add Nitrox$10.00 per tank

Watch the video

The wreck

The Jim Atria is a 227-foot-long, 34-foot-wide Dutch-built freighter originally launched in 1961 as the Poinciana. The vessel gained notoriety after capsizing and sinking in the Miami River. After being salvaged, she was towed offshore and intentionally sunk as an artificial reef on September 23, 1987.

The wreck was renamed in honor of Jim Atria, an avid diver and fisherman who played a key role in the vessel’s preparation and sinking. When first placed on the reef, the ship rested on her port side. In 1992, however, Hurricane Andrew shifted the wreck upright, creating the orientation divers see today.

The diving

The Jim Atria’s bow points north, and the wreck now rests with a slight list to port. The mast rises to approximately 75 feet below the surface, while the wheelhouse sits at about 95 feet.

Over the years, the wreck has become heavily encrusted with colorful soft corals, making a dive light highly recommended for bringing out the vibrant reds, oranges, yellows and purples that cover the structure. Schools of baitfish swarm around the wreck, attracting larger predators that patrol the area in search of an easy meal.

Inside the cargo holds, divers will find dense schools of glass sweepers and squirrelfish, creating a spectacular display of movement and color. Combined with its rich marine life, impressive structure and fascinating history, the Jim Atria remains one of South Florida’s most popular wreck dives.

Learn more or reserve space

Use this form to send us a question about this specific trip. You can also use this form to let us know you are interested in joining us and how many people will be in your group — just be aware that reservations are not considered firm until we receive paymentt.

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