Merci Jesus Wreck • Sunday, November 1, 2026
The Merci Jesus has one of those distinctly South Florida artificial-reef histories: a working freighter, cocaine smuggling, federal seizure, and finally a deliberate trip to the bottom as a dive site.
At a glance
| What you need to know | |
|---|---|
| Dive 1 | Wreck |
| Dive 2 | Reef |
| Max depth in feet | 70 |
| Minimum cert level | Open Water |
| Departs from | Fort Lauderdale |
| Minutes from shop | 25 |
| Be at the boat no later than | 7:45 AM |
| Boat departs | 8:30 AM |
| Expected return | 12:00 PM |
| Price without gear rental | $109.95 |
| Price with tanks and weights | $135.95 |
| Price with full gear rental | $165.95 |
| Add Nitrox | $12.95 per tank |
| For a personal guide, add | $100.95 |
| For each extra guided diver, add | $49.95 |
Every charter includes an Aquatic Ventures Divemaster or Instructor, and you’re welcome to dive with them at no additional charge. If you prefer a more personalized experience, you can reserve your own private dive guide for an additional $100.95.
You may also have friends or family members join you and your private guide for just $49.95 each, making it an excellent option for couples, friends, or family members who want a more individualized diving experience.
The wreck
The Merci Jesus was a 90-foot freighter, approximately 26 feet in beam. Contemporary reporting identifies it as a Haitian vessel, while some later dive sources describe it as Belizean-flagged.
On April 28, 1998, U.S. Coast Guard personnel and U.S. Customs agents boarded the Merci Jesus in Miami. They emptied one of the vessel’s ballast tanks and discovered a concealed compartment containing 969 pounds of cocaine. The crew was arrested and the vessel seized by Customs.
The vessel didn’t remain in government custody for long. Broward County acquired it for its artificial-reef program, prepared it for sinking, and on August 11, 1998 — only about three and a half months after the cocaine seizure — deliberately sank the Merci Jesus off Fort Lauderdale.
The Merci Jesus settled upright with its bow pointing south. The sand is around 70–72 feet, while portions of the wreck rise to roughly 50 feet.
Watch the video
The diving
Divers can expect the Merci Jesus to be a relatively compact but fish-filled wreck, with plenty to explore during a single dive. Divers can circle the hull, explore the deck and examine the stern, wheelhouse and cabin areas.
There are several openings and easy swim-throughs around the structure, although actual penetration opportunities are limited. The wheelhouse and enclosed portions of the stern constitute true overhead environments and should be treated accordingly.
Marine life can be abundant. Schools of small tropical fish frequently surround the wreck, while barracuda and grouper are commonly reported. Like most established South Florida artificial reefs, the Merci Jesus has accumulated substantial marine growth, providing both food and shelter for reef species.
Balance is due in full when you sign up. There are no refunds unless we find someone to take your place.
- DAN insurance
- Crew gratuity
- Certification cards
- Dive insurance
- Signed travel waiver and Statement of Understanding
- Personal dive gear
- Audible and visual surface signals
…and don’t forget:
- One towel each for showers and diving
- Dive light
- Safety sausage
- Emergency mirror
- Whistle
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
Learn more
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