Spearman’s Barge
Spearman’s Barge
- Dive Type: Artificial Reef/Wreck Dive
- Depth: Maximum 70 feet (21 meters)
- Skill Level: Open Water divers and above
- Sunk Date: 1978
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Ratings
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Current: Low to Moderate
- Depth: Moderate (70 feet max)
- Reef Quality: Excellent, with vibrant corals and sponges
- Fauna Abundance: High diversity and density
Spearman's Barge, also known as Colson’s Barge, is a 150-foot deck barge sunk in 1978 as part of an artificial reef program. Over decades, it has transformed into a thriving marine habitat, complementing the surrounding natural reef with vibrant corals and abundant sea life.
Availability: In Stock
Marine Life: Encounters Around the Barge
Spearman’s Barge attracts an incredible variety of marine life, providing a captivating experience for divers:
Large Residents
- Goliath Groupers: Massive groupers often rest around the barge, with some reaching up to 400 pounds.
- Nurse Sharks: Frequently seen resting under overhangs or cruising nearby.
Reef Dwellers
- Spiny Lobsters: Spot these crustaceans hiding in crevices along the barge.
- Moray Eels: Both green and spotted morays are commonly found tucked into nooks and crannies.
Schooling Fish
- Snappers and Grunts: Large schools of fish form mesmerizing clouds around the structure.
- Barracudas: Solitary predators often hover near the wreck, observing divers curiously.
Coral and Macro Life
- Hard and Soft Corals: The barge is heavily colonized by a mix of corals, creating vibrant color and texture.
- Fluorescent Baby Corals: A rare sight highlighting the growth of this artificial reef.
- Blennies and Gobies: Small but charismatic residents can be found darting between coral clusters.
Seasonal Visitors
- Eagle Rays: Graceful rays often glide by the structure during migration seasons.
- Sea Turtles: Green and hawksbill turtles occasionally pass through, nibbling on sponges.
Wreck Features and Navigation
- Barge Structure: While collapsed, the barge provides a complex habitat teeming with life.
- Suggested Path: Start at the bow, working your way along the deck to explore crevices and coral formations. The surrounding sandy bottom is also worth investigating for rays and sand divers.
- Current and Visibility: Mild currents, with visibility ranging from 40-80 feet depending on the conditions.
Why Dive Spearman’s Barge?
Spearman’s Barge offers the perfect blend of wreck and reef diving. The decades-old artificial reef has matured into a biodiverse ecosystem, making it an underwater photographer's paradise and a must-visit site for any diver exploring Florida’s coast.
Plan Your Dive with Stuart Scuba
Book your dive today to explore Spearman’s Barge, and let our experienced guides ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure.
- Dive Shop Location: 3317 SE Federal Hwy, Stuart, FL 34997
- Dive Schedule and Bookings: Stuart Scuba Dive Shop
- Nearby Attractions: Pair this dive with the Ana Cecilia for an epic two-wreck experience!
Dive into history and discover the thriving marine life of Spearman’s Barge!
