Since I’m new to the area, I’ve been skeptical of the Hammerhead sightings mentioned in the last 6 months. Mainly because no one had the substantial proof on the days of the sightings… Well, I’m here to apologize to all the people I’ve casted doubt upon…I saw my first Hammerhead this past Thursday, on Breakers Reef (just south of the Cave).. He kind of surprised me, as he was was heading south w/ 3 large remoras on him. It was like 2 cars passing each other on an open road, although I was a car and he was a small truck! He came within 20ft of me, and I estimate his length at about 9-10ft, with a really tall dorsal fin. This guy had some girth, and I actually thought it was one of the bull sharks that has been hanging about our reefs lately, until I caught a glimpse of it’s face. And like the many divers before me, I was alone, and had no camera…I don’t encourage solo diving, but leaving the camera behind helped execute the reverse psychology I was game planning for…
The first dive down on Paul’s Reef wasn’t too shabby either…it was a Big Critter Day for sure. Came across two Bull Sharks with Cobias all around, and a huge Southern Sting Ray was under a ledge with its own pair of cobia. And by far the biggest Loggerhead Turtle I’ve seen to date was on Breakers. His head looked like it was going to pop off. Seas were a rolling 2-3ft, mild North current, 60ft of vis, and 75 degree water temp. Overall, a mighty fine day to be scuba diving here in Palm Beach County. The weekend is looking great, so come on out !
