The Jim Atria

In September 1987, the Broward County Artificial Reef Program sank the 240-foot Dutch freighter Poinciana, built in 1961 on her port side in 110 feet of water. The name was then changed to Jim Atria, after Jim Atria who is a Broward County developer, diver and sport fisherman.

In 1992, Hurricane Andrew moved the ship more than 1/4 mile offshore and sitting upright to a depth of 135 feet. Her 2 masts are intact, rise to 70 feet, the highest point of the wreck and are covered by various corals and sea fans, providing great photo opportunities when ascending from the main deck. Other beautiful spots for memorable shots are the corner of the main deck as it meets the wheelhouse on the starboard side which, in itself is covered with staggering growth, and several open hatches adorned with tremendous growth. Wreck divers are invited to explore the inside of several openings at the wheelhouse at 95 feet. For the naturalist, Black Groupers, and Hogfish can be found under the hull at the sand, Glassy Sweepers and Squirrelfish in the cargo hold, thousands of Snappers and Grunts hiding in nooks, schools of Barracuda hovering as you descend and Amberjacks speeding through thousands of swimming baitfish above. Occasionally, you might see a spotted eagle ray glide by.

Twelve years of growth has made for a beautiful site, teeming with sea life, a favorite among local divers, standing out as one of the best.