Ace Diving

Ace Diving serves as a primary gateway to the marine environments of South Florida, operating from the Bayside Marketplace at Pier 5. The centre is uniquely positioned as the only dive operator in Miami with authorisation to dive within the protected waters of Biscayne National Park, offering access to the Florida Reef, one of the largest coral reef systems in the world.

The area provides a vast spectrum of diving, from the shallow, calm waters of the mangrove forests and reef flats to deep, challenging wreck dives. Divers can choose between exploring the Maritime Heritage Trail, visiting the surreal Neptune Memorial Reef, or navigating the complex structures of various sunken vessels.

The centre is affiliated with several major training organisations, including PADI, SSI, SDI, TDI, and ERDI. This multi-agency approach allows divers to pursue certifications that best suit their specific technical or recreational goals.

Instruction ranges from entry-level Discover Scuba Diving programmes to professional-level Divemaster and technical specialties. The team also focuses heavily on safety and emergency response, offering Emergency First Response and various Public Safety Diver training modules through ERDI.

The course catalogue is extensive, covering the entire spectrum of diver progression. Beginners can start with Discover Scuba Diving or Open Water Diver courses, while those looking to advance can pursue Advanced Open Water Diver, Rescue Diver, and Divemaster certifications.

Specialised training is a core strength, with options including Peak Performance Buoyancy, Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, and Sidemount. For those moving into the technical realm, the centre offers Rebreather Specialty, Decompression Apparatus for Nitrox (ANDP), and various ERD Public Safety technician courses.

Conservation and environmental awareness are also integrated into the curriculum through specialties such as AWARE Coral Reef Conservation, AWARE Dive Against Debris, and the Invasive Lionfish Tracker programme.

All dives depart from the Newton 46' Dive Special Vessel. This dedicated boat is designed with space and safety in mind, providing a stable platform for both recreational and specialised diving trips.

On board, you will find refreshments provided in an ice box and water for hydration. The vessel is fully equipped for night diving, with torches available for those undertaking the Night Diver Specialty.

The centre provides a full range of rental kit, including wetsuits, masks, snorkels, and fins. For those needing more specific equipment, cylinders and weights are also available for hire.

For technical and advanced divers, the centre supports more complex requirements, including rebreather diving and Nitrox availability. Safety is a priority on shore, with Emergency Oxygen availability provided for all divers.

The marine life in the Miami area is diverse, with many species frequenting the reef flats and wrecks. You will regularly encounter sea turtles, nurse sharks, and large schools of fish. Reef inhabitants include various species of snapper, angelfish, parrotfish, and wrasse, alongside moray eels and southern stingrays.

Macro life and smaller residents are abundant throughout the habitats. Divers often spot lobsters, eels, and various species of damselfish. The seagrass and rocky areas are also home to many species of tropical fish.

During the spring, there are opportunities to see sailfish. On certain wreck sites, you may also observe eagle rays and various species of grouper.

Diving in this region varies significantly depending on the site. While many of the reef flats and park areas are calm and suitable for families, certain wreck sites like Blue Fire and Deep Freeze are known for having strong currents.

The Key Biscayne Wreck Trek area typically experiences a northward current, which can be utilised for drift diving. Some sites, such as the Cascades, offer favourable conditions for drift diving when the current is moving in the right direction.