Governor’s River Walk Reef Dive Charter

Dive Site Details

• Location:

  • Situated 1½ miles south of the Lake Worth Inlet in 55 to 90 feet of water.
  • Found just east of the natural reef, South Double Ledges.

• The Wrecks of Governor’s River Walk Reef:

  • Shasha Boekanier:
    • Sunk: February 2002.
    • Size: 184-foot coastal freighter.
    • Special Feature: Memorial statue placed by Delray Beach police and firefighters at its northern tip.
  • St. Jacques:
    • Size: 180-foot coastal freighter.
  • Gilbert Sea:
    • Size: 170-foot coastal freighter.
  • Thozina:
    • Sunk: December 2002.
    • Size: 174-foot coastal freighter.

• Historical Significance:

  • These ships were part of Operation River Walk, a U.S. Customs initiative to combat drug smuggling on the Miami River.
  • Turned over to Palm Beach County’s Artificial Reef Program and now serve as a thriving underwater ecosystem.
  • Named to honor Governor Bush’s efforts in this operation.

• Marine Life:

  • Vibrant coral and algae growth attract a wide variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and sharks.
  • A diver’s paradise for spotting marine biodiversity in action.

• Diving Suitability:

  • Depth range: 55 to 90 feet.
  • Perfect for advanced recreational divers and introductory technical diving.

Why Dive Governor’s River Walk Reef with Stuart Scuba?

At Stuart Dive Shop, operated by Stuart Scuba, we provide unparalleled dive experiences, helping divers explore the wonders of Governor’s River Walk Reef safely and comfortably.

• Expert Guidance: Our dive team ensures you’re fully prepared to explore the wrecks.
• Fully Equipped Boats: All trips include freshwater rinses, snacks, and drinks.
• Convenient Locations: Dive Governor’s River Walk Reef and other spectacular sites off the Treasure Coast, Stuart, West Palm Beach, and beyond.

Stuart Scuba Service Locations

From Stuart to West Palm Beach and the Treasure Coast, we serve a wide range of divers across Florida:

• Stuart, FL: Stuart Dive Shop – Your premier destination for all scuba diving needs.
• West Palm Beach, FL: Dive trips to incredible locations like Governor’s River Walk Reef.
• Palm Beach County, FL: Access to stunning wrecks and reefs, including South Double Ledges.
• Treasure Coast: Serving Stuart, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, and surrounding areas.

Governor’s River Walk Reef Dive FAQs

Where is Governor’s River Walk Reef?

It is an artificial reef off Palm Beach County, about 1.5 miles south of Lake Worth Inlet, in the area of South Double Ledges. The charter operator selects the site based on the trip plan and conditions.

How deep is Governor’s River Walk Reef?

We describe this site as about 55–90 feet deep. Ask the operator about the profile planned for your date.

What wrecks make up the reef?

Sites include four coastal freighters: Shasha Boekanier, St. Jacques, Gilbert Sea and Thozina.

How long are the wrecks?

The four freighters are Shasha Boekanier (184 feet), St. Jacques (180 feet), Gilbert Sea (170 feet), and Thozina (174 feet).

What is the reef’s history?

Before becoming part of Palm Beach County’s artificial reef program, these vessels were involved in Operation River Walk, a U.S. Customs effort to combat drug smuggling on the Miami River.

What is the memorial statue on Shasha Boekanier?

You may see a memorial statue placed at the northern tip by Delray Beach police and firefighters.

What marine life might divers see?

You may see tropical fish, coral, algae, sea turtles and sharks. Sightings and coral conditions vary.

Is Governor’s River Walk a drift dive?

Current and drift profiles vary by charter. Ask the operator about conditions, and follow the captain and divemaster briefing.

What certification level is recommended?

We describe this 55–90-foot site as suitable for advanced recreational divers and introductory technical diving. Contact us to confirm requirements for your date.

Can newer divers visit the reef?

The published depth range reaches about 90 feet and This site is an advanced site. Contact our shop to confirm whether your training and recent experience fit the scheduled trip.

Is wreck penetration part of the charter?

Wreck penetration is not included. Do not enter a wreck unless your training, operator briefing, and conditions explicitly permit it.

What visibility should I expect?

We don’t promise a fixed visibility range. Weather, current, and water conditions change; contact us for a forecast for your date.

How many dives are included?

Tank count varies by trip. Contact us to confirm the itinerary and included items for your date.

What equipment should I bring?

We’ll confirm the current equipment requirements and rental options for your trip.

Where do charters check in?

The website lists Riviera Beach City Marina for most departures. Confirm your specific meeting point and arrival time before the trip.

What is included on the boat?

Our boats include freshwater rinses, snacks, and drinks. Contact us to confirm all inclusions for your date.

What is the current charter price?

Price and availability depend on the selected date and charter. Contact us for the current amount.

Does Stuart Scuba have a store in Palm Beach?

The retail shop is in Stuart. Palm Beach County is the charter dive area; check-in for most departures is at Riviera Beach City Marina.

Which nearby cities do you serve?

We welcome divers from Stuart, Palm City, Hobe Sound, Port St. Lucie, Jupiter, West Palm Beach, and Vero Beach. Our retail and training location is in Stuart.

How do I book Governor’s River Walk?

Call us at (772) 600-8288 to confirm the date, certification requirement, dive plan, check-in point and current price.