The wreck of the Lady Luck is a well-known artificial reef and shipwreck located approximately one mile southeast of the Hillsboro Inlet off the coast of Pompano Beach, Florida. It is a major centerpiece of Shipwreck Park, an underwater cultural arts park.
History and Sinking
* Original Name: The vessel was originally a 324-foot tanker named the Newtown Creek.
* Past Life: Built in 1967, it served New York City for nearly 50 years as a sludge tanker, transporting waste to treatment facilities.
* Acquisition: The ship was decommissioned in 2014 and purchased in 2016 by Shipwreck Park Inc. through a partnership between the City of Pompano Beach and Isle Casino Racing Pompano Park.
* Sinking Date: It was intentionally sunk on July 23, 2016, to create a marine life habitat and a world-class diving destination.
Underwater Features
The wreck is famously known as the world's first "underwater casino" due to several whimsical art installations on its deck created by artist Dennis MacDonald:
* Casino Art: Divers can find life-sized sculptures of an octopus dealer, card sharks at a poker table, a mermaid cocktail waitress, and giant dice.
* Marine Life: The ship acts as a massive fish haven, hosting barracudas, bull sharks, and colorful coral growth.
* Accessible Areas: The vessel was prepared for safe penetration, allowing advanced divers to explore the bridge, galley, engine room, and 16 staterooms.
Diving Information
* Depth: The ship rests upright in about 130 feet of water. The top of the mast rises to roughly 60 feet from the surface, with the main deck at approximately 105 feet.
* Skill Level: Due to the depth and potential for strong currents, it is recommended for Advanced Open Water divers or those with equivalent training. |