Dive Shops in Apalachicola, Florida

Big Blue operates out of Bristol Harbor in historic downtown Panama City, Florida, offering a distinctive diving experience aboard a custom-built 2019 Newton 36 Dive boat. Unlike typical dive boats, this vessel is equipped with twin Cummins engines for swift travel, advanced electronics including autopilot, down scan, side scan, and radar, as well as an enclosed cabin and private head for comfort. The boat holds a 100-mile Coast Guard COI endorsement and is outfitted with top-tier safety equipment such as a life raft, EPRIB, AED, oxygen kit, and first aid supplies. Its location in the tranquil Massalina Bayou provides a scenic departure into St. Andrews Bay, with convenient parking and restroom facilities available at the marina. The business specializes in diving excursions to Panama City’s renowned artificial reefs, wrecks, and underwater structures, including sites like Black Bart, Red Sea, Accokeek, and Chippewa. Divers can explore abundant marine life, from red snapper and amberjack to triggerfish and even occasional sea turtles or sharks. Trips are offered primarily on weekends, either by booking individual spots through partner shops or by reserving the full boat for private groups of up to ten divers, allowing tailored dive experiences suited to varying skill levels. While spearfishing with guns is prohibited, lionfish hunting with containment devices is permitted, enhancing the ecological value of the outings. Equipment rentals are available through a partner shop, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable diving adventure.