DR>Steve, My buddy and I were looking for an inexpensive weekend
DR>getaway to Ft. Lauderdale. A couple told us abut some good
DR>diving of the northern most hotel on "hotel row". Apparently
DR>they stay there and dive patch reefs about 50-100 yds. right off
DR>the beach.  Rates were quoted as $30-$40 per night. Can you give
DR>any more info. (Like the name of the hotel) or any other
DR>suggestions about a low budget weekend?
There are lots of smaller hotels on the northern end of the
strip, but I'm not aware of any that are offering rooms for
$30-40 a night.  You're right at the end of tourist season,
so the rates will definately have dropped off.
Beach diving is plentiful in that area.  The first reef line
is about 50-100 yards off-shore, visibility is great these
days and the water temps are in the high 70's.
If you're looking for a good package deal which would include
a hotel room & dive boat, you might want to check with the
folks at Lauderdale Undersea Adventures (305-527-0187).
DR>Beach diving here (off Venice) has been ruined by local
DR>politics - big idea of beach replenishing. The vis sucks,
DR>and the few reefs are now under 20 feet of beautiful white
DR>sand. BLAH.
I used to live in the Ft. Myers area, so I can certainly
appreciate what your diving conditions are like.  Our viz
is definately better than what you're used to, and the reefs
are in surprisingly good shape.
DR>Anyhow, our gear is starting to show signs of dry rot and
DR>cobwebs. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
I'll post my annual "Things to do in Ft. Lauderdale" file
following this message.
DR>Remember: divers do it deeper , , , and come up wetter!
Gee.... maybe I should tell you about the sleeper sofa
in my living room!  :)
--- Dive, dive, dive!
---------------