Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks

WHAT IT IS

A Greek sponge-diving port on the Gulf, in continuous operation since 1905, still selling what the divers bring up.

Recruiters brought divers from the Dodecanese in 1905 and the industry made this the richest port in Florida. Blight and synthetics nearly ended it; the boats kept going anyway. The docks are lined with sponge warehouses, Greek bakeries, and a working fleet whose crews are often the great-grandchildren of the first divers. The demonstration boat trip includes a diver in a brass helmet, which is not a costume.

HOW IT SCORES

NEARBY