

Best for intermediate divers, 8-17m, boat entry, mild current.
Billy Smith Reef is an artificial reef and wreck site located 4630 metres off the coast of Morehead City near Cape Lookout. The site sits at depths ranging from 8 to 17 metres, with an average depth of 17 metres. Divers experience mild currents and visibility typically between 5 and 10 metres. Access is by boat only. Due to the nature of the wreck structure, divers must be aware of entanglement risks and sharp surfaces. The water temperature varies significantly throughout the year, ranging from 14C in February to 26C in July and August. This site is suited for intermediate divers who can manage buoyancy around wreckage and variable visibility conditions.
34.83583, -76.28083
Boat traffic in the area can be active, so deploy a surface marker buoy before ascending and make sure your skipper maintains a visible watch. Water temperature drops significantly in the cooler months, so bring a suitable wetsuit rather than assuming summer conditions year-round.
Access is by boat.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Depth
8-17m
Visibility
5-10m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
14-26°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
The site is rated for intermediate divers, as it requires managing buoyancy around wreck structures and navigating variable visibility.
The site depth ranges from 8 to 17 metres, with an average depth of 17 metres.
Billy Smith Reef is a boat-only dive site located 4630 metres from the shore.
Hazards include heavy boat traffic, potential entanglement within the wreck structure, sharp coral and metal, and low or variable visibility.
Diving at Billy Smith Reef in Cape Lookout requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Billy Smith Reef in Cape Lookout. Water temperatures range from 14°C to 26°C.
Billy Smith Reef in Cape Lookout typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Billy Smith Reef in Cape Lookout typically ranges from 5 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.