

Best for intermediate divers, 20-55m, boat entry, mild current.
Clifton Moss Reef is an artificial reef and wreck site located off Cape Lookout. The site spans depths from 20 to 55 metres, requiring careful dive planning and buoyancy control. Divers can expect mild currents, though surge and swell are common. Visibility typically ranges between 10 and 20 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate significantly throughout the year, from 12 to 23 degrees Celsius. Due to the depth and potential for entanglement near the wreck structures, this site is suited for intermediate divers. Boat access is required to reach the location, and divers must remain vigilant regarding boat traffic during surface intervals.
34.65888, -76.80695
Water temperature can drop to 12 degrees Celsius, so pack a wetsuit thick enough for the colder end of that range rather than planning for the warmest conditions. Confirm local boat operator availability and current facility options before travel, as shore facilities are not fixed.
Located 7.3 nautical miles from Beaufort Inlet at the Fort Macon jetty.
Recorded at this site
Depth
20-55m
Visibility
10-20m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
12-23°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
The site supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates typical of the region's habitat.
No, this site is intended for intermediate divers due to the depth, which reaches 55 metres, and the presence of wreck structures.
The depth ranges from 20 to 55 metres, with an average depth of 50 metres.
This is a boat dive located approximately 12.6 kilometres from shore.
Snorkelling is not recommended as the site is primarily an artificial reef and wreck located in deep water.
Diving at Clifton Moss Reef in Cape Lookout requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Clifton Moss Reef in Cape Lookout. Water temperatures range from 12°C to 23°C.
Divers at Clifton Moss Reef in Cape Lookout should be aware of sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Clifton Moss Reef in Cape Lookout typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Clifton Moss Reef in Cape Lookout typically ranges from 10 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.