

Best for intermediate divers, 18m, boat entry, mild current.
New River Reef is an artificial reef and wreck site located 18 kilometres offshore from Wilmington. The site sits at a consistent depth of 18 metres and is accessible only by boat. Divers encounter mild currents and visibility ranging from 5 to 10 metres. Due to the nature of the wreck structure, there is a risk of entanglement, and divers should carry a cutting tool. Heavy boat traffic is common in the area, necessitating the use of a surface marker buoy during ascents. Water temperatures fluctuate between 13 and 25 degrees Celsius, requiring appropriate thermal protection depending on the season.
34.35333, -77.33445
Boat traffic in this area can be heavy, so deploy a surface marker buoy before ascending and keep your ascent directly over the structure. Water temperature can drop to 13 degrees Celsius in winter, so a drysuit or thick wetsuit is worth planning for if you visit outside the warmer months.
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Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Depth
18m
Visibility
5-10m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
13-25°C
Current
Mild
The site is rated for intermediate divers, as it requires good buoyancy control and awareness of entanglement hazards around the wreck structure.
The site has a consistent depth of 18 metres.
This is a boat-only dive site located approximately 18 kilometres from the shore.
Divers must watch for heavy boat traffic when surfacing and be cautious of entanglement risks posed by the wreck structure.
Diving at New River Reef in Cape Fear requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at New River Reef in Cape Fear. Water temperatures range from 13°C to 25°C.
New River Reef in Cape Fear typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at New River Reef in Cape Fear typically ranges from 5 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.