

Best for intermediate divers, 4m, boat entry, mild current.
Topsail Reef is an artificial reef situated 4600 metres offshore from Wilmington. The site features a structure at a depth of 4 metres, with an average depth of 13 metres. It is suitable for intermediate divers who can manage mild currents and visibility typically ranging between 5 and 10 metres. Access is by boat only. Water temperatures vary significantly, from 12C in winter to 29C in summer, necessitating appropriate exposure protection. Due to the presence of vessel traffic, divers must remain alert when surfacing and are required to deploy a surface marker buoy to indicate their position to boat operators.
34.34972, -77.60305
Always deploy your SMB before ascending, as boat traffic above the site is a real concern at this location. Check locally for current facility availability before your trip, as provisions can vary.
The site is accessible by boat.
Recorded at this site
Depth
4m
Visibility
5-10m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
12-29°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
Best Time
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
No, this site is designated for intermediate divers.
The structure sits at a depth of 4 metres, with an average depth of 13 metres.
Access to Topsail Reef is by boat only.
The main hazard is boat traffic. Divers must remain alert when surfacing and always deploy a surface marker buoy to indicate their position.
Diving at Topsail Reef in Topsail Beach requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Topsail Reef in Topsail Beach. Water temperatures range from 12°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Topsail Reef in Topsail Beach are June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Topsail Reef in Topsail Beach typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Topsail Reef in Topsail Beach typically ranges from 5 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.