Diving atCaptain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef (United States)
Planning a dive to Captain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef involves navigating offshore waters to reach this artificial structure. Consisting of 10 concrete reefballs, this site creates habitat on the seafloor, providing a dedicated destination for divers. It's an accessible component of the broader artificial reef network in the region, requiring boat transport for access.
Evening condition tracking at Captain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef features an air temperature of 22°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.56m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Coordinates
29.9019, -85.4599
Dive Site Overview
Dedicated habitat creation shaped the Captain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef, deployed as part of a wider initiative to enhance coastal marine ecosystems. Comprising 10 distinct concrete reefball modules, this artificial reef was purposefully placed to foster biodiversity in an otherwise featureless environment.
Such structures prove crucial for attracting and supporting a variety of aquatic organisms, providing shelter and feeding grounds often scarce elsewhere. Artificial reef programs, frequently originating from community efforts and environmental grants, aim to augment natural marine habitats. Divers exploring the site encounter these man-made features serving as foundations for thriving underwater communities.
A primary function of the reef involves providing structured relief, making it a focal point for both fish and invertebrates. While the immediate history of this specific reef isn't explicitly detailed beyond its composition, its existence reflects a common practice of creating sustainable subaquatic real estate.
Crafted from concrete, these reefballs are designed to endure, slowly integrating into the local seascape and contributing to the ecological health of the area. Deployment of such structures supports local fisheries and recreational diving, adding accessible points of interest offshore.
Best Time to Dive
Conditions for diving at Captain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef are generally favorable year-round, indicated by consistently good dive scores across all months. Air temperatures vary significantly, ranging from cooler averages of 10.8°C (51.4°F) in January to warmer highs of 28.1°C (82.6°F) in August, influencing surface comfort before and after dives. Rain precipitation remains low throughout the year, with averages typically between 1.3 mm (October) and 6.3 mm (September, December), suggesting minimal impact on surface conditions or visibility from freshwater runoff. Wave heights are generally manageable, often below 1 meter (3.3 ft), particularly calm during summer months with averages around 0.57-0.59 m (1.9 ft) in July and August. Wind speeds are moderate, ranging from a low of 14.3 km/h (8.9 mph) in July to around 20.1 km/h (12.5 mph) in April. While specific water temperature data for the site isn't consistently reported, coastal waters in this region typically follow air temperature trends, remaining warmer from late spring through early autumn. Divers can anticipate comfortable diving, especially during the warmer air temperature months.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Divers exploring Captain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef encounter a depth profile catering to recreational limits, with structures resting on the seafloor and providing vertical relief. While a precise maximum depth isn't consistently reported for this specific reef, similar artificial sites in the vicinity typically fall within accessible sport diving ranges. Concrete reefball modules, scattered on the bottom, form the primary features. Designed for stability and habitat, these modules are often partially buried over time by sand or sediment. Visibility can vary depending on local weather patterns and offshore currents; coastal waters generally offer moderate to good clarity on calm days. Surface conditions are typically influenced by prevailing winds and distant weather systems, though underwater currents might be present, they're not consistently strong. A relatively straightforward dive, the site primarily involves exploring the artificial structures and the marine life they attract. Bottom time often depends on the chosen depth and individual air consumption.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Divers approaching the Captain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef should be prepared for boat diving, as this is an offshore site. Good navigation skills are essential to locate the reefballs, which can be somewhat scattered. Strong buoyancy control is recommended to avoid contact with the artificial structures and the delicate marine life colonizing them. Because no specific hazards are reported for this site, general safe diving practices apply. Divers should monitor weather conditions before and during their trip, as offshore sites are more exposed to changes in wind and waves. Always dive with a buddy, plan your dive within no-decompression limits, and ensure your equipment is well-maintained. Respecting the marine environment includes refraining from touching or disturbing the reef structures.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
For many recreational divers, 3-5mm wetsuit provides a practical level of insulation in these conditions. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Surface intervals may feel cooler. Divers who tend to get cold easily may prefer slightly thicker exposure protection.
At the moment, divers exploring Captain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef will likely experience water temperatures near 23°C (74°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 22°C (72°F).
The next few days appear likely to bring similar environmental conditions.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
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Marine Life at Captain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef
The concrete reefball modules of Captain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef form an inviting underwater landscape for marine organisms. These artificial structures serve as a foundational anchor point, encouraging the growth of various sessile invertebrates and creating intricate spaces for fish to shelter and forage. Observing the reef involves circumnavigating the scattered reefballs, which act as focal points for local aquatic activity. While specific species aren't documented for this particular site, artificial reefs commonly attract a range of fin fish seeking refuge or feeding opportunities, along with crustaceans and other bottom dwellers. It's a localized area designed to support biodiversity, offering a concentrated spot for marine life viewing against the surrounding open seafloor.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Captain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef?
This site is an artificial reef dedicated to Captain Tom Hudson, created to enhance marine habitats. It consists of 10 concrete reefball modules, purposefully placed to attract and support marine life.
What structures will I find at this reef?
The reef is composed of 10 individual concrete reefball modules. These structures provide vertical relief and numerous crevices, acting as a substrate for growth and shelter for various aquatic species.
What is the typical depth for diving this site?
While a precise depth for this specific reef is not detailed, it typically falls within recreational diving limits. Artificial reefs like this one are designed to be accessible to standard sport diving certifications.
Is boat access required to reach Captain Tom Hudson Memorial Reef?
Yes, boat access is required. The reef is located offshore, making boat transport the necessary method for reaching the dive site.
When is the best time to dive here?
Diving conditions are generally good year-round. Air temperatures range from 10.8°C (51.4°F) in winter to 28.1°C (82.6°F) in summer, with low rainfall and often manageable waves, though warmer months usually offer more comfortable surface conditions.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
The reefballs function as habitat, attracting various fish seeking shelter and feeding grounds. You might observe invertebrates colonizing the structures, contributing to a localized ecosystem, though specific species lists are not available.
What about currents and visibility at the site?
Currents can vary depending on local conditions and tides, so divers should be aware. Visibility is also variable, influenced by weather and oceanographic factors, but often provides good clarity on calm days.
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