Diving atFish Haven 13 (PR08) (United States)
Fish Haven 13 presents a tangible encounter with submerged structure and diverse marine life for certified divers. A boat-only accessible wreck dive in the San Juan Islands, it offers an immersive experience, inviting discovery of its unique topography and inhabitants. Attentive divers find fascination here.
Evening condition tracking at Fish Haven 13 (PR08) features an air temperature of 22.5°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.72m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Coordinates
30.3560, -86.5463
Dive Site Overview
Ewing Island Fish Haven provides a wreck dive centered on a submerged structure, its identity as either an artificial reef or a naturally sunken vessel often debated among local divers. Exploration begins with divers navigating over a sandy bottom, transitioning into a prominent rocky formation where the main wreck lies.
Underwater, varied topography supports different ecological zones, moving from sand to rock. Adjacent to the primary dive area, a significant shallow rock formation presents a notable surface hazard, breaking the water at approximately 0.9 m (3 ft) during moderate tides and notably lacking any navigational markers. Divers must account for the unmarked feature during both descent and ascent.
Dive profiles typically remain within recreational depth limits, allowing ample time for observation. Recent reports suggest visibility hovering around 4.5 m (15 ft), often influenced by incoming tides, which can introduce a noticeable silty quality.
Exploring this location allows observation of structural elements and diverse communities of organisms. Water temperatures here generally range from 8-12°C (46-54°F), necessitating appropriate thermal protection. Max depth is usually around 30 m (100 ft).
Best Time to Dive
Conditions for diving at Fish Haven 13 vary seasonally, though it's generally considered good throughout the year. April often presents favorable circumstances, showing a high dive score of 8, with air temperatures averaging 20.5°C (68.9°F) and lower rainfall at 2.44 mm. Summer months, particularly July and August, feature the warmest air temperatures, reaching up to 28.8°C (83.8°F), along with reduced wave heights averaging around 0.55-0.58 m (1.8-1.9 ft). Conversely, winter months like January experience cooler air temperatures, around 12.1°C (53.8°F), and higher wave activity, at approximately 0.96 m (3.1 ft), potentially influencing surface conditions and entry. Divers should consider these seasonal shifts for optimal comfort and accessibility, especially given the site's boat-only access.
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
Light currents generally characterize dives here, allowing for less strenuous exploration. Recent reports describe visibility around 4.5 m (15 ft), which can be silty, particularly influenced by incoming tides. Underwater topography shifts from a sandy seabed to a more rugged, rocky structure. Such a transition supports different ecological zones and provides varied search opportunities for marine life. A notable feature is a shallow rock that rises to 0.9 m (3 ft) below the surface at moderate tides; its unmarked presence requires careful attention during navigation, especially when approaching or leaving the primary dive area. Divers should be prepared for typical Pacific Northwest water temperatures, necessitating appropriate thermal protection.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Pre-dive planning for Fish Haven 13 is essential, as the site is accessible only by boat. A significant navigational hazard is an unmarked shallow rock structure, which rises to 0.9 m (3 ft) deep at moderate tides, located immediately next to the wreck. The feature poses a collision risk for surface vessels. Cell service, specifically with Verizon, is limited at this remote location, impacting emergency communications. Divers should ensure their vessel has reliable mooring capabilities, as the nearest mooring is about 100 yards into the cove. Always plan for self-rescue or buddy assistance and carry appropriate signaling devices.
Recommended Equipment
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Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Repeated dives during the same day can gradually reduce overall body warmth.
The water around Fish Haven 13 (PR08) is currently holding at approximately 23°C (73°F), setting the tone for today's dives. Surface air temperatures are resting at 23°C (73°F). Divers spending extended time underwater often rely on 3-5mm wetsuit for balanced warmth and flexibility. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Surface intervals may feel cooler.
The forecast outlook suggests that temperatures will stay close to current levels.
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 Fish Haven 13 (PR08)
A surprising array of marine inhabitants are supported here, often found sheltering within the wreck and surrounding rocky structures. Divers frequently observe various nudibranchs and numerous smaller decorator crabs. Abundant dock and spot shrimp call this area home. Larger predatory fish such as a beautiful, big cabezon and several massive lingcods are present. Keep an eye out for rockfish, blackeyed gobies, stilleto shrimps, and three-lined shrimp. Notably, divers have encountered some of the biggest red urchins here, adding to the site's biological diversity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What type of access does Fish Haven 13 offer?
Access to Fish Haven 13 is exclusively by boat. A mooring is available approximately 100 yards into the cove for convenience.
What are the typical visibility conditions?
Visibility at Fish Haven 13 can be around 4.5 m (15 ft), often with a silty quality, especially during incoming tides. Conditions can vary, so checking recent reports is recommended.
Are there any specific navigational hazards?
Yes, a shallow rock structure exists directly next to the wreck, which at moderate tides rises close to the surface. It lacks navigational markers, so divers and boaters must exercise caution.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
The site hosts nudibranchs, decorator crabs, dock and spot shrimp, cabezon, lingcods, rockfish, blackeyed gobies, stilleto shrimps, three-lined shrimp, and large red urchins.
Is cell service available at the dive site?
No, cell service, particularly for Verizon, is limited at this remote diving location. Divers should plan for alternative communication methods in case of emergencies.
What is the primary structure at Fish Haven 13?
A wreck surrounded by a rocky structure defines the site, leading out to a sandy bottom. Some debate exists among divers about whether it's an artificial reef or a naturally sunken vessel.
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