Diving atGlasrud Reef (United States)
Off the coast of Martin County, Florida, the Hailey Glasrud Artificial Reef now stands as a substantial deep-water habitat. This significant vessel, deployed upright, rests at a maximum depth of 57 m (188 ft). Its uppermost structure, including the main portion above the bridge, rises to 33.5 m (110 ft), presenting a challenging wreck for technical divers.
Tonight's objective overview for Glasrud Reef shows an air temperature of 28°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.6 m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
Initially named DM-One, the vessel began its operational life in Hamburg, Germany, in 1966. Spanning 225 feet (68.6 m), this ship served a lengthy career under various names, primarily transporting general and grain cargo across international waters.
Its journey to becoming an artificial reef started in October 2013, when the MCAC Artificial Reef Fund acquired it for transformation into the Hailey Glasrud Artificial Reef. On April 24, 2014, the controlled deployment occurred, meticulously managed and described by observers as a "picture perfect day." Careful planning ensured the ship settled precisely upright on the seabed, intentionally establishing a new "hotel for fish" and a complex ecological foundation.
Now positioned 8 miles off Martin County, Florida, it functions as a substantial underwater structure, offering a complex environment for diverse marine life. This endeavor stands as a testament to Florida's robust artificial reef program, actively enhancing marine ecosystems and bolstering coastal tourism through such projects.
A successful sinking has provided divers with an unparalleled opportunity to explore a significant piece of maritime history, repurposed for ecological benefit and offering intricate environments. It continues to evolve as a vibrant habitat, attracting a wide spectrum of marine species and contributing to local biodiversity.
Glasrud Reef
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Glasrud Reef show 28° air, 28° sea temperature, 0.3 m waves, and 19 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a dive to Glasrud Reef typically yields the most favorable conditions from late spring through late summer. May, July, and August often present optimal dive scores due to calmer seas and pleasant air temperatures. During these months, average air temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) in May to 28.5°C (83°F) in August. Rainfall is also comparatively lower, with July averaging around 2.9 mm and August around 3.3 mm, reducing potential runoff that can impact visibility. While October experiences cooler air temperatures around 26.5°C (80°F), it also shows a higher average rainfall of 6.0 mm and increased wave heights, potentially affecting surface conditions and dive comfort. For the best experience, target the months with lower average wave heights and consistent warm air.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
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 descending upon the Hailey Glasrud wreck will first encounter the uppermost structure above the bridge, beginning at a depth of 33.5 m (110 ft). Continuing deeper, the main deck level is situated at 52 m (171 ft), making this a site for advanced to technical divers. The vessel rests in an upright position, offering a clear outline for exploration. Due to its depth, the site can experience varying visibility and currents, depending on the day's conditions and recent weather patterns. Exploring the ship's massive hull provides a concrete and immersive experience, revealing its transformation from a cargo hauler to a vibrant marine habitat.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Diving the Hailey Glasrud wreck is strictly within the technical diver range due to its significant depth, with the deepest point resting at 57 m (188 ft). Divers planning to explore this site must possess the appropriate certifications and experience for deep and wreck diving environments. Adequate gas planning, decompression protocols, and redundant equipment are essential for a safe dive. Always dive within your training limits and with a buddy. Given the potential for currents and the inherent challenges of deep diving, proper dive planning and execution are paramount. Review current weather and sea conditions before any planned excursion.
Recommended Equipment
- Dive Computer
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Glasrud Reef, United States. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
2-3mm shorty or light wetsuit is often considered an appropriate level of exposure protection for conditions like these. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds.
Current readings at Glasrud Reef show water temperatures near 28°C (83°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 28°C (82°F).
The upcoming forecast points to generally steady conditions in the area.
Due to technical issues with our weather providers, data hasn't been fetched for over 48 hours. The data above reflects the conditions at the time of the last successful fetch.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Glasrud Reef.
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN World.
+1-919-684-9111- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Marine Life at Glasrud Reef
Conversion of the DM-One into the Hailey Glasrud Artificial Reef has created an instant "hotel for fish" and a complex habitat on what was once a flat seabed. As divers navigate the massive hull, they may observe barracuda and jacks gliding past the structure, actively utilizing it for shelter and hunting grounds. This artificial reef supports a burgeoning ecosystem, attracting a diverse range of marine species that colonize the surfaces and find refuge within its framework. Increased marine life populations along the food chain contribute to the reef's dynamic underwater landscape.
Dive Centers Near Glasrud Reef
Working Hours
Today: 10:00 - 18:00
The Kyalami Scuba Club
Neptunes Scuba Academy
Nearest Airports
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth of the Hailey Glasrud Reef?
Hailey Glasrud rests at a maximum depth of 57 m (188 ft) on the seabed. This dive site is suitable for technical divers only.
When was the Hailey Glasrud deployed as an artificial reef?
Deployment of Hailey Glasrud as an artificial reef occurred on Thursday, April 24, 2014. It was a well-documented event, captured by multiple cameras.
What kind of vessel was the Hailey Glasrud originally?
Originally named DM-One, this 225-foot long vessel served as a general and grain cargo hauler, built in Hamburg, Germany, in 1966. Its operational life concluded before transforming into an artificial reef.
What are the shallowest points divers can access on the wreck?
Divers can access the main upper structure above the bridge, which sits at 33.5 m (110 ft). The deck level then lies deeper, at 52 m (171 ft) below the surface.
Why was the Hailey Glasrud sunk as an artificial reef?
Deployment aimed to enhance marine habitat and promote marine life populations in the area. Such projects also contribute to local tourism by attracting divers and fishermen, generating economic benefits.
Are there any specific marine life highlights at Glasrud Reef?
As an artificial reef, the Hailey Glasrud attracts various marine species. Divers commonly observe barracuda and jacks, which utilize the wreck for shelter and hunting. It functions as a complex ecosystem that supports a range of aquatic inhabitants.
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Glasrud Reef
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Glasrud Reef show 28° air, 28° sea temperature, 0.3 m waves, and 19 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.