Diving at Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef (United States)
Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef stands as an enduring tribute, its artificial structures now thriving ecosystems. This site offers divers a chance to explore a deliberately sunk vessel that actively fosters marine growth and attracts a variety of fish. For divers with a keen interest in underwater memorial sites that double as burgeoning habitats, this reef promises an engaging experience within its deep-water setting.
As evening covers Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef, the local air temperature is measured at 28°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.4 m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Dive Site Overview
The poignant story behind Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef begins with a community’s dedication to honor a young life. Deployed in January 2011, this artificial reef was created in memory of Kyle Conrad through the efforts of his family, friends, and the Martin County Artificial Reef Fund Committee (MCAC Reef Fund).
An old, 60-foot (18 m) steel tugboat, built over a century ago, now rests at a depth of 47 m (155 ft), transforming into a vibrant underwater landmark. Located approximately 16 km (10 miles) northeast of St. Lucie Inlet, this site forms part of a larger network of reef projects in the area. Early monitoring dives after its deployment already showed fish beginning to populate its structure, affirming its purpose as a living memorial and a valuable marine habitat.
Conditions are Good
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef show 28° air, 29° sea temperature, 0.4 m waves, and 21 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Diving conditions at Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef vary significantly by season, with distinct patterns for air temperature and precipitation. Optimal months for diving typically fall between May and August, when air temperatures are at their warmest, ranging from 26°C (79°F) to 28.5°C (83°F). During this period, wave heights tend to be lower, and winds are generally calmer, contributing to a more pleasant overall experience on the water. Conversely, months like October often present less favorable conditions, with higher average wave heights of up to 1.6 m (5.2 ft) and increased rainfall, alongside stronger winds. While rain averages are notably higher in September and June (over 5mm), the air temperatures remain comfortable enough for diving throughout late spring and summer.
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
Exploring the Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef presents an encounter with its underwater dynamics. Resting at a maximum depth of 47 m (155 ft), this site is suitable for advanced divers comfortable with deeper profiles. The main feature is a 60-foot (18 m) steel tugboat, which provides intricate structures for exploration and acts as a focal point for marine life. Divers might encounter a thermocline, which can influence water clarity and the distribution of marine organisms, causing bottom fishing to be average at times. Visibility can shift depending on these thermal layers, adding a variable element to each dive. Careful descent and ascent planning are essential for navigating this deeper artificial reef.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching the Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef requires careful planning and a deep understanding of its challenges. Given its depth of 47 m (155 ft), advanced diving certifications and appropriate deep diving experience are prerequisites. Divers must prioritize robust gas management and decompression planning, especially when exploring the tugboat structure.
Additionally, currents can vary, so assessing conditions before entry is critical to ensure a safe drift or stationary dive. Due to the nature of a wreck, potential snag points exist, necessitating careful buoyancy control and awareness of one's surroundings to prevent entanglement.
Recommended Equipment
- Dive Computer
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef, United States. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
Thermal protection such as dive skin or rash guard is commonly used for water temperatures in this range. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds.
Divers entering the water at Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef today can expect temperatures near 29°C (84°F) beneath the surface. Surface air temperatures are resting at 28°C (82°F).
The next few days appear likely to bring similar environmental conditions.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Kyle Conrad Memorial 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 Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef
An artificial reef, the Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef quickly became a magnet for various marine species following its deployment. Divers frequently observe fish beginning to populate the sunken tugboat, forming a nascent ecosystem around its structure.
Expect to see reef fish taking shelter within the crevices and along the hull of the vessel. Occasionally, decent fish like mangrove snappers are picked up by local anglers, indicating their presence.
The developing artificial reef environment provides a foundational habitat, allowing divers to witness the ongoing colonization by different marine organisms.
Dive Centers Near Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef
Today: 10:00 - 18:00
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef?
The Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef is an artificial reef created in memory of Kyle Conrad. It was deployed as a living tribute to honor his life and contributions.
What type of structure forms the reef?
A 60-foot (18 m) steel tugboat serves as the central structure of the Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef. This century-old vessel was intentionally sunk to establish the artificial habitat.
How deep is the Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef?
Reaching a maximum depth of 47 m (155 ft), the Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef is a site for advanced divers. Its depth profile requires appropriate certifications.
When was the reef deployed?
The Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef was deployed in January 2011. Its creation was a community effort involving family, friends, and the MCAC Reef Fund.
What marine life can be observed at the reef?
The artificial reef actively attracts various fish species, with early observations showing fish populating the structure. Mangrove snappers have been noted among the species found here.
Who funded the creation of the reef?
Funds for the Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef were raised by Kyle Conrad's family and friends, in conjunction with the Martin County Artificial Reef Fund Committee (MCAC Reef Fund).
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Conditions are Good
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Kyle Conrad Memorial Reef show 28° air, 29° sea temperature, 0.4 m waves, and 21 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.