Diving atLizzie D Wreck (United States)
Known historically as 'The Rum Runner,' the Lizzie D Wreck presents a captivating dive into a Prohibition-era mystery. This 84-foot (25.6 m) tugboat, resting upright on the seabed, offers a distinctive structural profile for exploration. Its history, combined with its accessible features, makes for a compelling underwater experience off the Long Island coast. Divers navigating its interior often discover remnants of its clandestine past.
As evening covers Lizzie D Wreck, the local air temperature is measured at 9.5°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.8m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Coordinates
40.2566, -73.5074
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
This site reveals the wreck of the Lizzie D, a 122 gross ton tugboat that met its fate on October 19, 1922. Initially reported as sinking during a 'cruise of the narrows' with all crew lost, the true nature of its final voyage remained obscured for decades.
It wasn't until 1977 that divers confirmed long-held suspicions, locating the vessel under 80 feet (24 meters) of water and discovering crates of illegal liquor. Today, the hull of this 15-year-old vessel remains largely intact and upright, approximately eight miles southeast of Atlantic Beach Inlet. While the upper deck lies scattered in pieces around the main structure, the wreck provides numerous openings in its main deck.
The boiler notably rises just above the deck, and both forward and aft sections offer clear entry points for those seeking to explore further. Its interior, though mostly cleared of the original cargo, still contains about two feet of broken glass and mud, with the occasional intact bottle waiting to be found by diligent divers.
Best Time to Dive
Optimal diving conditions generally emerge from late spring through early autumn, specifically from May to August, reflecting improved dive scores. During these months, average air temperatures are more comfortable, ranging from 13.8°C (56.8°F) in May up to 23.9°C (75.0°F) in July, contrasting with the much colder winter averages. Wave heights are typically at their lowest, around 1.06-1.27 m (3.5-4.2 ft), contributing to calmer surface conditions for boat entry. Wind speeds also tend to be lower, creating a more pleasant overall experience. While specific water temperature data is not consistently reported, these months offer the most favorable environmental factors for a rewarding dive at the Lizzie D Wreck. Conditions outside this window, particularly in winter (December-March), are often marked by higher waves and stronger winds, leading to a 'Poor' dive score.
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
Accessing the Lizzie D Wreck is exclusively by boat, typically eight miles offshore, meaning surface conditions can be a factor. The wreck itself rests upright in 80 feet (24 meters) of saltwater, providing a substantial structure for exploration. Once underwater, divers will find a vessel that largely resembles a giant rowboat, characterized by numerous openings across its main deck. Easy penetration is possible through entry points both ahead and astern of the boiler. Inside, the environment is a mix of fine sediment and broken glass, with historical artifacts like intact liquor bottles occasionally unearthed by keen-eyed divers. Visibility can vary, often influenced by recent weather and tidal currents, and can be 'a little lumpy' on the surface, as reported by past divers.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Diving the Lizzie D Wreck demands specific qualifications due to its depth and nature as a wreck site. Divers should hold certifications such as PADI Advanced Open Water Diver, PADI Deep Diver, or PADI Wreck Diver to ensure they possess the necessary skills and experience. The wreck's interior, while offering accessible penetration, contains a layer of broken glass and mud, which requires careful buoyancy control and awareness to avoid disturbance and potential injury. Following established wreck diving protocols is essential, including maintaining proper trim, carrying appropriate lighting for interior exploration, and being mindful of potential entanglement hazards. Always dive with a buddy and ensure you have a surface marker buoy for safe ascent and surface signaling.
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
Recent conditions suggest the water at Lizzie D Wreck remains near 10°C (49°F), offering typical conditions for the area. Surface air temperatures are resting at 10°C (49°F).
Forecast models indicate that diving conditions should remain largely unchanged.
In water temperatures like these, drysuit (strongly recommended) typically offers sufficient warmth for most recreational dives. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Strong cold advisory: dress warmly immediately after exiting the water. Some divers naturally tolerate cooler water better than others. Surface intervals may feel noticeably cooler once you exit the water.
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 Lizzie D Wreck
The Lizzie D Wreck has evolved into an artificial reef, drawing in a variety of marine inhabitants that seek shelter and foraging grounds within its structure. The nooks and crannies of the upright hull and scattered deck debris create an inviting habitat for resident fish species and invertebrates. While specific encounters vary by season and local conditions, the rich waters surrounding the wreck can occasionally present opportunities to observe larger pelagic creatures, including sharks, whales, dolphins, and turtles, as they traverse the offshore environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth of the Lizzie D Wreck?
The Lizzie D Wreck rests in 80 feet (24 meters) of water. This depth makes it suitable for divers with advanced training and experience.
What is the history of the Lizzie D?
The Lizzie D was an 84-foot tugboat that sank on October 19, 1922. It later gained notoriety as 'The Rum Runner' when divers in 1977 discovered crates of illegal liquor, confirming its role in Prohibition-era smuggling.
Can divers penetrate the wreck?
Yes, the wreck has openings ahead and astern of the boiler that allow for easy penetration. The interior contains broken glass and mud, so careful buoyancy and appropriate training, like PADI Wreck Diver, are essential.
What kind of marine life can be seen at the wreck?
The wreck acts as an artificial reef, attracting various fish and invertebrates. Larger marine life such as sharks, whales, dolphins, and turtles may also be sighted in the surrounding open water, depending on the season.
What training is recommended for this dive site?
Due to its depth and the nature of wreck diving, PADI Advanced Open Water Diver, PADI Deep Diver, and PADI Wreck Diver certifications are highly recommended. Tec 40/45/50 training is also listed as useful.
Are there any artifacts still on the wreck?
While most of the original cargo of liquor bottles is gone, lucky divers exploring the interior and surrounding seabed have occasionally found intact bottles, usually empty with the cork forced inside.
When is the best time to dive the Lizzie D Wreck?
The period from May to August generally offers the best diving conditions, with warmer air temperatures, lower wave heights, and reduced wind speeds, contributing to a more comfortable dive experience. Winter months present challenging conditions.
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