Diving atRobby Redding Memorial Reef #1 (United States)
Successfully navigating Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1 demands an understanding of its unique artificial structures and their placement across several distinct sites. While the reef offers ample opportunity for exploration, divers should anticipate conditions typical of a Gulf artificial reef, requiring awareness of currents and local boat traffic. Planning your dive effectively ensures an enjoyable and respectful experience at this memorial site.
As evening covers Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1, the local air temperature is measured at 21.9°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.56m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Coordinates
29.6600, -84.5003
Dive Site Overview
Beneath the waters of the Gulf, off the coast of Carrabelle, Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1 unfolds as a deeply personal tribute and thriving marine habitat. This site represents one of eight distinct areas composing the larger Robby’s Reef system, deployed over three years approximately 10 nautical miles from Dog Island in the Carrabelle 10 Mile area.
Reaching a maximum depth of 15 m (50 ft), it provides a recreational depth range for many certified divers. Five Walter Florida Limestone Reef Modules define this particular site, deployed on May 5, 2011, as part of a lasting memorial to Robby Redding.
These structures, including cone-shaped concrete and limestone formations, are designed to enhance the otherwise sandy seafloor, offering crucial shelter. Beyond this specific memorial, the broader reef system integrates elements like concrete culverts and various precast fish habitats and grouper boxes, creating diverse micro-environments for marine life, fostering nurseries and foraging grounds across the otherwise sandy bottom.
These sustained efforts collectively enhance the Gulf's biological productivity and provide continued diving interest.
Best Time to Dive
While many Gulf Coast dive sites offer seasonal appeal, identifying optimal conditions for Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1 involves evaluating typical weather patterns. During the warmer months, specifically from May through September, conditions generally improve, showing 'Good' dive scores. Air temperatures range from 24.5°C (76°F) in May to 28.8°C (84°F) in August, coinciding with lower average wave heights and reduced wind speeds, making surface conditions more comfortable. September typically sees the highest average rainfall at 7.87 mm, which might affect surface intervals, though monthly dive scores remain consistently 'Good' throughout the year. Winter months, from December to March, present cooler air temperatures between 12.9°C (55°F) and 17.7°C (64°F), alongside potentially choppier surface conditions due to higher average wave heights.
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
Descending onto Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1 provides an experience shaped by its deliberate design and prevailing Gulf currents. The site's primary draw is its collection of five Walter Florida Limestone Reef Modules, engineered to create complex shelter and foraging opportunities at a maximum depth of 15 m (50 ft). Visibility varies depending on local weather and plankton blooms, typical of Gulf waters, but clear days allow for good appreciation of the structures. Water temperature is not consistently reported for this specific site but generally reflects seasonal Gulf patterns, ranging from cooler in winter to warm in summer. Moderate currents can be present, especially around the structures, requiring divers to maintain good buoyancy control and situational awareness. This artificial reef offers an engaging dive for certified divers comfortable with open water conditions.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Ensuring a safe dive at Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1 requires proactive planning, particularly regarding local boat traffic and potential fishing lines. As a popular fishing location, divers should remain vigilant for fishing vessels and secure any loose equipment to prevent entanglement. Planning for a surface marker buoy (SMB) deployment is advisable to signal your position to boats. Since the reef consists of artificial structures, exploring penetrable areas, such as culverts, should only be attempted by divers with appropriate training and equipment for overhead environments. Always dive within your certification limits and consider the prevailing currents. Regular buddy checks and a thorough dive plan contribute significantly to overall safety.
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
Current diving conditions indicate water temperatures around 23°C (73°F) at Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1. Surface air temperatures are resting at 22°C (71°F).
Forecast models indicate that diving conditions should remain largely unchanged.
In water temperatures like these, 3-5mm wetsuit typically offers sufficient warmth for most recreational dives. Surface intervals may feel cooler. Some divers naturally tolerate cooler water better than others.
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 Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1
The complex architecture of Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1 has successfully cultivated a diverse ecosystem, attracting various Gulf species. Artificial structures, including the Walter Florida Limestone Reef Modules and nearby culverts, provide crucial refuge for a variety of fish, transforming the sandy bottom into a vibrant habitat. Divers often encounter schools of baitfish, which in turn draw larger predatory species. Many species of grouper and snapper utilize the nooks and crannies of the reef for shelter, especially within the precast fish habitats. Keep an eye out for smaller invertebrates such as crabs and shrimp finding homes among the limestone formations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1?
This site is one of eight distinct artificial reef areas making up the larger Robby's Reef system, created as a memorial to Robby Redding. It serves as an active habitat for marine life and a dive site.
What kind of structures are found at this specific reef site?
Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1 primarily features five Walter Florida Limestone Reef Modules. These are cone-shaped concrete and limestone structures designed to provide habitat for various marine species.
How deep is Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1?
Reaching a maximum depth of 15 m (50 ft), the reef is accessible for most recreational divers, including Open Water certified individuals.
Where is Robby Redding Memorial Reef #1 located?
The reef is situated in the Carrabelle 10 Mile area of the Gulf, approximately 10 nautical miles from Dog Island. Its coordinates are Lat 29 39.600, Longitude: 84 30.016.
What type of marine life can be observed here?
The artificial structures attract a variety of Gulf species, including various fish, grouper, and snapper. Smaller invertebrates like crabs are also commonly found taking refuge within the reef's crevices.
Is this reef suitable for all levels of divers?
This reef is generally suitable for certified recreational divers comfortable with open water conditions and potential currents. Specialized training is recommended for exploring any overhead environments within the structures.
How was Robby's Reef funded and created?
Robby's Reef was funded through a music festival called Robby’s Reef Fun’Raiser, organized by Robby's family and community. The project took three years to deploy, with assistance from the Organization for Artificial Reefs (OAR) for permitting and deployment.
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