Cunningham Reef

Best months: Aug–Oct

Protected Area

Blanche Beach Conservation Lands

Why dive here

With 77+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and jellyfish lake - Cunningham Reef offers some of Nova Scotia's richest reef diving. Water ranges 1-17°C, warmest August, September, October.

Best timeAug–Oct

WetsuitA 7mm wetsuit with a hood

Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) and Jellyfish Lake · 77+ species recorded

Water1-17°C · warmest August, September, October

CharacterReef dive

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

Cunningham Reef off Nova Scotia offers a different kind of dive, perfect if you’re looking to explore the North Atlantic's cool water ecosystems. While not a coral reef in the tropical sense, you'll find plenty of life clinging to the rocky structures, including surprisingly colorful star ascidians and the always-entertaining American lobster. Keep an eye out for saithe and haddock cruising by, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a common minke whale passing through the area. This site is great for experienced cold-water divers keen on a unique Canadian perspective.

Safety Notes

Cold water this month (avg 15°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.

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Reviews for Cunningham Reef

Conditions

Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Cunningham Reef

Cunningham Reef Ocean Conditions

Monthly averages for Cunningham Reef, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (44.6, -63.5) (0km away)