Macdonald Reef

Best months: Aug–Oct

Protected Area

Scallop Buffer Zone (SFA 24)

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 - Macdonald 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

Macdonald Reef sits off Nova Scotia, a cooler dive that’s full of character. We often find ourselves cruising along the rocky ledges, keeping an eye out for the resident lumpsuckers – they’re always a favourite, perfectly camouflaged against the seabed. You’ll also spot plenty of those classic North Atlantic fish, like long rough dabs and Atlantic tomcod, darting through the kelp. It’s a good spot for divers who appreciate the subtler beauty of a temperate reef, a definite change of pace from the tropics.

Safety Notes

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

Today06:2117:3611h 15m daylightGolden hour 16:55

Reviews for Macdonald Reef

Conditions

Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Macdonald Reef

Macdonald Reef Ocean Conditions

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