Southeast Reef

Best months: Aug–Oct

Protected Area

Port Hebert Migratory Bird Sanctuary

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 - Southeast 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

Southeast Reef off Nova Scotia won't give you tropical warmth, but it offers a genuinely compelling cold-water dive. We've often found ourselves drifting along the rocky ledges, eyes peeled for the distinctive, prehistoric lumpsucker clinging to the kelp, or a hulking American lobster peeking from a crevice. The site is a feeding ground for various fish like haddock and saithe, and on a lucky day, you might even spot a common minke whale passing through the deeper sections. It's a dive best suited for those who appreciate the robust beauty of North Atlantic marine life and don't mind the chill, offering a raw, unpretentious look at a vibrant ecosystem.

Safety Notes

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

Today06:2917:4711h 18m daylightGolden hour 17:09

Reviews for Southeast Reef

Conditions

Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Southeast Reef

Southeast Reef Ocean Conditions

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