Diving

A scuba diver approaches a yellow sponge underwater — Marine life, like sponges, are what attracts scuba divers to Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary. Photo: Greg McFall/NOAA

Diving happens here! Advanced divers who make a 65-foot dive at Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary will be amazed by the vivid colors of its soft corals and sponges. This natural live-bottom reef provides wonders for divers, boaters, and anglers.

As a reminder, fishing and diving is prohibited in the Research Area.

Diving Charters

Grays' Reef National Marine Sanctuary does not endorse or promote individual businesses or clubs, but to our knowledge the following are charters that currently may offer dive trips to Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary:

If you are a dive shop or charter who takes trips to Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary and would like to be added to our list, please contact us at graysreef@noaa.gov.

Two people fish from a boat on the ocean

Diving Best Practices

Make the most out of your diving trip to Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary.

A scuba diver observes a white finger sponge while diving on a reef.

Notable Dives

The live bottom at Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary attracts a number of unique species. These notable dives can help direct those looking to explore.

A dozen fish swim near rocky ledges of an underwater reef.

Diving at Gray's Reef

Gray's Reef is teeming with marine life一from loggerhead sea turtles that rest at the reef, to the more than 200 unique species of fishes and sharks and 900 species of invertebrates. With the abundance of marine life, the sights and sounds while scuba diving are also unique to the region.