Diving North Carolina in June

[Alan D]

We are planning a dive trip to Southport NC next June and I am curious about what to wear. We are from Western Canada and typically dive the mountain lakes (30's, 40's, 50's) and BC coast (40's and 50's) - all dry suit diving. I have read a lot about how warm the water is but still - it's not the Caribbean so is a 3mm enough or do you need more, in mid June?

 

[Steve_C]

It depends a little on where you are diving. In June the offshore stuff will be a bit warmer than the stuff closer in. I checked over the spread sheet version of my log for the last 10 years. These are dives in 60-100 fsw 14-26 miles offshore from Wrightsville which is close to Southport. Talking about maybe 20 data points. It varies by the year but the coldest I show is 71 at the start of June on June 1
1.

By the middle of June it is typically 73-74 and at the end of June it is anywhere from 74-78. Note that sometimes there can be a thermocline so you might see 78 in the top layer and 72 or 73 at the bottom layer.

Personally that time of year I dive a 5mm with a beanie but no hood. But then I like to go slow and look for stuff. I also like to be warm on dive 2.

You will see some 3s and some 5s that time of year. Depends on your cold tolerance and activity level.

Note you will have longer boat rides 1-2+ hours depending on destination. Air can be warm or cool in June. You may want to bring something for the boat. I carry a very lightweight rains suit. If I toss that over the wetsuit it stops the evaporation and makes it warm again.

Lots of good diving in NC.

 

[Alan D]

Steve,

Thanks very much for your reply. Most helpful. We will be diving wrecks offshore in the most southern part of NC (Wilminton/ Southport) so it looks like a 5 mil is lots. I may bring my 3mil just in case its too much. Once again - thanks for your input.

rgds

Alan

 

[tbone1004]

3mm with a good hood or a hooded vest will be fine if you're acclimated to cold water. Personal preference

 

[Steve_C]

Enjoy the dives.

 

[GreggS]

The past couple of years, the water temps off the southern coast off NC have been rather warm. Mid to upper 70s in June and low 80s in early July. I dove just 10 miles offshore in 60 fsw both years. wearing a 3mm and it was fine for me. My wife dove with an Ultra 1mm and she hates being cold.

I would think if you're used to Canadian waters, you'll tolerate the Carolina coast with no problem in a 3.

Have fun.

 

[100days-a-year]

79 right now,it's been a good summer.I wear 3 or 5mil and hood as I'm often poking around.