About Revisions Necton Pilot Destin, FL More Info Max Depth: 121-130ft/37-40m Entry Type: Boat Bottom Composition: Sand Aquatic Life: Might See Something Summer: 76-80°F/24-27°C Winter: 66-70°F/19-21°C 10/23/2025 9:11 PM LatitudeAdjustment

The Nekton Pilot, an 80-foot former scuba diving liveaboard, has found new life beneath the surface as part of the artificial reef system off Destin and Fort Walton Beach. The vessel, once known to divers across the Caribbean for its catamaran-style design and extended-range expeditions, was deployed offshore on October 15 as the “Ted Forsgren Nekton Pilot Reef,”
The project is part of the Okaloosa County Artificial Reef Program, led by Natural Resources Chief Alex Fogg. Fogg confirmed the deployment on social media, calling it “another successful addition to our growing artificial reef network.” The Nekton Pilot now rests roughly 16 miles offshore in about 130 feet of water, creating new habitat for grouper, snapper, and pelagic species while offering a fresh dive site for experienced Gulf divers.