capeanntrailstewards.org · Community
Local trail steward page on the park size, private-land note and access guidance.
Wooded access to granite ledges and a narrow cut make this an experienced New England shore dive with serious tide, swell and exit timing.
About Rafes Chasm
Rafes Chasm is a dramatic New England shore dive off Gloucester's Magnolia coast, reached by a wooded walk to a rocky chasm in the granite ledges. The site rewards experienced divers with a giant-stride entry option, ledges and boulders, and a lively mix of bass, lobsters and other ledge life, but it demands careful tide and swell timing because exits can become difficult fast. It is a local, hands-on shore dive rather than a relaxed swim spot.
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Research Estimate At Rafes Chasm
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
AccessChallenging entry effort
Aquatic LifeGreat variety
FacilitiesLimited facilities
Crowd / PopularityFew visitors
CurrentLight current
SurgeStrong surge
Where Is Rafes Chasm?
This spotNearby spotsExplore nearby spots on the map
Community sourced coordinates.
Rafes Chasm Planning Details
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
0m - 15.2m
Depth Note
Reported max depth is about 50 FSW, or around 15 m, on the main dive route.
Best Season
Between the tides, ideally around high tide when winds are light from the north.
Typical Conditions
Exposed open-ocean granite shore with quick-building swell and slippery exits.
Safety & Access At Rafes Chasm
Site conditions, restrictions, and access requirements.
Site Conditions
Restricted accessSurge
Safety Notes
Go only when the tide and swell are suitable, and carry a cutter if fishing lines are present.
Access Restrictions
Shore access only; plan on the wooded walk, rocky shoreline and careful tide timing. Some surrounding land is private.
Legal Notes
Observe private-property postings and stay on the park access path rather than wandering onto adjacent private shoreline.
Local Intel For Rafes Chasm
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Advanced shore dive with a protected entry pool, granite ledges and a demanding rocky exit.
Freediving
Not recommended as a freedive site because the surf, ledges and exit demands are high.
Snorkeling
Casual snorkeling is secondary here; the shoreline is better suited to tidepool viewing and experienced shore diving.
Wildlife at Rafes Chasm
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Recent Logged Visits At Rafes Chasm
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Dive Spot Log Averages At Rafes Chasm
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
No community dive data has been logged here yet. Be the first to record a dive and seed the averages.
