Top Diving Spots
Nuyts Archipelago
Nuyts Archipelago is a scuba divers paradise, a collection of unspoilt islands and reefs on the far west coast of the Eyre Peninsula. The low flat islands extend underwater to shallow rocks covered with diverse and abundant algal communities with seagrasses in sheltered bays. There are many small caves containing an exciting array of soft corals and gorgonians. The islands are home to a world of marine life including Blue Devilfish, Harlequin Fish, Sweep, Southern Rock Lobster, Abalone, Blue Groper and Bottlenose Dolphins. Coral and sponges are also visible in the crystal clear water.
In January 1627 Dutch Explorer Pieter Nuyts recorded the first European sighting of the South Australian coast - a group of 20 islands now called Nuyts Archipelago. Lacey and Evans islands present the most spectacular dives while St Francis Island Group is best for more adventurous divers.
Troubridge Shoals
Part of the passage of water between Kangaroo Island and the Yorke Peninsula known as the Investigator Strait. The shoals hugs the Yorke Peninsula and have been the official cause of at least 35 wrecks and countless groundings. In 1850 alone seven vessels ran aground in an eight-month period.
The reefs surrounding Troubridge Island, part of the Shoals, are home to six of the region's earliest sailing vessels: Dart (1838), Parsee (1838), Sultana (1849), Marion (1851), Charles Carter (1854) and Iron King (1873).
Troubridge Shoals are also home for magnificent giant spider crabs that claw their way over reefs covered in sponges. The whole area is a delight for divers and underwater photographers because of the diversity of marine life in the area.
The safest and most accessible recommended wreck dives are the Iron King and Marion while Troubridge Island is also an interesting area for divers. As the Troubridge Shoals occasionally present treacherous conditions, they are recommended for experienced divers only.
Fleurieu Reef and Ex-HMAS Hobart
The scuttling of ex-HMAS Hobart in late 2002 created The Fleurieu Reef, and is one of Australia's premier diving attractions. Unlike many other naval wrecks, the majority of the ship remains fully intact so divers can explore the engine rooms, mess decks, smoke stacks, missile launchers, gun turrets and bridge area.
The artificial reef is just a 10-minute boat ride from Marina St Vincent on the Fleurieu Peninsula. The Historic Shipwrecks Act 1981 protects the reef and surrounding environment. Divers wishing to dive on the wreck require a permit. Any further information or permit applications refer to the ex HMAS Hobart website.
Free brochure
Read more about diving throughout South Australia in our Diving Experiences fact sheet [PDF 1.9mb].
