Fish Rock Cave, arguably Australia’s premier shark and cave dive, boasts a spot among the world’s top 50 dive sites and stands as the sole authentic ocean cave dive destination in the country. Situated just 2km off the coast in the township of South West Rocks, this remarkable 125m cave, or swim-through, spans from one end of Fish Rock to the other.
The entrance near the surface lies a mere 12m down, while the deeper entry point plunges to 24m beneath the water’s surface. Apart from the cave’s allure, a standout feature of this dive location is the thriving population of grey nurse sharks that call it home year-round. During the summer months, these grey nurse sharks frequently find repose in the shallow cave entrance, adorned by vibrant pink gorgonian corals that offer a splendid backdrop for stunning photos.
Encircling Fish Rock Island, the water depth varies between 15 and 30 meters, with deep gutters serving as natural gathering spots for sharks and numerous other marine creatures that reside here. This dive adventure caters to individuals of all scuba diving proficiency levels. Certified divers have the option to book day tours, featuring two dives, or opt for extended multiple-day tours, complete with accommodation.
Fish Rock Island attracts a rich array of marine life, including Manta Rays, Eagle Rays, Turtles, a diverse range of pelagic fish, and occasionally, substantial schools of Hammer Head Sharks.
This dive site holds a prominent place in the critical habitat protection program of NSW, acknowledged, published, and safeguarded for its exceptional value. Undoubtedly, it ranks among Australia’s ‘best’ and ‘must-visit’ dive destinations.
Encountering these endangered grey nurse sharks up close is entirely feasible as they gracefully patrol the sandy channel at the cave’s entrance. The longer you remain still, the closer they approach. Within the cave, a labyrinth of horizontal and vertical twists reveals pockets teeming with unique and varied marine life.
From my firsthand experience, a single day may prove insufficient to fully savour the beauty of these elegant sharks and the cave itself. Therefore, I highly recommend if you can dedicating two days, four dives at this dive site.
Your day will encompass double dives thoughtfully selected to match the divers’ experience levels and daily conditions. Both Fish Rock Cave and the Grey Nurse Sharks hold top priority, drawing divers from afar. Fish Rock Cave accommodates divers of all skill levels, with our proficient Dive Masters and Instructors guiding each dive.
Accommodation
There is share or private accommodation available. Share consists of bunk/dorm style 2 x 6 bed dorms, large self-contained kitchen, living area with TV & air-conditioning. Private is a fully self-contained house featuring 4 bedrooms (2 rooms have queen beds, 1 large room has 1 queen and 1 single bed, the other room 2 single beds) 2 x lounge room and kitchen/dining. The accommodation is a relaxing walk to restaurants, pubs and the beach; the dive shop is located downstairs.
South West Rocks Dive centre is located on the main street of South West Rocks (98 Gregory St) next door to the United petrol station. You will need to be at the dive centre to start gearing up by 7:30am for an 8:00am departure. All dives are double dives unless other arrangements are made at the time of booking.
Note: Pick-ups can be organised from the town of Kempsey – $20.00 per person. The dive centre provide a pick-up service and will pick you up at Kempsey and transport you back to South West Rocks (25mins drive).
Customers travelling via bus or train and require a pick up service, please contact us for pick up times.
Morning Dive
Depart – 8.00am (Approximately)
Dives finish – 1.00pm – 1.30pm (Approximately)
Return to dive centre mid afternoon
Afternoon Dive
Depart – 10.30am – 11.30am (Approximately)
Dives finish – 4.30pm – 5.00pm (Approximately)
Return to dive centre late afternoon
Note: Above itinerary is repeated for multiple days booked
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