Scuba Diving in Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania, located south of mainland Australia, is a popular destination for scuba diving due to its diverse marine life and unique underwater landscapes. There are several great diving spots around the island, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers:
- Tasman Island - a remote location for experienced divers with good visibility, large underwater caves, and abundant marine life, including seals, dolphins, and sharks.
- Betsey Island - a popular dive site with excellent visibility, diverse marine life, and a range of depths for all skill levels.
- Three Hummock Island - a remote dive site with a large variety of marine life, including colorful sponges and sea fans, and the opportunity to see schools of fish and reef sharks.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners:
- Tinderbox Marine Reserve - a protected reserve with calm waters, great visibility, and diverse marine life, including seahorses, octopuses, and colorful fish.
- Fortescue Bay - a sheltered bay with easy entry and exit points, a diverse range of marine life, and interesting underwater rock formations.
- Waterfall Bay - a shallow, sheltered bay with calm waters, perfect for first-time divers. It offers good visibility and the opportunity to see colorful fish, crabs, and other marine life.
About the Marine Life:
Tasmania's marine life is diverse and includes a range of unique species, such as the weedy seadragon, Tasmanian rock lobster, and giant kelp forests. Divers can also see a variety of sharks, dolphins, seals, and colorful fish. The waters around Tasmania are rich with marine life and provide a unique underwater experience.
Dive Conditions:
Diving in Tasmania is possible year-round, but the water temperature can vary between 8°C and 18°C, depending on the season. The best time to dive is during the summer months of December to February when the water is warmer. Divers should be aware of strong currents, especially around the exposed areas, and should be comfortable with cold water diving.
Cost:
The cost of scuba diving in Tasmania varies depending on the dive operator and location. Expect to pay between $100 to $200 for a single dive, including equipment rental. Certification courses start at around $400 for an Open Water Diver course.
