Scuba Diving in Victoria, Australia
Victoria, located in the southeastern part of Australia, offers some fantastic diving experiences for scuba divers of all levels. From exploring the waters around Melbourne to diving in the marine parks in the southern part of the state, there's something for everyone.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers:
- Portsea Hole: This deep dive site is located off the coast of Port Phillip Bay and is suitable for experienced divers. The dive site offers a series of canyons, walls, and overhangs to explore, along with a diverse range of marine life, including rays, cuttlefish, and schools of fish.
- Flinders Pier: Located on the Mornington Peninsula, this pier dive site is ideal for experienced divers who are interested in exploring the diverse marine life found in the shallow waters. You can spot nudibranchs, octopus, seahorses, and even the elusive weedy seadragon here.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners:
- Blairgowrie Pier: This pier dive site located on the Mornington Peninsula is a great spot for beginners. With shallow depths and easy access, it's the perfect spot for a first-time diver. You can see a variety of fish, including colorful wrasse and schools of baitfish.
- Rye Pier: Another great pier dive site, Rye Pier is located on the Mornington Peninsula and offers easy access and shallow depths. You can see a variety of marine life, including seahorses, stingrays, and squid.
Marine Life:
Victoria's waters are home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful nudibranchs, schools of fish, octopus, and even weedy seadragons. You may also see rays, cuttlefish, and sharks on deeper dives.
Dive Conditions:
Dive conditions in Victoria can vary depending on the location and time of year. Water temperatures range from 12-20°C (54-68°F) throughout the year, so a drysuit is recommended for most dives. Visibility can range from 5-20 meters (16-66 feet) depending on the location and weather conditions.
Cost:
The cost of diving in Victoria varies depending on the location and dive operator. A single shore dive can range from $50-$100, while a boat dive can range from $100-$200. Rental equipment is usually available for an additional fee.
