

Best for intermediate divers, 16-28m, boat entry, moderate current.
Blacksmiths Artificial Reef is an artificial structure located 3500 metres off Caves Beach, Australia. Resting at depths between 16 and 28 metres, the site is suited for intermediate divers. Access is by boat only, and divers should be prepared for moderate currents and potential entanglement hazards around the structure. Visibility varies significantly, reaching up to 25 metres. Marine life commonly observed includes spotted wobbegong, wrasses, and schooling yellowtail scad and blue mackerel. Less frequent sightings include grey nurse sharks, giant cuttlefish, eastern blue groper, and blue devilfish. Larger predators such as yellowtail kingfish, silver trevally, mulloway, and snapper are also attracted to the reef.
-33.08050, 151.67050
Time your dive around slack water to manage the current and improve your chances of holding position near the structure where the pelagics concentrate. Check current conditions locally before heading out, as visibility and flow can shift significantly between dives.
Boat dive only. Accessed by private boat or charter from Newcastle, Swansea, or Norah Head.
Recorded at this site
Depth
16-28m
Visibility
Up to 25m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
18-22°C
Current
Moderate
Best Time
Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct, Nov
Divers frequently encounter spotted wobbegong, wrasses, and schools of yellowtail scad and blue mackerel. Other species recorded include grey nurse sharks, giant cuttlefish, eastern blue groper, blue devilfish, and various rays and moray eels.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the moderate currents, potential for entanglement, and the requirement for precise buoyancy control.
The depth at Blacksmiths Artificial Reef ranges from 16 to 28 metres, with an average depth of 22 metres.
This is a boat-only dive site located 3500 metres from the shore.
Due to the depth of the reef and the presence of moderate currents, this site is intended for scuba diving rather than snorkelling.
Water temperatures range from 18C to 22C throughout the year. Divers should expect moderate currents and visibility that can fluctuate from near-zero to 25 metres.
Diving at Blacksmiths Artificial Reef in Swansea requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Blacksmiths Artificial Reef in Swansea. Water temperatures range from 18°C to 22°C.
The best months to visit Blacksmiths Artificial Reef in Swansea are April, May, June, September, October, and November. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.