

Broughton Island offers a varied underwater terrain of walls, canyons, caves, and reef structures that rewards intermediate divers willing to work with moderate currents. Depths run from 8 to 21 metres in the deeper sections, with visibility typically between 5 and 10 metres. The site is well-regarded for its grey nurse sharks and Port Jackson sharks, which shelter around the rocky structures alongside wobbegong sharks resting on the bottom. Blue groper, groupers, eastern blue devilfish, and trumpetfish move through the reef, while eagle rays and turtles make regular appearances. Surge can be a factor, so solid buoyancy control matters here. Best conditions fall between July and October.
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July through October brings the most reliable shark encounters and cleaner water, so plan your trip around that window. Keep an eye on surge inside the caves and caves entries, and confirm current boat traffic protocols with your operator before heading out.
The island is part of the Myall Lakes National Park and is accessible via a 30-minute boat ride from Nelson Bay or Soldiers Point boat ramp. Several licensed tour operators run dive and snorkel trips.
The site is very exposed to ocean swells and can become extremely "surgey" and undiveable, even in moderate seas. Divers should be cautious of boat traffic. While generally docile, grey nurse sharks are present.
Depth
8-40m
Visibility
5-25m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
18-23°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
56 min
Best Time
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Yes, Broughton Island in Mid North Coast is a boat-access-only dive site. You will need to book with a local dive operator or charter a boat to reach it.
Broughton Island in Mid North Coast is best suited for divers with some experience. You should be comfortable with your buoyancy and have logged at least 10 to 20 dives.
Diving at Broughton Island in Mid North Coast requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Broughton Island in Mid North Coast. Water temperatures range from 18°C to 23°C.
Broughton Island in Mid North Coast is home to grey nurse sharks, wobbegong sharks, turtles, eastern blue devilfish, cuttlefish, and groupers. Marine life sightings vary by season and conditions.
The best months to visit Broughton Island in Mid North Coast are July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Broughton Island in Mid North Coast has depths ranging from 8 metres to 40 metres.
A typical dive at Broughton Island in Mid North Coast lasts approximately 56 minutes. Actual dive time depends on depth, air consumption, and conditions.
Divers at Broughton Island in Mid North Coast should be aware of sharks, jellyfish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Expect moderate currents at Broughton Island in Mid North Coast. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Broughton Island in Mid North Coast typically ranges from 5 metres to 25 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.