

Best for advanced divers, 20-30m, boat entry, moderate current.
By-Pass Reef is a deep-water site located 1000 metres off La Perouse. The reef structure reaches depths of 20 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 26 metres. Divers encounter sponge gardens across the reef, alongside wobbegong, Port Jackson, and nurse sharks resting on the bottom. Eastern blue groper, nudibranchs, and Australian giant cuttlefish are also present. Conditions vary, with visibility ranging from 5 to 20 metres and moderate currents that can strengthen significantly. This site requires boat access and is suited for advanced divers who can manage buoyancy and tidal cycles. Aim for slack water to mitigate current strength during the typical 30-minute dive.
-34.00443, 151.24866
Plan your dive around the tidal cycle and aim for slack water to manage the current, particularly at depth. May and September offer the most reliable conditions at this site.
The site is located 1000 metres off La Perouse and requires boat access.
Recorded at this site
Depth
20-30m
Visibility
5-20m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
18-23°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
30 min
Best Time
May, Sep
Divers can observe sponge gardens, wobbegong, Port Jackson, and nurse sharks, as well as Eastern blue groper, nudibranchs, and Australian giant cuttlefish.
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to the depth, potential for strong currents, and the requirement for solid buoyancy control.
The reef ranges from 20 to 30 metres deep, with an average depth of 26 metres.
This is a boat dive located 1000 metres from the shore; a boat is required to access the site.
May and September offer the most reliable conditions for diving at this site.
Diving at By-Pass Reef in La Perouse requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at By-Pass Reef in La Perouse. Water temperatures range from 18°C to 23°C.
Expect moderate currents at By-Pass Reef in La Perouse. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at By-Pass Reef in La Perouse typically ranges from 5 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.