

Best for intermediate divers, 10-20m, boat entry, moderate current.
Cleaner Station is a diverse marine site located off the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. This boat-accessed location features a complex topography of reefs, walls, and caves at depths between 10 and 20 metres. The site is subject to moderate currents, making it suitable for drift dives, though conditions can be unpredictable as currents swing around the island. Visibility typically ranges from 10 to 30 metres. Due to the presence of strong currents and boat traffic, this site is best suited for intermediate divers. Divers should remain close to their group during ascents and deploy a surface marker buoy to ensure visibility to passing vessels.
-30.20203, 153.26823
Time your dive to arrive at the site as the current picks up rather than at peak flow, as the sharks tend to be most active and positioned at the cleaner station during that transition. Given the boat traffic around South Solitary Island, stay close to your group on ascent and deploy your SMB well before surfacing.
Located on the northern side of South Solitary Island, accessible by a 15 to 20 minute boat trip from Coffs Harbour.
Recorded at this site
Depth
10-20m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
20-26°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Year-round
The site ranges from 10 to 20 metres deep, with an average depth of 15 metres.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the moderate, sometimes unpredictable currents and the requirement for boat access.
Yes, snorkelling is possible at Cleaner Station, though it is primarily a boat-accessed dive site with a snorkel rating of 3/5.
The site can be visited year-round, with water temperatures ranging from 20C in winter to 26C in summer.
Hazards include boat traffic, strong and unpredictable currents, and the presence of sharks.
Yes, Cleaner Station in Coffs Harbour is a boat-access-only dive site. You will need to book with a local dive operator or charter a boat to reach it.
Yes, parking is available near Cleaner Station. Arrive early during peak seasons as spaces can fill up quickly.
Diving at Cleaner Station in Coffs Harbour requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Cleaner Station in Coffs Harbour. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Cleaner Station in Coffs Harbour. Water temperatures range from 20°C to 26°C.
Expect moderate currents at Cleaner Station in Coffs Harbour. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Cleaner Station in Coffs Harbour typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.