

Best for intermediate divers, 10-18m, boat entry, mild current.
Grey Nurse Gutters is a network of channels and canyons carved through the reef system at South Solitary Island. The site features sandy channels between rocky walls, ranging in depth from 10 to 18 metres with an average of 12 metres. Divers navigate these gutters by boat, experiencing mild currents and visibility between 10 and 30 metres. Thermoclines may occur due to the mixing of tropical and temperate waters. This site is suited for intermediate divers who possess solid buoyancy control to navigate the narrow channels and rocky structures without contact. The area is remote and offshore, requiring boat access for all dives.
-30.20163, 153.26703
June through August gives you the best chance of finding grey nurses congregating in the gutters, as cooler water draws them in closer. Brief your group before entry on maintaining distance and slow movements around the sharks, as crowding the gutters will cause them to disperse.
The site is accessed via a 30-40 minute boat trip from Coffs Harbour. The primary operator is Jetty Dive, which departs from the public pontoon at the Coffs Harbour International Marina.
Recorded at this site
Depth
10-18m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
20-26°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Jun, Jul, Aug
The site is known for aggregations of grey nurse sharks, which congregate in the gutters. Other marine life includes wobbegongs, loggerhead turtles, kingfish, silver trevally, jewfish, blue groper, giant cuttlefish, bull rays, and eagle rays.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers. It requires solid buoyancy control to navigate the channels and rocky walls without disturbing the marine life or touching the reef.
The depth ranges from 10 to 18 metres, with an average depth of 12 metres.
This is a boat-only dive site located approximately 15.7 kilometres from the shore.
June, July, and August are the best months to dive here, as cooler water temperatures draw grey nurse sharks into the gutters.
Diving at Grey Nurse Gutters in Coffs Harbour requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Grey Nurse Gutters in Coffs Harbour. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Grey Nurse Gutters in Coffs Harbour. Water temperatures range from 20°C to 26°C.
Divers at Grey Nurse Gutters in Coffs Harbour should be aware of sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Grey Nurse Gutters in Coffs Harbour typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Grey Nurse Gutters in Coffs Harbour typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.