

Best for beginner divers, boat entry.
Cape Hotham is a reef site located off Elcho Island, offering shallow waters suitable for beginner divers. Access to the site is exclusively by boat. The topography consists of coral gardens that provide habitat for various reef fish and sea turtles. Conditions at this location are variable, with shifting visibility and currents, requiring attention to local briefings before entry. Water temperatures remain tropical throughout the year, ranging from 25C to 31C. Visitors should exercise extreme caution regarding marine life, as crocodiles are known to inhabit waterways in the East Arnhem region. The most reliable conditions for diving occur during the dry season months of June through September.
-11.78330, 135.85000
Visit during the June to September dry season for the most reliable conditions, and always check current local reports before your boat trip as visibility and currents can shift quickly in this area.
Access is via boat. Elcho Island is a remote Aboriginal community and permits may be required from the Northern Land Council to visit the island, its beaches, and to go fishing.
No known hazards
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
25-31°C
Best Time
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Divers may encounter sea turtles and a variety of reef fish inhabiting the coral gardens.
Yes, the shallow waters at Cape Hotham provide a comfortable environment for beginner divers.
Cape Hotham is a boat-only dive site; you must arrange for boat transport to reach the reef.
Snorkelling is not recommended at this site, with a rating of 1/5.
The best window for visiting is during the dry season from June through September, when conditions are more settled.
Crocodiles are known to inhabit waterways in the East Arnhem region, and extreme caution is advised.
Diving at Cape Hotham, Elcho Island in Nhulunbuy requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Cape Hotham, Elcho Island in Nhulunbuy. Water temperatures range from 25°C to 31°C.