

Best for advanced divers, boat entry, moderate current.
Kennedy Bay Reefs in Port Essington is a remote reef site requiring boat access. The area is characterised by moderate to strong currents that fluctuate with the tides, necessitating careful planning and situational awareness. Divers should be prepared for variable visibility and potential hazards including jellyfish, high winds, and the presence of crocodiles in the region. The site is suited for advanced divers due to the challenging current conditions. The reef structure supports a variety of tropical marine life and invertebrates typical of the Northern Territory. Divers should coordinate with local boat traffic and aim for the slack tide window to manage the water movement effectively.
-11.21670, 132.09330
Plan your dive around the slack tide window between May and October when conditions are most manageable and sawfish sightings are more likely. Check locally for current boat traffic patterns before entering, as this is an active waterway.
Access is via boat, typically as part of a guided tour or charter operating on the Cobourg Peninsula. The area is within the remote Garig Gunak Barlu National Park.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
26-31°C
Current
Moderate
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
The reef supports a diverse range of tropical reef fish and invertebrates typical of the Northern Territory habitat.
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to the presence of strong currents and remote, challenging conditions.
Snorkelling is possible with a rating of 3/5, though boat access is required and conditions must be carefully monitored.
The best time to dive or snorkel is between May and October when conditions are most manageable.
Access to Kennedy Bay Reefs is by boat only. The site is located in a remote wilderness area.
Significant hazards include strong currents, jellyfish, high winds, and the presence of crocodiles in the region.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Kennedy Bay Reefs in Cobourg Peninsula. Water temperatures range from 26°C to 31°C.
Expect moderate currents at Kennedy Bay Reefs in Cobourg Peninsula. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.