

Best for beginner divers, 0m, shore entry.
Port MacDonnell Pier is a shore dive in South Australia that functions as an artificial reef. The pier pylons support a dense community of bryozoans, hydroids, soft corals, and gorgonian corals. Divers can explore the structure to find crayfish and feather stars among the growth. The site is shallow and calm, making it suitable for beginners, though visibility can be limited by silt. Water temperatures remain cold year-round, ranging from 14C to 18C, necessitating at least a 5mm wetsuit. Divers should exercise caution regarding potential entanglement on jetty piles and debris. A torch is recommended to inspect the darker corners of the pylons.
-38.05490, 140.70150
Bring a torch even during the day, as the underside of the pier and darker corners of the pylons are where the weedy sea dragons and crayfish tend to sit. Cold water is a constant here year-round, so a wetsuit of at least 5mm is strongly recommended.
The dive site is the jetty in the town of Port MacDonnell. Access is from the shore.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Depth
0m
Visibility
0m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
14-18°C
Current
None
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Year-round
The pier pylons host a dense community of bryozoans, hydroids, soft corals, and gorgonian corals, along with crayfish and feather stars.
Yes, the site is shallow and calm with no current, making it approachable for beginners.
Port MacDonnell Pier is a shore dive.
The water is cold year-round, ranging between 14C and 18C, so appropriate thermal protection is required.
Diving is possible year-round from January through December.
Diving at Port MacDonnell Pier in Mount Gambier requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Port MacDonnell Pier in Mount Gambier. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Port MacDonnell Pier in Mount Gambier. Water temperatures range from 14°C to 18°C.
A typical dive at Port MacDonnell Pier in Mount Gambier lasts approximately 50 minutes. Actual dive time depends on depth, air consumption, and conditions.