

Best for advanced divers, 12-20m, boat entry, strong current.
Castle Rock is a reef and pinnacle site located off Portsea, Australia. The topography features a wall and reef structure at depths between 12 and 20 metres. This site is defined by strong tidal currents flowing through Port Phillip Heads, necessitating dives timed strictly for slack water. Visibility typically ranges from 5 to 15 metres. Due to the challenging currents and potential for significant swell, this site is suitable only for advanced divers. Water temperatures fluctuate between 13C and 19C, making a 7mm wetsuit or drysuit essential. Boat access is required for all dives, which generally last around 45 minutes.
-38.29833, 144.59778
The site is named after a quartet of enormous barrel sponges located on the east end of Sandy Bay.
Access is via dive charter boats, typically departing from Queenscliff or Portsea. The site is located just outside Port Phillip Heads.
Recorded at this site
Depth
12-20m
Visibility
5-15m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
13-19°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jun, Jul, Jul, Aug, Aug, Sep, Sep, Oct, Oct, Nov, Dec
No, this site is for advanced divers only due to the strong tidal currents and potential for significant swell.
The site ranges from 12 to 20 metres, with an average depth of 16 metres.
Castle Rock is a boat-only dive site located outside Port Phillip Heads.
Snorkelling is not recommended at Castle Rock due to the strong currents and depth.
The site can be dived throughout the year, with conditions best managed by timing dives around slack water regardless of the month.
Diving at Castle Rock in Melbourne requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Castle Rock in Melbourne. Water temperatures range from 13°C to 19°C.
Castle Rock in Melbourne can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at Castle Rock in Melbourne typically ranges from 5 metres to 15 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.