

Best for advanced divers, 6-19m, boat entry, moderate current.
The Gardens is a reef site located off the Western Port Bay side of Phillip Island, Australia. This boat-accessible dive features depths ranging from 6 to 19 metres, with an average depth of 13 metres. The site is exposed to open ocean conditions, resulting in moderate currents and surge that require advanced buoyancy control and situational awareness. Due to its exposure, the site is only diveable during periods of very calm swell. Divers should plan their visits around slack tide to manage the current effectively. While the site is suitable for snorkelling, the variable conditions and potential for strong currents make it best suited for experienced divers.
-38.54150, 145.34280
Time your dive around slack tide to manage the current, and keep an eye on swell forecasts as surge can make working the reef difficult even when the current looks manageable. Check locally for current facility availability before heading out.
Access is via boat. The site can only be accessed when the swell is "dead flat" due to its exposed location. Dive charters may be available from nearby towns on the Mornington Peninsula like Sorrento or Queenscliff.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Depth
6-19m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
13-19°C
Current
Moderate
The site ranges from 6 to 19 metres in depth, with an average depth of 13 metres.
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to the exposure to open ocean conditions, moderate currents, and surge.
Access is by boat only. The site is difficult to reach and requires very calm conditions to be diveable.
Yes, the site has a snorkel rating of 4 out of 5, though conditions can be challenging due to surge and currents.
The primary hazards are strong currents and surge caused by the site's exposure to open ocean swell.
Diving at The Gardens in Phillip Island requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at The Gardens in Phillip Island. Water temperatures range from 13°C to 19°C.
Expect moderate currents at The Gardens in Phillip Island. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.