

Best for intermediate divers, 1-40m, boat entry, strong current.
Clerke Reef is a remote site in the Rowley Shoals, featuring dramatic near-vertical walls that drop from the shallows to 40 metres. The topography includes caverns that provide shelter from strong tidal currents, which are a defining feature of the area. Divers and snorkellers experience high-speed drift dives along the reef face. Visibility is highly variable, ranging from near-zero to 50 metres. Due to the strong currents and remote location, this site is suited for intermediate divers with solid buoyancy control. Access is by boat only, with charters typically operating from Broome. The habitat supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates throughout the wall and cavern structures.
-17.31667, 119.35000
August through October brings the most reliable visibility and the best chance of pelagic encounters, so plan your charter accordingly. Always confirm current direction with your skipper before descending, as the drift can move fast and the deep wall gives you less margin for error than it might appear.
Access is by liveaboard charter boat only, typically departing from Broome, Western Australia. The journey takes approximately 12 hours.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Depth
Up to 40m
Visibility
0-50m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
26-30°C
Current
Strong
Best Time
Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
The habitat supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates throughout the wall and cavern structures.
No, this site is suited for intermediate divers. The strong tidal currents and remote location require drift diving experience and solid buoyancy control.
The site features walls that drop from the shallows to 40 metres, with an average depth of 12 metres.
Yes, snorkelling is possible at Clerke Reef, though the site is primarily accessed by boat and requires awareness of strong currents.
The best months to visit are August, September, October, November, and December.
No, Clerke Reef is 300 kilometres from the nearest shore and requires boat access via charter.
Diving at Clerke Reef in Islands requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Clerke Reef in Islands. Water temperatures range from 26°C to 30°C.
Clerke Reef in Islands can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at Clerke Reef in Islands can reach up to 50 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.