

Best for beginner divers, 2-20m, shore entry, mild current.
Cable Bay in Abel Tasman is a sheltered pebble beach providing access to the Horoirangi Marine Reserve. The site features a reef environment with depths ranging from 2 to 20 metres, averaging 7 metres. Divers and snorkellers can explore the rocky edges along the left side of the bay towards Pepin Island, located up to 800 metres from the shore. Conditions include mild currents and visibility between 4 and 10 metres. The site is suitable for beginners, though users should be aware of potential hazards including boat traffic, surf, and rip currents. Facilities at the entry point include parking and toilets.
-41.15800, 173.41522
The site is a mixing zone between warm northern currents and cooler southern waters, making wildlife appearances unpredictable.
Accessible from the shore. Park at Cable Road and enter the water from the boat ramp.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 20m
Visibility
4-10m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
12-20°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Jan, Mar
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners.
The depth ranges from 2 to 20 metres, with an average depth of 7 metres.
Cable Bay is a shore entry site.
Yes, this site is suitable for snorkelling with a rating of 3 out of 5.
Divers and snorkellers should be aware of boat traffic, low visibility, rip currents, and surf.
Diving at Cable Bay in Nelson requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Cable Bay in Nelson. Water temperatures range from 12°C to 20°C.
The best months to visit Cable Bay in Nelson are January and March. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Cable Bay in Nelson typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Cable Bay in Nelson typically ranges from 4 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.