Shore and Boat Dives

Sorrento Back Beach: Shore and Boat Dive, Depth 4 - metres
Snorkel & Dive (Open Water)

The rugged coastline of Sorrento back beach is exposed to elements of the open ocean and is only suitable during calm seas and experienced and adventurous divers. Back beach diving is characterised with spectacular rock formations and reefs and towering kelp forests which add to the adventure. You can guarantee your efforts will be rewarded, Port Jackson sharks hide in gullies, cat sharks resting in amongst the large kelp forests and eagle rays soar over beds of bright red and green seaweeds. Be prepared to look under the ledges where you are likely to find highly prized abalone and crayfish.

Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary: Shore Dive, Depth 0-4 metres
Snorkel & Dive (Open Water)

This back-beach dive or snorkel is situated on the western entrance to Western Port Bay and is swell dependent. It is worth the wait as the rugged basalt reef provides a plethora of micro-habitats; ledges, bommies and gutters. The shallows waters are dominated with f ascinating marine algae with names like sea Lettuce, Neptune’s necklace and red coralline. The deeper waters are home to the more robust brown kelp. Expect to see swell and cat sharks, ornate wobbegongs, violet-coloured spiky sea urchins, sea stars in rainbow of colours, clingfish and elegant eagle rays. Small sections of seagrass also feature in this diverse sanctuary attracting weed whiting, wrasse and robust box-like cowfish.

Flinders Pier: Shore Dive, Depth 0-4 metres
Snorkel & Dive (Open Water)

Take the plunge and scuba or snorkel this unique diving spot in Western Port Bay. You won’t be disappointed. Light streams through the pylons and illuminate the resident weedy seadragons that can be found seeking shelter underneath the pier or cruising through the adjacent seagrass meadows. Black stingrays with giant wings glide effortlessly through the pylons in search of a feast. Large octopus, bold coloured nudirbanchs, fish and schooling globefish are just a small sample of the diverse life you will encounter.

NIGHT DIVES

For added adventure try a night dive or snorkel where you can witness all the nocturnal animals that come out to play and feed when the sun goes down. All you need is an underwater torch and the world is your oyster. Rye and Portsea pier are ideal to see intriguing creatures such as delicate dumpling squid, octopus and garfish. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself surrounded by hundreds of small schooling fish who are attracted to the light.

Without a doubt Mornington Peninsula’s marine environments will reward you with its rich tapestry of colour and sheer diversity. From the moment you immerse yourself, you’re guaranteed to be captivated and fall in love with the wonders of this unique underwater wilderness.

So whether dancing with dolphins, swimming with seals or encounters with enchanting eagle rays that you want, professional and experienced dive operators will guide you safely through your underwater journey of discovery to make sure that every experience is a memorable one. There is definitely something for everyone to sea.