Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef - Sydney & New South Wales

Double Reef is exactly what it sounds like, and we love a dive site that delivers on its name. It’s a gentle slope down to about 14 metres, where a sandy flat separates the first reef from the second. That sand patch is our favourite spot to pause and just scan for the usual suspects: maybe a cruising eagle ray, or a jawfish peeking from its burrow. The second reef starts around 18 metres and drops further, though we often find the best action is closer to the top. Visibility here is usually a solid 20-25 metres, and you’ll want it to spot the sheephead wrasse or the occasional redface eel tucked into the coral. We often find juvenile drumfish dancing in the overhangs, and the sponges are particularly vibrant, a deep purple against the clear blue. It’s a relaxed drift, generally, making it a great choice for divers who want to take their time and really observe the smaller stuff, like the pearl blennies or tiny gobies, though we’ve seen turtles here more often than not.

Location
Sydney & New South Wales, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-33.080500, 151.670500
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Moon Island

Nearby Dive Sites in Sydney & New South Wales

Nearest Dive Centres to Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef

Marine Life in Sydney & New South Wales

Home to 202 recorded species including 129 reef fish, 41 sharks & rays, 9 whales & dolphins, 5 other, 4 crabs & lobsters, 3 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth at the Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef dive site?
The maximum depth at the Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef dive site is 28 meters. This depth allows for a diverse range of marine life to inhabit the artificial reef structure.
What kind of marine life and underwater structures can divers expect to see at Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef?
Divers at Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef can expect to explore a single steel pinnacle reef tower, which is 7.8 meters wide and 12 meters high. This artificial structure serves as a home for various marine life, including yellowtail kingfish, snapper, silver trevally, mulloway, yellowtail scad, blue mackerel, and Fortescques. It's a fascinating site to observe the ocean's reclamation of man-made structures.
Is Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef considered a difficult dive site, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef is considered an intermediate difficulty dive site. Therefore, it is recommended for divers who have some prior experience beyond entry-level certifications. This ensures divers can comfortably manage the conditions and fully enjoy the unique artificial reef.
What is the best time of year to dive Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef for optimal conditions and marine life viewing?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef for optimal conditions or marine life viewing. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required or highly recommended to dive Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef?
While no specific certifications are explicitly listed, given that Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive site, it is highly recommended that divers possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. This ensures you have the necessary skills and comfort level for deeper dives and varying conditions.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef?
At Blacksmiths Western Artificial Reef, divers can typically expect an average visibility of 8 meters. The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions at this site.