Fishermans Bay - Sydney & New South Wales

Klondike, just off Flic en Flac, often gets tagged as a beginner’s site, and sure, it’s shallow enough for new divers to feel comfortable, usually around 9-12 metres. But we think that’s selling it short. What we love here are the rock formations and the way they create these shadowy ledges and small swim-throughs. It’s not a huge site, but we enjoy weaving through the channels, with the sand rippling gently below. Look closely in those darker pockets; you’ll often find shoals of sweepers hanging out, sometimes so dense they look like a shimmering curtain. We’ve had great encounters with big long-nosed butterflyfish here, and it's a prime spot for spotting flasher scorpionfish if you have a keen eye. The visibility is often a generous 18 metres, making it easy to just drift and watch the ghost morays peek from crevices. We’d suggest going early in the morning before the dive school rush if you want the place to yourself.

Location
Sydney & New South Wales, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-32.789300, 152.092400
Type
cave

Marine Protected Area: Bushy Island

Nearby Dive Sites in Sydney & New South Wales

Nearest Dive Centres to Fishermans Bay

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 typical depth range for diving at Fishermans Bay?
Fishermans Bay is a shallow dive site, reaching a maximum depth of 13m. This makes it an excellent location for divers looking for less extreme depths and comfortable exploration.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Fishermans Bay?
Divers at Fishermans Bay can explore a diverse underwater landscape featuring a sandy bottom interspersed with rocky areas. Keep an eye out for lots of large wobbegongs, especially as you reach the 5m depth areas, and schools of little fish thriving in the weedy sections.
How challenging is diving at Fishermans Bay for different experience levels?
Fishermans Bay is generally considered a shallow site, making it good for beginner dives. However, divers should be aware that surge can be present at the site, contributing to its overall intermediate difficulty rating. This means while accessible, some conditions might require more experience.
What are the best times of year or conditions to dive at Fishermans Bay for optimal experience?
Fishermans Bay is fairly sheltered from outside ocean conditions, which often contributes to a more comfortable diving experience. However, surge can be present at the site, so checking local conditions before your dive is always recommended for optimal enjoyment. For general guidance on dive planning, visit When to Dive.
Are there any specific certifications or permits required to dive at Fishermans Bay?
The provided data for Fishermans Bay does not specify any particular certifications or permits required for diving at this site. Divers should always ensure they hold appropriate certifications for their planned activities and check with local dive operators for any current regulations.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at Fishermans Bay?
Divers at Fishermans Bay can typically expect an average visibility of 8m. While the site is fairly sheltered from strong outside ocean conditions, surge can be present, which might affect underwater movement and comfort.