Lonsdale Bommies - Victoria

The P-47 Plane Wreck isn't just another Raja Ampat dive. Forty-five minutes from Soul Scuba Divers, this American P-47D aircraft sits upright at 26-33 metres, a silent sentinel from WWII. We love the way the wreck is completely colonised, not just by soft corals, but by some truly unique residents. As you descend, the plane emerges from the blue, surprisingly intact. The cockpit is still recognisable, though crammed with Ghost and Yellowlined Cardinalfish, all darting amongst the gauges. We’ve had incredible luck finding Flasher Scorpionfish here, tucked into crevices, their camouflage almost perfect against the corroded metal. Keep an eye out for flatheads resting on the wings, too – they're masters of blending in. Exploring the fuselage, you'll see large groupers and snappers cruising by, sometimes even peering inside. The surrounding seagrass beds, a mix of *Cymodocea* and *Thalassia*, hold their own secrets, often yielding tiny wrasse and damsel fish. Visibility averages a decent 19 metres, giving you a good view of the plane's structure and the constant ballet of fish around it. This site offers a fantastic blend of history and biology, perfect for those who appreciate wrecks teeming with life rather than just skeletal remains.

Location
Victoria, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-38.304700, 144.610700
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Port Phillip Heads

Nearby Dive Sites in Victoria

Marine Life in Victoria

Home to 139 recorded species including 64 reef fish, 26 sharks & rays, 17 whales & dolphins, 7 seagrass & algae, 7 other, 3 starfish.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Lonsdale Bommies?
The Lonsdale Bommies dive site offers a maximum depth of 17 meters, making it suitable for a range of recreational divers. This depth allows for exploration of the unique underwater rock formations and marine life present at the site.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Lonsdale Bommies?
Divers at Lonsdale Bommies can expect to encounter an amazing area of bommies, which are spectacular underwater rock formations. The strong currents in this nutrient-rich environment foster prolific marine growth and a diverse array of associated marine life.
How challenging is diving at Lonsdale Bommies, and what level of experience is recommended?
Diving at Lonsdale Bommies is considered an intermediate difficulty dive. This is primarily due to the strong current flowing through the area, which creates a challenging yet rewarding environment. Divers should be comfortable with current diving techniques and possess adequate experience.
When is the best time to dive Lonsdale Bommies, considering tides and water conditions?
While specific information on the absolute best time to dive Lonsdale Bommies regarding tides is not provided, it is known for having strong currents. Divers should consult local dive operators for optimal diving conditions and tide schedules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at this site.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended to dive Lonsdale Bommies?
Given that Lonsdale Bommies is rated as an intermediate dive site with strong currents, divers should possess appropriate experience and training. While specific certifications aren't explicitly stated, advanced open water certification or specialized training in drift diving would be highly beneficial to safely navigate the conditions.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Lonsdale Bommies dive site?
The Lonsdale Bommies dive site is characterized by strong currents flowing through the area. Despite these currents, divers can typically expect an average visibility of 10 meters, offering clear views of the prolific marine growth and underwater rock formations.