The Ozone Shipwreck - Victoria

Dirty Rock, it’s not the prettiest name, but trust us, this pinnacle is one of our absolute favourites at Cocos. You drop in, often into a decent current, and immediately feel that surge of anticipation. The rock itself is a magnet for big stuff. We’ve had dives here where the schools of hammerheads are so thick, they literally blot out the sun for a few seconds. It’s like a living curtain. Below, the volcanic rock drops down to about 40 metres, and that’s where you position yourself, hooking in if the current is properly ripping. This is where the show really happens. We’re talking Galapagos sharks cruising by with that slow, deliberate power. Marble rays, some easily over two metres across, glide past almost without effort. Look closely into the nooks and crannies too; the moray eels, especially the speckled ones, are always curious. The visibility can be anything from 10 to 30 metres, depending on the currents and plankton, but it’s rarely a problem when you’ve got so much action right in front of you. This isn’t a leisurely drift; it’s an adrenaline shot, best suited for experienced divers comfortable in strong currents. Come here for the sheer volume of pelagics; it rarely disappoints.

Location
Victoria, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-38.139000, 144.713400
Type
drift
Maximum Depth
5-15m

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

How deep is The Ozone Shipwreck dive site?
The Ozone Shipwreck is a shallow dive site with a maximum depth of 4 meters. It is considered an easy shallow dive, making it accessible for many divers.
What kind of marine life and features can divers expect to see at The Ozone Shipwreck?
Divers exploring The Ozone Shipwreck can expect to see the distinctive wreckage of the Port Phillip paddle steamer itself, which was sunk in 1925 to form a breakwater. The cooler waters of Victoria promote excellent sponge growth, and you'll also encounter a variety of marine life such as crabs, hinge back shrimp, leatherjackets, whiting, flathead, and bream.
Is The Ozone Shipwreck a good dive site for beginner divers?
While The Ozone Shipwreck is a shallow dive with a maximum depth of 4 meters, it is officially classified with an intermediate difficulty. This suggests that while the depth is manageable, other factors like potential currents (it's listed as a drift dive) might make it less ideal for absolute beginners. Divers should assess their comfort and experience level before attempting this site.
What are the best times or conditions to dive The Ozone Shipwreck for good visibility?
The data indicates an average visibility of 6 meters at The Ozone Shipwreck. However, specific best times or conditions to achieve optimal visibility are not provided in the available information. Divers should always check local conditions before planning their dive, and can consult general advice on when to dive for better visibility.
What scuba diving certifications are needed to dive The Ozone Shipwreck?
The provided data does not specify the exact scuba diving certifications required to dive The Ozone Shipwreck. However, given its classification as an intermediate difficulty dive, it is generally recommended that divers possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. Always consult with local dive operators for specific requirements.
What are the typical water conditions and currents like at The Ozone Shipwreck dive site?
Divers at The Ozone Shipwreck can expect cooler water conditions, typical of Victoria. The dive site is also classified as a drift dive, indicating that currents are typically present and should be factored into dive planning.