Sinbad Gully - Fiordland

Torpedo Alley is one of those Komodo sites where you really need to slow down. Our pick for a relaxed afternoon dive, it's a completely different vibe from the ripping drifts further north. Here, it’s all about the small stuff, the critters that hide in plain sight. We’re talking bobbit worms, often with just their terrifying mouths visible from the sand, waiting. You’ll spot a parade of different pipefish – bluestripe, brown-banded – tucked into the coral rubble. Look closer, and you might catch a hairy octopus trying its best to blend in, or a rhinopias swaying gently, perfectly camouflaged. The reef itself is a patchy affair of coral and rock, sloping gently to 20 metres. Visibility averages a comfortable 18 metres, usually calm, which is ideal for macro photography. We love spending an hour just hovering, letting our eyes adjust to the intricate details. You'll see green turtles cruising by, a smattering of schooling fusiliers, and plenty of those torpedo rays that give the site its name, often half-buried in the sand. This is a site for the patient observer, the diver who appreciates the subtle beauty of Komodo's smaller residents.

Location
Fiordland, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-44.660000, 167.899000
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
15-40m

Marine Protected Area: Piopiotahi

Best Time to Dive in Fiordland

The warmest water temperatures in Fiordland occur in February, averaging 15.7°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 9.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 15.6°C
  • February: 15.7°C
  • March: 15.1°C
  • April: 13.8°C
  • May: 12.4°C
  • June: 10.8°C
  • July: 9.8°C
  • August: 9.6°C
  • September: 10.4°C
  • October: 11.2°C
  • November: 13.3°C
  • December: 14.2°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Fiordland

Marine Life in Fiordland

Home to 49 recorded species including 21 reef fish, 10 sharks & rays, 9 other, 3 whales & dolphins, 3 seagrass & algae, 1 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Sinbad Gully

Based on average water temperature of 12.7°C, currents 10 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (5-7mm) - recommended for 13°C water
  • Hood & Gloves (3-5mm) - helps retain warmth
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at Sinbad Gully?
At Sinbad Gully, divers can explore depths ranging from 15 to 40 meters. The site description also notes a maximum depth of 16 meters, providing varied exploration opportunities for intermediate divers.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Sinbad Gully?
Sinbad Gully offers a diverse underwater landscape featuring both reef structures and steep walls. Divers can expect to encounter fascinating marine life such as black coral trees, tube anemones, wrasses, perches, octopus, brachiopods, and eels. Keep an eye out for potential encounters with seven gill and dogsharks, adding an exciting element to your dive at this unique wildlife rich site.
How challenging is diving at Sinbad Gully for recreational divers?
Diving at Sinbad Gully is rated as intermediate in difficulty. This suggests that divers should have some experience beyond entry-level certifications to comfortably navigate the site's features, including its reef and steep walls.
What is the best time of year or specific conditions to dive Sinbad Gully?
While specific best times of year are not provided for Sinbad Gully, it's noted that the inner Fiord often features a thicker freshwater layer, which can impact conditions. Divers should consult local dive operators for current conditions and optimal diving periods. For general advice on planning your dive trips, visit our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required for diving at Sinbad Gully?
Given the intermediate difficulty rating for Sinbad Gully, divers are generally recommended to hold certifications beyond entry-level, such as an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. This ensures you have the necessary skills and experience to safely explore the site's depths and features.
What are the typical water conditions and currents like at Sinbad Gully?
At Sinbad Gully, divers can expect an average visibility of 18 meters, offering clear views of the underwater environment. A notable condition in this inner Fiord dive site is the frequent presence of a thicker freshwater layer, which can influence thermoclines and light penetration. While specific current information isn't detailed, local conditions should always be checked prior to diving.