reef

Log This Dive

BRONZIE BAY - GMI

Bronzie Bay, off Goat Island Marine Reserve, is a spot we keep coming back to, especially when the weather's a bit blustery elsewhere. It's a channel dive, maxing out at 13m, which means it’s pretty forgiving on air. We usually drop in near the weed line, which is a great place to start looking for critters. You’ll find eastern king wrasse patrolling the edges and, if you’re patient, widebody pipefish tucked into the kelp. Now, about those bronzies – yes, you do see them. They cruise through, usually a bit deeper, so keep an eye out towards the sandy bottom. But even without the sharks, this bay delivers. We’ve had great luck spotting red rock lobsters tucked into crevices, and southern reef squid often hover, changing colours right before your eyes. Visibility averages 9m, so it’s not always gin-clear, but we find that just adds to the hunt. It’s a busy spot, though, with fishing boats and other divers, so fly that flag high and bright. Dive early in the morning for the calmest surface conditions and fewer crowds.