Macquarie Heads is a high-commitment drift dive through a canyon system where extreme currents are the defining feature, not a footnote. Depths run 16 to 20 metres with visibility regularly matching that range, giving you long sight lines through the channel. You ride the current rather than fight it, scanning canyon walls where nudibranchs and crabs work the rock, and cuttlefish hold position in the flow. Leafy sea dragons and seahorses appear in calmer pockets where the canyon geometry offers some shelter. Boat traffic, surge, and cold water demand full exposure protection and solid buoyancy control. Time your entry precisely around the tidal window.
-42.20000, 145.20000
This site is entirely tide-dependent, so check current tables carefully and plan to be in the water at the right tidal phase rather than adjusting your plan on the day. Confirm entry and exit points with local dive operators before your first visit, as conditions shift quickly and boat traffic through the heads requires situational awareness throughout the dive.
Access is via boat from Strahan. The entrance to the harbour is notoriously dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced boat operators in favorable conditions.
The entrance to Macquarie Harbour is named "Hells Gates" for a reason. It is directly exposed to Southern Ocean swell and the "Roaring Forties" winds. Currents are powerful, unpredictable, and influenced by multiple factors beyond tides. The site is tricky with shoals and can be dangerous to even approach in the wrong conditions. A diving fatality occurred here in March 2024. This site should only be considered by expert divers with extensive experience in extreme conditions and with thorough local knowledge. It is entirely unsuitable for snorkeling.
Depth
16-20m
Visibility
16-20m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
23-29°C
Current
Extreme
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
Yes, Macquarie Heads (Entrance Island) in West Coast is a boat-access-only dive site. You will need to book with a local dive operator or charter a boat to reach it.
Yes, parking is available near Macquarie Heads (Entrance Island). Arrive early during peak seasons as spaces can fill up quickly.
Macquarie Heads (Entrance Island) in West Coast requires advanced diving skills. Expect deeper depths, currents, or challenging conditions that are not suitable for newly certified divers.
Diving at Macquarie Heads (Entrance Island) in West Coast requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Macquarie Heads (Entrance Island) in West Coast. Water temperatures range from 23°C to 29°C.
Macquarie Heads (Entrance Island) in West Coast is home to nudibranchs, cuttlefish, leafy sea dragons, seahorses, and crabs. Marine life sightings vary by season and conditions.
The best months to visit Macquarie Heads (Entrance Island) in West Coast are December, January, February, and March. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Macquarie Heads (Entrance Island) in West Coast has depths ranging from 16 metres to 20 metres.
Macquarie Heads (Entrance Island) in West Coast is known for extreme currents. Only very experienced divers should attempt this dive, and only under favourable conditions.
Visibility at Macquarie Heads (Entrance Island) in West Coast typically ranges from 16 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.
