

The Gantry is a shore entry reef dive near Bawley Point that suits beginners well, with mild current and depths between 9 and 14 metres. Visibility regularly reaches 10 to 30 metres, which means you can take your time exploring without feeling disoriented. The reef attracts an impressive mix of marine life for a temperate site. Keep an eye out for weedy seadragons drifting close to the bottom, giant cuttlefish, and octopus tucked into crevices. Port Jackson sharks and crested horn sharks rest on the reef, while bull rays, trevally, and squid pass through. Nudibranchs and blue groper round out a genuinely varied cast.
-35.50539, 150.39538
The best conditions run from July through November, when visibility tends to be at its clearest. Be aware of rip currents near the entry point and check conditions before you get in, as they can catch new divers off guard.
The site is easily accessible by car. Access to the water is via a short 30-metre rocky walk to the gantry, followed by a giant stride entry into a sandy bottom.
The access is via a rocky walk, and there is no wheelchair-accessible entrance mentioned.
The area is popular for fishing, so there is a risk of entanglement in discarded fishing lines. While marine life is a highlight, large rays and sharks are common. Jumping from the gantry is popular but can be dangerous due to shifting sandbanks that can create unexpectedly shallow areas.
Depth
9-14m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
17-24°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
Best Time
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
The Gantry is classified as a beginner-level dive site requiring only Open Water certification, with depths ranging from 9 to 14 metres. The mild current conditions and shore entry make it accessible for less experienced divers, though awareness of rip currents, surf and entanglement risks is essential. Water temperatures between 17 and 24 degrees Celsius allow for comfortable diving with a 5mm wetsuit throughout most of the year.
The Gantry at Bawley Point is accessed via shore entry with parking facilities available nearby. No boat is required to reach this New South Wales dive site, making it convenient for independent divers visiting the Ulladulla area. Divers should be prepared for surf conditions during entry and exit, and remain aware of potential rip currents.
The Gantry offers optimal diving conditions from March to May and July to November, covering both autumn and spring months. These periods typically provide the best combination of visibility, marine life encounters and manageable sea conditions. Winter months from July to September are particularly favourable for sightings of Port Jackson sharks and giant cuttlefish at this New South Wales site.
The Gantry is rated 4 out of 5 for snorkelling, making it an excellent shore-based snorkel site near Ulladulla. The shallow starting depth of 9 metres allows snorkellers to observe marine life including weedy seadragons and cuttlefish from the surface. Snorkellers should exercise caution regarding rip currents and surf conditions when entering and exiting the water.
Visibility at The Gantry ranges from 10 to 30 metres depending on weather conditions and seasonal factors. The site experiences mild currents which generally help maintain good water clarity for both diving and snorkelling. Best visibility typically occurs during the recommended months of March to May and July to November.
Divers and snorkellers at The Gantry must be aware of rip currents, surf conditions, entanglement risks, sharp coral and potential marine life interactions. The shore entry requires careful timing and awareness of wave patterns to ensure safe entry and exit. Protective exposure suits and gloves are recommended to prevent cuts from sharp coral and rocks.
There is no entry fee to dive or snorkel at The Gantry in Bawley Point. The site offers free shore access with parking facilities available nearby, making it an economical choice for divers visiting the Ulladulla region of New South Wales. Divers only need to cover their own equipment and transport costs.
Diving at The Gantry in Ulladulla requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at The Gantry in Ulladulla. Water temperatures range from 17°C to 24°C.
The Gantry in Ulladulla is home to octopus, giant cuttlefish, weedy seadragons, Port Jackson sharks, squid, and crested horn sharks. Marine life sightings vary by season and conditions.