Mersey Bluff, known locally as The Platform, offers a gentle introduction to Tasmanian diving from a convenient shore entry. Depths run from 2 to 9 metres, keeping things manageable for newcomers, and visibility typically ranges from 5 to 15 metres. The site features reef terrain with rock pools worth exploring near the shallows. Keep an eye out for seals and the occasional dolphin passing through. Water temperatures are cold year-round, so a thick wetsuit is essential. Be aware of surf on entry, boat traffic in the area, and that currents can strengthen beyond the usual mild conditions, so pick a calm day if you are just starting out.
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Arrive early in the morning before boat traffic picks up and check local conditions beforehand, as surf and current can shift quickly at this site. The onsite facilities including parking, showers, and a cafe make it easy to warm up and debrief after your dive.
The site is accessed from the Mersey Bluff reserve in Devonport. There is ample parking, and entry to the water is via the beach or rock pools adjacent to the main viewing platform.
The area is exposed to weather from Bass Strait, which can create strong winds, swell, and currents. The Mersey River mouth is nearby, which can have boat traffic.
Depth
2-9m
Visibility
5-15m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
12-18°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Jan, Jan, Feb, Feb, Mar, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Dec
Mersey Bluff (The Platform) on Tasmania's North Coast offers diverse marine life including dolphins, seals, flathead, salmon, abalone, and leatherjackets. Snorkellers can also explore rock pools teeming with seastars and other intertidal creatures. The site's shallow depths of 2 to 9 metres make it ideal for observing these species in their natural habitat.
The snorkelling area at Mersey Bluff (The Platform) ranges from 2 metres to 9 metres deep, making it suitable for beginners. These shallow depths allow extended bottom time and comfortable surface observation in Tasmania's cooler waters. The gradual depth profile provides options for both novice and more experienced snorkellers.
Mersey Bluff (The Platform) is classified as a beginner-level snorkelling site with convenient shore entry and shallow depths of 2 to 9 metres. However, snorkellers must be prepared for cold water temperatures of 12 to 18 degrees Celsius, mild currents, and occasional surf and surge. The site's rock pool areas offer particularly calm conditions for first-time snorkellers.
The best months for snorkelling at Mersey Bluff on Tasmania's North Coast are during summer (December through March) and mid-winter (June and July). These periods typically offer the most stable conditions and reasonable visibility ranging from 5 to 15 metres. Summer months provide warmer water temperatures reaching up to 18 degrees Celsius.
Mersey Bluff (The Platform) provides comprehensive facilities including parking, toilets, showers, and a cafe near the snorkelling entry point. These amenities make it particularly convenient for families and beginner snorkellers who appreciate easy access. There is no entry fee to access the site.
Snorkellers at Mersey Bluff (The Platform) should be aware of cold water, surf, surge, strong currents, and boat traffic. The site experiences mild currents on average, but conditions can change rapidly along Tasmania's exposed North Coast. Always check local conditions before entering and stay close to shore in designated snorkelling areas away from boat channels.
Diving at The Platform in North Coast requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at The Platform in North Coast. Water temperatures range from 12°C to 18°C.
The Platform in North Coast has depths ranging from 2 metres to 9 metres.
A typical dive at The Platform in North Coast lasts approximately 45 minutes. Actual dive time depends on depth, air consumption, and conditions.
