

The SS Coogee sits in deep diving territory at 32 to 35 metres, making this a shore-entry wreck dive best suited to beginners who have already completed some deeper dives with a guide or instructor. Visibility can reach 15 metres, though conditions vary. The wreck itself hosts a colourful mix of marine life including yellow zoanthids, sponges, cuttlefish, catsharks, and the striking blue devilfish. Old wives, butterfly perch, large-toothed beardy, and crayfish are also regularly spotted around the structure. Be aware that currents here can be extreme, and cold water, surge, and boat traffic all require careful attention. Dive with an experienced operator and plan your bottom time conservatively.
-38.30685, 144.57177
Winter months from June to August bring the best visibility to this site, so that is the time to go if conditions are your priority. Given the extreme currents and depth, always dive this one with a charter operator who knows the tidal windows.
The site is only accessible via boat, typically with a licensed dive charter operator departing from Queenscliff or Portsea.
The primary hazard is the extremely strong current. Diving here requires careful planning and must be done at slack tide. The depth requires monitoring of no-decompression limits.
Depth
29-35m
Visibility
4-25m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
-1-24°C
Current
Extreme
Typical Dive
30 min
Best Time
Year-round
The SS Coogee wreck in Victoria, Australia sits at depths between 32 and 35 metres. This deep dive requires careful planning and proper certification due to the depth range. The wreck rests on the seabed near Point Lonsdale, making it one of the deeper shore-accessible wrecks in the region.
Diving the SS Coogee requires both Advanced Open Water and Deep Diver certifications. The wreck lies at 32 to 35 metres depth, exceeding the limits for Open Water divers. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary skills to manage decompression obligations and the overhead environment of the wreck structure.
The SS Coogee wreck is accessible to beginner-level divers who hold Advanced and Deep certifications, despite the challenging depth of 32 to 35 metres. However, divers must be prepared for extreme currents, cold water as low as -1°C, and decompression requirements. The shore entry and nearby facilities make logistics straightforward, but the environmental conditions demand respect and proper preparation.
The SS Coogee wreck hosts vibrant yellow zoanthids covering portions of the structure, along with cuttlefish, catsharks, and large-toothed beardy. Common fish species include butterfly perch, old wives, and blue devilfish, whilst crayfish shelter within the wreck's crevices. The marine growth and resident species make this Victorian wreck site particularly rich for underwater photography.
The SS Coogee wreck near Point Lonsdale is diveable year-round, with optimal conditions from January through August. Winter months from June to August typically offer the best visibility, though water temperatures can drop to -1°C requiring thick exposure protection. Summer and autumn diving from January to May provides warmer water up to 24°C whilst still maintaining reasonable visibility up to 15 metres.
The SS Coogee is accessed via shore entry near Point Lonsdale in Victoria, with no boat required. The site offers convenient facilities including parking and toilets, with local dive shops and boat charters available in the area. Divers should be aware of boat traffic when making the shore entry and navigating to the wreck.
The SS Coogee presents multiple serious hazards including extreme currents, decompression obligations at 32 to 35 metres depth, and the overhead environment of the wreck structure. Additional risks include cold water temperatures as low as -1°C, surge conditions, and boat traffic near the shore entry point. Proper planning, appropriate certifications, and suitable equipment are essential for safe diving at this challenging site.
There is no entry fee to dive the SS Coogee wreck near Point Lonsdale, Victoria. The site is freely accessible from shore, though divers may choose to utilise local dive shops or boat charter services available in the area. Standard costs for air fills, equipment hire, and guided dives apply if using commercial services.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near SS Coogee, wreck in Point Lonsdale. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at SS Coogee, wreck in Point Lonsdale. Water temperatures range from -1°C to 24°C.
SS Coogee, wreck in Point Lonsdale has depths ranging from 29 metres to 35 metres.
A typical dive at SS Coogee, wreck in Point Lonsdale lasts approximately 30 minutes. Actual dive time depends on depth, air consumption, and conditions.