

The Cheynes III is a decommissioned vessel sitting in depths of 10 to 30 metres off Western Australia, now thoroughly colonised by sponges and corals that have transformed its hull into a functioning artificial reef. Visibility can reach 30 metres in good conditions, though currents are variable so it pays to check before descending. Blue groper patrol the structure with little concern for divers, and sea dragons appear around the shallower sections if you look carefully. Seals occasionally visit and make for an unpredictable but rewarding encounter. Standard wreck protocols apply here: treat entanglement risks seriously and treat any penetration as an overhead environment requiring proper preparation.
-35.04422, 118.02715
The site dives best from September through May when visibility tends to be at its clearest, so plan your trip within that window if you can. A torch is worth bringing even if you're staying outside the wreck, as the sponge growth in the recesses rewards a closer look.
The site is accessed via boat, typically from Albany. South Coast Diving Supplies is a local operator that runs regular charters to the wreck.
The midship section of the wreck has collapsed, and penetration is now considered unsafe.
Depth
23-30m
Visibility
5-12m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
28-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
The Cheynes III wreck in Albany, Western Australia sits between 10 and 30 metres depth. The shallow upper sections around 10 metres allow for extended bottom times, whilst the deeper areas at 30 metres provide opportunities for advanced wreck penetration. This depth range makes it accessible to intermediate divers with proper training.
You need an Advanced Open Water certification to dive the Cheynes III wreck in Albany. The wreck presents overhead environments and potential entanglement hazards that require advanced training beyond basic Open Water level. These certifications ensure divers have the skills to navigate the wreck structure safely.
The Cheynes III wreck in Western Australia hosts blue groper, leafy sea dragons, Australian sea lions, and colourful sponges and corals. The wreck's structure provides shelter for these species, with blue groper commonly patrolling the site and sea dragons often found amongst the encrusted sections. Playful seals frequently interact with divers exploring the wreck.
The best months to dive the Cheynes III wreck near Albany are September through April. These months offer the most favourable sea conditions and water temperatures reaching up to 20 degrees Celsius. Visibility during these periods can reach 30 metres, providing excellent conditions for wreck photography and marine life observation.
Access to the Cheynes III wreck requires a boat charter from Albany, Western Australia. Local dive shops in Albany offer boat charters specifically to this wreck site. The boat-only access ensures the site remains protected whilst providing safe entry and exit points for divers.
The primary hazards at the Cheynes III wreck are entanglement risks and overhead environments. The wreck's structure contains confined spaces and potential snag points that require careful buoyancy control and awareness. Divers should carry cutting tools and have proper training in wreck penetration techniques before entering enclosed areas.
The Cheynes III wreck is not suitable for beginner divers and requires intermediate skill level with Advanced Open Water certification. The site's depth range to 30 metres, overhead environments, and entanglement hazards demand experience beyond basic diving skills. Newer divers should gain more experience at simpler sites before attempting this wreck dive.
There is no entry fee to dive the Cheynes III wreck in Albany. Divers only pay for boat charter services and any equipment hire through local dive shops. The site is freely accessible to certified divers with appropriate qualifications and boat transport.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Cheynes III (Wreck) in Albany. Water temperatures range from 28°C to 30°C.
Cheynes III (Wreck) in Albany has depths ranging from 23 metres to 30 metres.
A typical dive at Cheynes III (Wreck) in Albany lasts approximately 40 minutes. Actual dive time depends on depth, air consumption, and conditions.