Spectacular Reef lies in the South Channel and is therefore subject to shipping traffic. This is also part of the former Yarra River bed. The area is quite large and offers many different dive sites. All dives are characterised by a spectacular wall which has large undercuts housing crayfish, Blue Devilfish, beautiful soft corals, and an abundance of other life including Silver Trumpeter, Leatherjackets, the rosy Wrasse and inquisitive White Ear, along with literally thousands of small baitfish. Spectacular Reef is very aptly named. The scenery, rock formations, the sheer drop-offs and the most abundant fish life in the Bay, make this without doubt, the best dive in the Bay.
Unfortunately Spectacular Reef can only be dived from boats containing permits, and then only if no shipping is in the area.
On days of good visibility you will understand why this area is called Spectacular Reef. The terrain is quite dramatic with large deep ledges. It can only be dived on the slack water when there is no shipping as it is right in the middle of the channel. This makes another elusive site but well worth the effort. It starts in 15 meters and drops down to over 33 meters in an unusual combination of huge undercuts and sheer drop offs. The area is big on sponges and very, very fishy.
Depth 15 - 33 meters, Rating: Advanced
Expect to see: Trevally and other fishes such as barber perch, banded sweeps and short fin pike.
Photo Rating: 9/10