Meet the site
The Cape Jervis barge is a small wreck with a big story. In early September 1880 the steamer SS Sorata stranded on a rock ledge about a mile south of Cape Jervis, and a major salvage effort followed. Among the vessels brought in was Hopper Barge No. 3, an iron barge 34.8 m long built at Glanville only months earlier, in January 1880, used to carry silt as part of the attempt to refloat the steamer. On 21 October 1880 the barge sank in heavy weather. The wreck was rediscovered by chance in 1968, when three spearfishers swept around the rocks in deteriorating conditions came upon an old barge. The Marine Life Society of SA has since investigated whether this 'mystery wreck' is Hopper Barge No. 3, and concluded that it very likely is. The Marine Life Network describes the site as a low reefy bottom in about 6 m with the wreck of an old iron barge used in the rescue of the Sorata – a small but interesting diversion. Expect broken iron plates and frames colonised by algae, sponges and small invertebrates, with reef fish such as old wives, sweep, magpie perch and wrasse sheltering among them. The shallow depth allows plenty of time to examine the remains. The site suits Open Water divers interested in maritime history, ideally combined with Fisheries Beach or a visit before or after the Kangaroo Island ferry. The two sources place it slightly differently, so confirm the position. As a historic shipwreck, it must not be disturbed.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Cape Jervis Barge (Hopper Barge No. 3) is recorded as Wreck in Fleurieu Peninsula & Victor Harbor. The listed access is shore or boat. Confirm the actual meeting point, route and permission to visit; a map pin does not establish any of these.
Topics flagged by the stored research
These are questions prompted by the existing notes, not a verified or complete hazard assessment.
- Current and timing
- Ask how the operator assesses the current window for the actual route. Historical tide notes are not a departure instruction.
- Other water users
- Ask about vessel activity, exclusion areas and the agreed surface arrangements.
- Water movement
- Ask how swell and local exposure affect the proposed entry, exit and route.
Historical access notes exist for this record, but have not been independently verified for current use. Request current directions from the operator or site manager rather than following an old entry description.
Questions, answered
Is Cape Jervis Barge (Hopper Barge No. 3) suitable for my certification?
The record lists Open Water. That does not establish suitability for every route or day. Share your training, recent experience and equipment needs with the operator and ask about the specific proposed dive.
Can I book Cape Jervis Barge (Hopper Barge No. 3) through YouDive?
YouDive is an independent research directory. Contact an operator directly to confirm whether it currently runs the trip, the inclusions and the booking terms.
What you might see
Old wives, sweep, magpie perch, wrasse, leatherjackets, algae, sponges (not documented in detail)
Location
Wreck of an iron hopper barge lost in 1880 while assisting the stranded steamer Sorata, on low reefy bottom in about 6 m roughly 160 m offshore south of Cape Jervis.
Facilities nearby
Cape Jervis boat ramp and ferry terminal (toilets, parking), general store, caravan park.
Before you make plans
Conditions, access and operator schedules can change. This is a location guide, not a dive plan. Ask a local operator about current conditions and suitability for your training and experience.
Sources & further reading
mlssa.org.aumarinelife.org.auen.wikivoyage.orgRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.
