Meet the site
Droughty Point is a low headland on the eastern shore of the Derwent between Rokeby and Ralphs Bay, south-east of central Hobart. The Marine Life Network guide describes a muddy bottom with sponge life in 2-10 m, shallow close to the south-east point but with rocks extending well out, a few crayfish, and visibility that depends on river silt and is best at high tide. It also records history: an old whaling station at Tryworks Point nearby, and the wreck of the wooden barque Rotuma, lost in 1907 (225 tons). Little of a wooden wreck survives a century in the Derwent, so expect scattered timbers or fittings at most. The reef is a mix of rocks and mud typical of the lower estuary, supporting sponges, sea squirts and small invertebrates, with flathead, leatherjackets and wrasse, and the ubiquitous Northern Pacific seastars on the mud. It is a modest site, attractive mainly for its history and its proximity to Hobart's eastern suburbs, and useful as a sheltered alternative when Storm Bay is rough. Offshore from the point lies a deeper trench where a section of Hobart's old floating bridge was sunk, now a more demanding dive in its own right. Documentation is limited to an older guide, so expect to explore and to find conditions very dependent on recent rainfall. A short boat ride from Lauderdale, it can be combined with the floating bridge section offshore for experienced divers, or with a snorkel in the shallows for less experienced members of the group. Rain in the Derwent catchment in the preceding week is the best predictor of a poor dive here; plan it after a dry spell and on the top of the tide.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Droughty Point is recorded as Reef in Hobart & Derwent. The listed access is boat (day trip). 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.
- Other water users
- Ask about vessel activity, exclusion areas and the agreed surface arrangements.
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 Droughty Point 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 Droughty Point 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
Sponges, sea squirts, crayfish (few), flathead, leatherjackets, wrasse, Northern Pacific seastars (invasive)
Location
Point on the eastern shore of the lower Derwent, south-east of Hobart, with rocks extending well out over a muddy bottom and the remains of the barque Rotuma nearby.
Facilities nearby
Lauderdale boat ramp (Doran's Road); shops at Lauderdale; fills in Hobart.
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
marinelife.org.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.