Meet the site
The Eddystone, an 85 m, 2,040-ton steam freighter, ran aground on 6 September 1894 on a shoal while being guided into the Balla Balla anchorage by the Beagle, after confusion over signals between the two vessels.
The wreck has broken down heavily, but its major components remain in 4–8 m: the huge triple-expansion engine, large boilers, the stern and propeller, and a propeller shaft more than a foot in diameter with a dramatic curve. The stern and engine lie almost 90 degrees apart, testament to the tidal forces that tore the ship apart. Giant trevally and barracuda patrol the site. Anchoring is poor and the currents are powerful.
Balla Balla was a short-lived port serving the Whim Creek copper mine in the 1890s–1910s, with a tramway to a landing and an anchorage off Depuch Island, itself famous for Aboriginal rock art. The combination of extreme tides, poor anchoring, low visibility and remoteness means these wrecks are visited only by self-sufficient expedition divers with a live boat and surface support.
Planning notes: Wreck specialty recommended certification is recommended and the site is rated advanced. Expect to spend most of the dive around 6 m, with a maximum of about 8 m. Access is by boat only, and site selection depends on wind, swell and tide on the day. Currents are significant, so timing around the tide is part of the plan. Best season: April–October on neap tides. Traffic: remote/expedition only.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Eddystone is recorded as Wreck in Pilbara & Dampier. The listed access is 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.
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 Eddystone suitable for my certification?
The record lists Wreck specialty recommended. 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 Eddystone 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
Giant trevally, barracuda, reef fish
Location
Remains of the 85 m steam freighter Eddystone on a shoal at the eastern side of the Balla Balla anchorage channel, in 4–8 m.
Facilities nearby
None. Air fills in Karratha.
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
divingwawrecks.comdivingwawrecks.comRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.