Meet the site
Evoralls Point lies in Recherche Bay near the site of the old Catamaran coal mines, which operated in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The Marine Life Network guide describes a shallow dive in 2-4 m with seaweed gardens, reef fish and a mud bottom scattered with lumps of coal, and rates it suitable for beginners. Ashore, an old steam truck lies rusting in the scrub and an old boiler marks the access route. The point also gives access to Waterhole Cove and Coalbins Bay, where coal was once loaded, and the guide mentions possible remnants of the 1880 whaler Offley. Underwater, the seaweed gardens support wrasse, leatherjackets, weedfish and juvenile fish, while the mud and coal-strewn bottom hosts sea stars, crabs and small burrowing animals. It is more a historical exploration than a scenic reef, best done as a snorkel or relaxed shallow dive. The guide warns about mosquitoes on the scrubby walk in. Recherche Bay is steeped in history: the French expedition under Bruni d'Entrecasteaux anchored here in 1792 and 1793, and the bay later hosted whaling stations, timber getters and coal miners. Any artefacts – from the mining era or a possible whaler wreck – are protected and must be left in place. The far south has no dive shop or air fills – bring filled cylinders from Hobart or Kingston – and mobile coverage is patchy, so carry a VHF radio and leave a trip plan. Campers at Cockle Creek can easily combine it with Fisher Point and Kellys Rocks for a few days of relaxed diving.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Evoralls Point (Recherche Bay) is recorded as Reef in Huon & Far South. 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.
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 Evoralls Point (Recherche Bay) suitable for my certification?
The record lists Snorkel/Any. 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 Evoralls Point (Recherche Bay) 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
Seaweed gardens, wrasse, leatherjackets, weedfish, juvenile fish, sea stars, crabs
Location
Point near the former Catamaran coal mines in Recherche Bay, with shallow seaweed gardens, a mud bottom with coal lumps, and access to Waterhole Cove and Coalbins Bay.
Facilities nearby
Catamaran River ramp; camping at Cockle Creek; no fills in the far south.
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 27 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.