Meet the site
Ex-HMAS Adelaide was sunk off the NSW Central Coast in 2011 as an artificial reef. It is now closed to diving. This record is retained for historical and geographic reference; follow the current official notice linked below.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
ex-HMAS Adelaide is recorded as Wreck in Central Coast. 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.
- Planned depth
- Confirm the intended route and training requirements; the recorded maximum is not a target.
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 ex-HMAS Adelaide suitable for my certification?
The record lists Deep/Advanced + experience. 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 ex-HMAS Adelaide 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 eastern cuttlefish, eastern blue groper, kingfish, yellowtail, octopus, bannerfish, batfish, blennies, encrusting sponges and ascidians
Location
Ex-RAN Adelaide-class guided-missile frigate, 138.1 m long with a 14.3 m beam and original displacement of 4,100 tonnes, scuttled 13 April 2011 about 1.4-1.8 km off Avoca Beach, north of Terrigal; sits upright with the bridge at around 20 m, main decks 24-28 m and sand at 32-36 m.
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
crownland.nsw.gov.aulovecentralcoast.comdivenewcastle.com.auprodivecentralcoast.com.aumichaelmcfadyenscuba.infoprodive.com.aumichaelmcfadyenscuba.infoterrigalunderwatergroup.comRecord updated 30 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.