Meet the site
The Forster Barge is a modest, shallow wreck off Forster that offers a low-key alternative to the region's much deeper and more historically significant shipwrecks, the SS Satara and SS Catterthun, both of which sit well beyond recreational depth limits. Sitting in a comfortable ten-to-eighteen-metre range, the barge functions much like a small artificial reef, its hull gradually colonised by sponges, soft corals and the invertebrate life typical of the area, and it provides shelter for rays and reef fish on the surrounding sand that would otherwise have little structure to use in this part of the bay. It does not carry the scale or the storied history of the offshore steamship wrecks, and detailed published information about its origin, exact dimensions and sinking date is limited, reflecting its status as a minor, informally known dive rather than a promoted destination. For visiting divers, the Forster Barge is best understood as an easy, accessible wreck experience — useful for introducing newer divers to wreck diving concepts (orientation around a hull, looking for marine life using the structure for shelter) without any of the depth, current or historical complexity of the Satara or Catterthun. It is not part of Forster Dive Centre's standard daily rotation and is more likely to be dived on request or as a change-of-pace second dive, so visiting divers specifically wanting to see it should ask in advance rather than assume it will be offered. If it does feature on a trip, expect a short, relaxed second dive rather than the main event of the day.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Forster Barge is recorded as Wreck in Forster & Seal Rocks. 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.
- Lines and obstructions
- Discuss any known entanglement concerns and the suitability of the planned area.
- 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 Forster Barge 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 Forster Barge 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
Reef fish, rays, sponges and soft coral growth on the hull, invertebrates
Location
A sunken barge off Forster used informally as a small artificial reef and wreck-dive curiosity, offering an easy, shallow wreck experience distinct from the area's deep historic shipwrecks.
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.
Record updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.