Meet the site
In 2011 NT Fisheries expanded the Lee Point reefs with 600 six-metre concrete culverts laid in square and diamond patterns forming a structure 3.6 km long between and around the Rick Mills and Bottle Washer reefs. The Lee Point reefs are NT Fisheries artificial reefs in about 15 m on the open coast north-east of Darwin, built up since the 1990s from decommissioned plant, concrete culverts, shipping containers and old vessels, and expanded in 2011 with 600 six-metre concrete culverts laid in a 3.6 km pattern between the Rick Mills and Bottle Washer reefs. Local fishers and DSAC have added small scuttled boats. The reefs are primarily fishing structures, so expect boats on the marks and fishing tackle on the bottom, but they give divers structure, fish and shelter from the harbour's tidal race.
For divers, the culvert field is less a single site than a connecting network: rows and clusters of large concrete pipes on the sand in about 15 m, each one a shelter for fish. Because the culverts are laid in lines, they are a useful navigation aid for a drift-style swim on a neap or for linking the bigger reefs, and they reduce pressure on the older structures by spreading fish and anglers over a wider area. Species are the same as on the neighbouring reefs - jewfish, snapper, cod, Spanish flag and mackerel - with rays and small reef fish on the sand between. There is little published about diving the culverts specifically, and they are mostly fished rather than dived, so treat any visit as exploratory. Easy depth and simple structure make them suitable for Open Water divers comfortable navigating by compass. The pattern layout is published by NT Fisheries; check it before the trip so you know which way the lines run from your drop point.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Lee Point Culvert Reefs is recorded as Artificial Reef in Darwin Harbour. 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.
- Current and timing
- Ask how the operator assesses the current window for the actual route. Historical tide notes are not a departure instruction.
- Lines and obstructions
- Discuss any known entanglement concerns and the suitability of the planned area.
- Water movement
- Ask how swell and local exposure affect the proposed entry, exit and route.
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 Lee Point Culvert Reefs 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 Lee Point Culvert Reefs 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
Black jewfish, golden snapper, estuary cod, Spanish flag, mackerel, rays, small reef fish
Location
A 3.6 km pattern of concrete culverts laid in 2011 between and around the Rick Mills and Bottle Washer reefs off Lee Point.
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.aunt.gov.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.