Meet the site
Ten Fathom Dropoff takes its name from the depth of the wall top – about 19 m, or ten fathoms – from which the reef drops dramatically to 34 m. Deep 6 Diving describes the edge of the wall as decorated by a wide variety of sponges and fixed growth, with the face zig-zagging in a series of overhangs, swim-throughs and cutbacks that give the dive plenty of structure. Nearby, a large boulder sits at 40 m and rises about 12 m, covered in sponges and gorgonian sea fans.
Visibility is usually 30 m or more, which makes the wall feel enormous and gives photographers a chance to capture its scale. Kingfish patrol off the wall, Port Jackson sharks and wobbegongs rest on ledges, and the sponges and fans provide habitat for nudibranchs, sea stars and small fish. On clear winter days the combination of blue water and colourful growth is a highlight of Jervis Bay diving.
This is a dive for experienced deep divers. Depths of 25–34 m on the face, 40 m at the boulder, the exposed position at the bay entrance and occasional current all demand good buoyancy, air management and a planned ascent. Nitrox is useful for the shallower part of the profile. It pairs well with a shallower second dive inside the bay such as The Docks or Longnose 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.
Ten Fathom Dropoff is recorded as Wall in Jervis Bay. 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.
- 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 Ten Fathom Dropoff 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 Ten Fathom Dropoff 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
Sponges, gorgonian sea fans, kingfish, Port Jackson sharks, wobbegongs, nudibranchs, sea stars, yellowtail
Location
Dramatic zig-zag wall near the northern Jervis Bay entrance dropping from 19 m to 34 m, with a large sponge-covered boulder at 40 m rising 12 m; visibility often 30 m+.
Facilities nearby
Departure from Huskisson: Dive Jervis Bay shop (air, nitrox, hire), cafés, parking; Huskisson and Callala ramps.
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
deep6divingjervisbay.com.aupadi.comRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.