Safety · Destination Guide
White sand beaches above, temperate reefs and grey nurse shark dives below
Updated Jan 23, 2026 • 19 sources
Jervis Bay sits inside a well-managed marine protected area network, but that also means rules are part of the dive plan. Check Jervis Bay Marine Park zoning, respect no-take sanctuary zones, and follow Booderee's additional restrictions on anchoring and gear. For shark encounters, treat grey nurse sharks as protected wildlife and use a calm, non-intrusive approach.
For urgent emergencies in Australia, call 000 (or 112 from mobiles). For suspected DCS or other dive injuries, call a dive medicine hotline early and follow their evacuation advice.
Open-coast surge at caves and gutters
Slot Cave and similar sites can have strong surge even when the bay looks calm. If you are not comfortable in surge, ask the operator for a more sheltered option.
Rogue waves on headlands and rock platforms
Rock platforms can be slippery and exposed. Watch sets for several minutes before committing to an entry, and always keep an exit option.
Boat traffic near ramps and channels
Areas around Huskisson and popular beaches can be busy. Use a surface float, carry an SMB and avoid surfacing in channels.
Cold stress and wind chill in winter
Even if the dive is great, cold hands and wind on the boat can end the day early. Bring warm layers, a beanie and a thermos in winter.
Do Not Do This
Avoid entering when open-coast surge at caves and gutters. Confirm local briefings before committing.
| Contact | Role | Phone | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Triple Zero | National emergency number (police, fire, ambulance) | 000 | 24/7 |
| DAN Emergency Hotline (Australia) | Dive medical emergency hotline | 1800-088-200 | 24/7 |
| Shoalhaven Hospital Emergency Department | Closest major emergency department (Nowra) | 02 4423 9263 | 24/7 |
| Prince of Wales Hospital Hyperbaric Doctor on call | Diving and hyperbaric medicine referral (via switchboard) | 02 9382 2222 | After hours via switchboard |
| Marine Rescue Jervis Bay | Marine rescue and boating safety (VHF Ch 16 also monitored) | 02 4441 5433 | Operational hours vary; emergency via 000 |