Independent dive-site commentary on the Shellharbour arch.
Bass Point swim-through for experienced divers
Bass Point swim-through for experienced divers
The Arch is the Bass Point swim-through on the south side of the reserve, set in a reef system with a sandy base, an overhead opening, and plenty of growth on the walls. It can be reached from shore, but the shore route is a long swim and many divers prefer a boat or local guided setup. This is a better fit for experienced divers who are comfortable with overhead space, careful buoyancy, and a more technical profile. Expect small reef life, cuttlefish, slipper lobsters, and the chance of larger animals nearby.
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
22m - 30m
Depth Note
The arch is around 22-24 m, and the reef system reaches about 30 m.
Best Season
Year-round in calm weather
Typical Conditions
More technical than a casual shore dive, with current sensitivity, an overhead section, and a colder feel on some days.
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Safety Notes
Keep depth discipline around the arch, and treat the shore approach as a current-aware swim rather than an easy entry.
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Best for experienced divers who are comfortable with overhead space and current around the arch.
Freediving
Not a primary freedive target; the swim-through and current make scuba the better default.
Snorkeling
Not a practical snorkel choice; the interesting section sits too deep for casual surface use.
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
Last Updated
Research Sources
Independent dive-site commentary on the Shellharbour arch.
Community report with The Arch visibility context.
Council plan with Arch/Cave depth and shark context.
Long-shore access, current sensitivity, depth, and marine-life notes.
Official tourism context for Bass Point and The Arch.
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