This dive site is the Marietta Dal, a 7500-tonne liberty ship built in the USA in 1944. On May 15, 1950, while laden with sulphur, oil, tractors, and general cargo, it tragically ran aground on Smith Rock off Brisbane. The 140-meter long vessel is now completely broken up, with its extensive remains scattered across the seabed at depths ranging from 10 to 18 meters. It presents a fascinating wreck dive, easily navigable by exploring the various sections of hull, machinery, and cargo that form an artificial reef.
As an artificial reef, the Marietta Dal attracts a diverse range of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter various reef fish species, including snapper, trevally, wrasse, and damselfish, which often shelter within the wreck's intricate structures. The metal surfaces are typically encrusted with vibrant soft corals, sponges, and anemones, providing a thriving habitat for smaller creatures like nudibranchs, crabs, and shrimp. Occasional sightings of larger pelagic fish cruising past the wreck are also possible.
The best time to visit the Marietta Dal generally aligns with periods of optimal visibility and calmer sea conditions, which often occur during Queensland's cooler, drier months. This site is particularly well-suited for beginner wreck divers due to its relatively shallow depth and the broken-up nature of the wreck, which allows for exploration without the complexities or risks of confined penetration. Freedivers will also find the average depth of 8 meters and a maximum of 16 meters ideal for extended breath-hold explorations of this captivating historical site.
