Mermaid Wall, Mermaid Reef

Mermaid Wall is a renowned dive site located within Mermaid Reef, the northernmost of the three coral atolls forming the Rowley Shoals Marine Park in Western Australia. This site is celebrated for its dramatic underwater topography and vibrant marine life, characteristic of the pristine and remote Rowley Shoals. As its name suggests, Mermaid Wall is a sheer vertical coral wall that plunges dramatically into the deep ocean, in some areas dropping to depths of 400 meters or more. This makes for exhilarating drift dives, where divers can glide along the wall, observing the incredible diversity of corals and fish. The wall itself is a kaleidoscope of color, adorned with an abundance of large red gorgonian fans, bright pink soft corals, and a myriad of hard coral formations. The clear, warm waters of the Rowley Shoals (often exceeding 30-50 meters visibility) provide exceptional viewing opportunities for the thriving ecosystem. Divers frequently encounter various species of reef sharks, including white-tips and grey reef sharks, as well as large schools of trevally, tuna, and other pelagic species. The strong tidal currents that sweep across the Rowley Shoals contribute to the health and vibrancy of the corals and also make for exciting drift diving experiences as you're carried along the wall. Mermaid Reef is a "no-take" zone within the Commonwealth Marine Reserve, ensuring its continued protection and the flourishing of its unique marine environment.