This dive site, Swansea Bridge, offers incredibly versatile diving with numerous shore entry and exit points, including a fishing pontoon, weigh station, boat ramp, concrete ledge, and Blackneds Bay. Divers can explore the intricate bridge structure itself or venture towards an artificial reef which is noted at 18 meters, although the general maximum depth for the site is typically cited at 13 meters. Its flexible access makes it convenient for varied dive plans and suitable for repeat visits.
The marine life at Swansea Bridge is remarkably rich, appealing to both macro enthusiasts and those seeking larger encounters. Divers frequently spot delicate nudibranchs, elusive seahorses, and various types of eels including moray eels and catfish eels nestled within the structures. Larger species such as bull rays, stingrays, and numb rays are often observed, and there's a good chance to encounter schools of stripey fish and yellowtail, with dolphins occasionally making an appearance.
While specific seasonal highlights are not provided, diving during slack tide often offers the best conditions, minimizing currents that can be variable in an estuarine environment. With a maximum depth of 13 meters and an average depth of 6 meters, the site is excellent for extended bottom times, making it highly suitable for both scuba divers and freedivers of all experience levels. It's a prime location for macro photography and observing diverse estuarine ecosystems.
