Dive and Snorkel
Recognised as one of Australia’s top shore dives, the Busselton Jetty is home to over 300 marine species. As you descend below the ocean’s surface you will be see the natural wonders that lie beneath the Jetty where its piles create Australia’s greatest artificial reef, host to an awe-inspiring forest of vividly-coloured tropical and sub-tropical corals, sponges, fish and invertebrates.
The Busselton Jetty structure and surrounding water is multi-use, and for the enjoyment of all visitors, understanding the below information will ensure you have a great diving experience. As a dive site, there are multiple access points to the water, a maximum depth of 8m and low currents in fair weather.
1. $4 Jetty Day Pass or $4 Dive/Snorkel Pass
During the Interpretive Centre’s opening hours there is an entry fee of $4 for those over 17 years. The $4 Jetty Day Pass gives you access to walk the Jetty and the $4 Dive/Snorkel Pass also gives you access to the Jetty while also identifying you as a diver/snorkeller who needs to complete a dive waiver . The Jetty is 1.8km long and the walk takes approximately 25 minutes each way. Tickets are valid all day and can be purchased at the Interpretive Centre window. Outside of the Interpretive Centre’s opening hours, admission is free.
2. Dive gear transport
We understand that dive gear is heavy and the Jetty is long. You may wish to consider bringing a trolley with you to transport your dive gear.
3. Busselton Jetty Train Policy for Divers
Due to train safety regulations, diving gear, fishing gear and large luggage are unable to be taken on board the train or into the Underwater Observatory.
4. Wet divers/swimmers/snorkellers
Please note you must dry off before boarding the train or entering either the Underwater Observatory or Interpretive Centre to avoid causing a slip hazards. Wet divers, snorkellers or swimmers will not be permitted to board the train.
5. Underwater Observatory Exclusion Zone and Marine Sanctuary
There are various marine reserves around the end of Busselton Jetty managed by the City of Busselton, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and Department of Primary Industry and Regional Development. Collectively these managed areas are known as the Busselton Jetty Sanctuary and includes all waters bounded by a line commencing at the intersection of 33° 37.723′ south latitude and 115° 20.328′ east longitude; thence extending southerly along the geodesic to the intersection of 33° 37.819′ south latitude and 115° 20.357′ east longitude; thence extending westerly along the geodesic to the intersection of 33° 37.834′ south latitude and 115° 20.287′ east longitude; thence extending northerly along the geodesic to the intersection of x33° 37.738′ south latitude and 115° 20.258′ east longitude; thence extending easterly along the geodesic to the commencement point.
SCUBA diving is an allowable activity with the sanctuary area; however, all forms of fishing/collection are prohibited.
An exclusion area of 20 metres surrounds the Underwater Observatory. Visually, this can be adhered to by swimming on the ocean side of the ‘west side anchor’ and keeping at least 2 rows of jetty piles from the underwater building. Please observe the Exclusion Zone signage
6. Spear fishing is prohibited across the entire Busselton Jetty site
7. Shared platform and ladders
Busselton Jetty is a shared use facility. Along the length of the jetty numerous ladders and platforms are shared by users swimmers, fishers, snorkellers and divers. The furthest platform along Busselton Jetty is accessible by ramp along the western edge and is highly popular among all Jetty users. Priority access is provided for patrons requiring wheelchair access.
Snorkellers/divers have public access to enter/exit the water from this platform. As this platform is becoming ever popular, trolleys and gear must be stored away from the entry/exit points to allow safe access in and out of the water.
