Dive-site story
Located near Pickering Point within the Merri Marine Sanctuary in Warrnambool, Old Aquarium is a sheltered natural basin formed by calcarenite limestone reefs. The surrounding reef structures block much of the direct Southern Ocean swell under favorable weather, creating a protected haven with dense kelp beds, limestone overhangs, and swim-throughs. The rocky seabed provides habitat for cold-water temperate species and macro critters.
Protected limestone gullies and swim-throughs carpeted with kelp
Frequent encounters with Port Jackson sharks and resting stingrays
Macro photography opportunities among sponge gardens and crevices
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Late summer and autumn bring calmer seas, lighter winds, and the warmest water temperatures along Victoria's Shipwreck Coast.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port Jackson SharkHeterodontus portusjacksoni | Common | ||||||||||||
| Southern Rock LobsterJasus edwardsii | Common | ||||||||||||
| Smooth StingrayBathytoshia brevicaudata | Common | ||||||||||||
| Southern Blue DevilParaplesiops bleekeri | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| Senator WrassePictilabrus laticlavius | Common |
Marine forecast
Book with DIVEROUT
