Chowder Bay (Mosman)

Moderate risk: Shark net condition

The Clifton Gardens swimming enclosure has a shark net with large holes in places — not a reliable barrier. Swim within the net at your own risk.

Low risk: Shallow rocks on right side of pool

Rocks on the right-hand side of the rock pool can be very shallow, posing a risk of cuts or stubbed toes, especially at low tide.

Low risk: Marine stingers (rays)

Eastern Fiddler Rays and other stingrays inhabit the sandy shallows; they have a venomous barb, so avoid stepping on them.

Low risk: Low tide shallow conditions

At low tide the water level drops significantly, exposing seagrass beds and making entry/exit trickier; best snorkeled at high tide.

Low risk: Boat traffic near jetty

Chowder Bay has a jetty used by occasional vessels; be aware of boat movement near the swimming enclosure boundary.

Low risk: Boat traffic near wharves

Chowder Bay Wharf and Clifton Gardens Wharf see occasional boat, water taxi and dive boat traffic. Stay vigilant near mooring dolphins and wharf approaches.

Low risk: Anchor chains and mooring lines

Large warship mooring chains with tyre-sized links lie across the sandy bottom between the wharves — easy to trip on or become entangled when surfacing.

Low risk: Variable visibility

Harbour visibility ranges from 5–10 m and can drop significantly after rain or wind, reducing orientation and buddy contact.