Laid to rest in King George Sound in 2001, the Former HMAS Perth II is a 133-metre-long guided-missile destroyer deliberately scuttled as an artificial reef. Sitting in depths from 5 to 36 metres, the wreck is encrusted with vibrant sponge and coral growth and is now a thriving marine habitat. Snorkellers can explore the upper superstructure from the surface, while divers follow an interpretive trail past remnants of Vietnam War shellfire and plaques identifying the marine ecosystem that has colonised the wreck. Located 500 metres southwest of Seal Island, Albany's signature wreck site offers an unforgettable blend of maritime history and underwater abundance.
Former HMAS Perth II Dive Wreck
Poor conditions. Stay out today.
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Moderate risk: Strong currents in King George Sound
Tidal currents can run strongly through the Sound, especially around Seal Island and the wreck. Snorkellers should exercise caution and check tide charts.
Moderate risk: Boat traffic
The wreck is accessed by boat and lies in a busy waterway. Surface snorkellers must be vigilant for vessel traffic.
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Southern ocean waters are cold year-round (12-18°C), increasing risk of hypothermia without adequate wetsuit protection.
Low risk: Depth beyond snorkelling range in parts
The wreck drops to 36m. Snorkellers should stay above the shallower sections (5-10m) and not attempt to dive deeper than comfortable.
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Getting in
The wreck lies 500m southwest of Seal Island in King George Sound, approximately 4.5 hours south of Perth. Access is by private boat or chartered dive tour from Albany (book with local operators such as Albany Dive Centre or Wild Society). The nearest boat ramp is at Emu Point or the Albany Town Jetty.
Parking available at Emu Point boat ramp area or at the Albany marina. There is no direct shore access to the wreck.
No entry fee for the wreck itself. Charter dive/snorkel tours typically cost AUD $100-180 per person. Boat ramp fees may apply at Emu Point.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.