Governor's Island Marine Reserve

High risk: Strong currents and swells in Waubs Gulch

Waubs Gulch on the western side of Governor Island is subject to frequent boating traffic and strong currents and swells. Snorkelers should avoid this area entirely.

High risk: Strong currents and swells

Waubs Gulch is subject to frequent boating traffic and strong currents and swells — do not swim, snorkel, or dive there.

High risk: Waubs Gulch danger area

Swimming, snorkelling and diving are strictly prohibited in Waubs Gulch due to dangerous and unpredictable conditions. Always enter the reserve from designated safe access points.

High risk: Strong currents in Waubs Gulch

Frequent boating traffic and strong currents make Waubs Gulch dangerous for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Avoid this area entirely.

Moderate risk: Strong currents and surge

Open ocean exposure on the eastern side of Governor Island can produce strong swell and currents, especially around the points and bommies.

Moderate risk: Restricted shore access

Swimming, snorkelling and diving are prohibited in Waubs Gulch. The marine reserve is best accessed via a commercial operator or kayak — do not attempt shore entry from the Bicheno side.

Moderate risk: Boat traffic (summer)

The channel between Bicheno and Governor Island sees increased boat traffic in summer. Snorkelers near the mainland side should stay vigilant.

Moderate risk: Wind and sea state for boat access

Access is primarily by boat; strong winds can create hazardous sea states for small vessels crossing from Bicheno to the reserve.

Moderate risk: Strong currents

Strong ocean currents can occur around the point and between Governor Island and the mainland, particularly on outgoing tides.

Moderate risk: Boat traffic in Waubs Gulch

Waubs Gulch is subject to frequent boating traffic and strong currents. Do not swim, snorkel or dive in this area.

Moderate risk: Boating traffic in Waubs Gulch

Waubs Gulch is subject to frequent boating traffic; swimming, snorkeling and diving are not advised there.

Low risk: Boat traffic

The reserve is accessed by boat from Bicheno; snorkellers must be vigilant of dive boats and other vessels operating in the area.

Low risk: Cold water temperatures

Tasmanian east coast water temperatures are cool year-round (12–18°C), requiring a thick wetsuit (5–7mm) even in summer.

Low risk: Variable visibility

Visibility can change rapidly with wind and swell conditions. Best conditions are typically found in calm easterly weather with offshore winds.

Low risk: Boat traffic and strong currents in Waubs Gulch

Waubs Gulch is subject to frequent boating traffic and strong currents and swells. Do not swim, snorkel or dive in this area.

Low risk: Ocean swells

Open ocean swells can surge through the reserve, particularly in easterly conditions, creating challenging conditions for snorkelers.

Low risk: Rocky shore entry

Access points involve rocky shorelines which can be slippery and hazardous, especially in surge conditions.

Low risk: Limited shore access

Most dive sites require a boat to access; few suitable shore-entry points exist. Snorkelers should join a guided tour.

Low risk: Remote access

The reef surrounds Governor Island and is best reached by boat or commercial tour — limited shore access and no nearby facilities on the island.

Low risk: Cold water temperature (7mm+ wetsuit required)

Water temperature ranges 11–18°C year-round; cold shock and hypothermia risk without adequate exposure protection.

Low risk: Southerly swell exposure

The site is exposed to southerly swells; sea conditions can deteriorate quickly on windy days.

Low risk: Slippery rocky entry

Shallow nearshore rocks and boulders can be slippery and uneven for entry and exit.

Low risk: Tidal current around the point

Tidal currents can strengthen around the point near the marine reserve boundary.