Minerva Reef, located off the coast of Portland in western Victoria, is a shallow limestone reef that offers both shore and boat dive access. This site is known as a prime spot for fossilised teeth hunting — including megalodon and seal teeth — and features rocky reef terrain with ledges and gutters teeming with temperate marine life. Its relatively shallow profile makes it an excellent introductory dive site for beginners, while the chance to find ancient fossils adds a unique draw for experienced divers. The reef lies within Portland Bay, protected from the worst swell, but conditions can vary with tide and weather.
Minerva Reef Shore or Boat Dive
BeginnerSKIP
SKIP
Poor conditions. Stay out today.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 1.4 mSwell Period 11 sWind Speed 19 knPrecipitation 22 mmTidal Phase slack
Last evaluated
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
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Moderate risk: Boat traffic
The area is frequented by boats; snorkellers should display a dive flag and remain vigilant at all times.
Low risk: Variable weather and sea conditions
Portland Bay can be exposed to southerly swells and strong winds that reduce visibility and create challenging conditions.
Low risk: Limited visibility
Like many temperate Victorian dive sites, visibility can vary significantly depending on recent weather and plankton blooms.
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Victorian waters remain cold year-round; exposure and hypothermia risks require appropriate wetsuit thickness.
Low risk: Swell conditions
Best dived in low swell with light north or northerly winds; exposed to rougher conditions when winds shift.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Minerva Reef is located in Portland Bay, approximately 5 km north-northeast of Portland, Victoria. The site can be accessed by boat launched from the Portland Boat Ramp, or as a shore dive from nearby access points on the Portland foreshore depending on conditions. Consult local dive shops for exact entry points.
Parking & facilities
Parking is available at the Portland Boat Ramp and along the Portland foreshore area.
parkingboat_ramp
No entry fee; boat ramp fees may apply at Portland Harbour.
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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.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports