Pilots Bay is a sheltered, west-facing shallow bay near Low Head in George Town, North East Tasmania. Protected by Cordell Point to the south and a 500-metre-long breakwater to the north, its calm, sandy-bottomed waters offer an excellent introduction to Tasmania's temperate snorkeling. The bay sits at the mouth of the Tamar River, where nutrient-rich currents feed vibrant kelp forests and seagrass beds. Snorkelers can explore around the breakwater walls and shallow reefs, with good visibility on calm days. This is a peaceful, uncrowded spot ideal for families and beginners wanting to experience Tasmania's cool, clear marine environment away from the more exposed east-coast beaches.
Pilots Bay
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Wave Height 0.5 mSwell Period 5.0 sWind Speed 0.8 knPrecipitation 14 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Strong outgoing tide current
The Tamar River estuary can produce significant outgoing tidal currents, especially near the breakwater and channel entrance. Snorkelers should be mindful of tide times and avoid venturing too far into the main channel during an ebb tide.
Moderate risk: Boat traffic
The bay is near the Tamar River shipping channel and the Low Head pilot station. Snorkelers should stay well inshore and be aware of vessel movements, particularly near the breakwater.
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Tasmanian waters are cold year-round, ranging from 12–18°C (54–64°F). Prolonged exposure without a wetsuit can lead to hypothermia. A 5mm or thicker wetsuit is strongly recommended.
Low risk: Variable visibility
After rain or wind, sediment runoff from the Tamar River can reduce underwater visibility significantly. Best conditions follow calm, settled weather.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
From George Town, follow Low Head Road approximately 5 km north towards Low Head. Turn onto Pilots Bay Road and follow it to the foreshore parking area. The bay is located just south of the Low Head Pilot Station and lighthouse precinct.
Parking & facilities
Limited gravel parking is available near the foreshore at the end of Pilots Bay Road. Additional parking can be found near the Low Head Pilot Station.
parking
Free entry. No fees required.
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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