The SS Ridge Park was an iron screw steamer that struck Beware Reef on 10 February 1881 and now lies scattered across the reef's northern face in depths of 7–24 metres. Part of the Beware Reef Marine Sanctuary off Cape Conran, this historic wreck site features a recognisable triangular bow, winch, squashed boiler, engine, propeller, and broken hull plating. The reef setting and the wreck's nooks and crannies host abundant marine life, making it a fascinating destination for experienced divers and advanced snorkelers willing to boat out to this exposed yet protected East Gippsland site.
Ridge Park (shipwreck)
AdvancedMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 11 sWind Speed 1.6 knPrecipitation 45 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
© Unknown authorThe spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Southerly gales/swell
Heavy southerly gales can slam the exposed reef, making conditions dangerous. The wreck slid off its ledge during a gale in March 1881.
Moderate risk: Strong currents
Tidal currents sweep around Beware Reef, especially on the northern side where the wreck lies. Requires good fitness and awareness.
Low risk: Boat access required
The wreck is offshore on Beware Reef, accessed only by boat from the West Cape ramp. Not a shore-entry snorkel site.
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Southern Ocean water temperatures are cold year-round (12–17°C), requiring a thick wetsuit or drysuit for comfort and safety.
Low risk: Depth range
The wreckage spans 7–24 metres depth, with deep sections requiring advanced diving/snorkelling skills and proper equipment.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
1 photo from the community
Getting in
Boat
Entry
The Ridge Park wreck lies on the northern side of Beware Reef, approximately 18 km east of Marlo off Cape Conran in East Gippsland. Access is by boat only, launching from the West Cape boat ramp within Cape Conran Coastal Park.
Parking & facilities
Large sealed car park adjacent to the West Cape boat ramp at Cape Conran Coastal Park.
parkingtoiletsboat_ramppicnic_tables
Parks Victoria entry fees may apply for Cape Conran Coastal Park. No specific dive fee.
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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