Shear Rock is a rocky natural feature located in the waters of North East Tasmania, near the mouth of the Tamar River / kanamaluka. This offshore reef structure rises from temperate Tasmanian waters, offering snorkelers clear views of rocky reef terrain interspersed with kelp forests. The area is known for its exposed, windswept character and forms part of the dynamic marine environment where Bass Strait meets the river estuary. Seasonal conditions can bring strong currents and cooler water temperatures typical of Tasmanian snorkelling.
Shear Rock
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Wave Height 0.5 mSwell Period 5.0 sWind Speed 0.8 knPrecipitation 14 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Strong ocean currents
Bass Strait currents can be powerful around exposed offshore rocks, particularly during tidal changes.
Moderate risk: Variable weather and swell
The area is exposed to Bass Strait weather systems, with sudden swell increases making conditions hazardous.
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Tasmanian waters are cool year-round, typically 12–18°C, posing cold-water safety risks without proper wetsuit gear.
Low risk: Limited shore access
Being an offshore rock feature, access is by boat only; no immediate emergency exit point.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Shear Rock is located approximately 5 km offshore from the Tamar River mouth near Low Head, North East Tasmania. Best accessed by private boat launched from Low Head or George Town boat ramps.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at Low Head boat ramp and George Town boat ramp precincts.
boat_rampparking
No direct fees for snorkeling; boat ramp usage may incur small fees at some ramps.
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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