The SS Australian is a historic shipwreck lying in shallow waters off the Yorke Peninsula, South Australia. This iron-hulled steamship ran aground in 1883 and now rests in just 12 metres of water, making it an accessible snorkeling and novice dive site. The wreck is well-flattened and heavily encrusted with colourful marine growth, surrounded by prolific fish life. Part of the Investigator Strait Shipwreck Trail, it offers snorkelers a tangible connection to South Australia's maritime past with excellent underwater visibility in calm conditions.
SS Australian
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 0.0 sWind Speed 8.1 knPrecipitation 11 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Sharp wreckage
The wreck is flattened but may have exposed metal and sharp edges; exercise caution when exploring.
Low risk: Strong currents in Investigator Strait
Tidal currents can be strong in the open waters of Investigator Strait, especially during tidal changes.
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
South Australian waters can be cold year-round; wetsuit recommended for extended snorkeling.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
The SS Australian wreck lies off the coast of Yorke Peninsula. Launch from towns like Edithburgh or Ardrossan on the eastern side of the peninsula. The wreck is located a short boat ride offshore; exact coordinates should be confirmed with local dive shops. Part of the Investigator Strait Shipwreck Trail.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at boat ramps in Edithburgh and Ardrossan.
parkingboat_ramp
No specific fee for the wreck site, but boat launching fees may apply at some ramps. Permits required for diving historic shipwrecks under South Australian heritage laws.
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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