The SS Northern Firth was a 1,954-ton steamer that ran aground on Brush Island's north-eastern reef on 22 February 1932. Today the wreck's colossal boiler — a giant open-ended cylinder — sits in shallow waters just off the island's shore, making it a uniquely accessible wreck snorkel. Located off Murramarang Beach, south of Ulladulla on the NSW South Coast, the site offers close-up views of this rusted steel relic surrounded by temperate reef life. The boiler itself is large enough to swim through, offering a rare snorkelling encounter with maritime history.
SS Northern Firth (wreck)
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.4 mSwell Period 6.8 sWind Speed 8.4 knPrecipitation 26 mmTidal Phase slack
Last evaluated
DANGER: Explicit Risks Present
SS Northern Firth (wreck) has hazards marked as danger. Entering the water here means you may face serious risks to your personal safety.
- Submerged reef and rocks danger
Uncharted shallow reef extends off Brush Island's north-eastern side — the same reef that sank the Northern Firth. Sharp rocks lie just below the surface.
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
High risk: Submerged reef and rocks
Uncharted shallow reef extends off Brush Island's north-eastern side — the same reef that sank the Northern Firth. Sharp rocks lie just below the surface.
Moderate risk: Ocean swell and surge
The wreck lies on an exposed section of the island's north-eastern corner, open to ocean swells. Surge conditions can make snorkelling around the boiler hazardous.
Low risk: Strong currents
Tidal currents can run strongly around Brush Island, particularly during outgoing tides, affecting your ability to stay on site.
Low risk: Boat traffic
The site is accessed by boat and is in an area used by local fishers and dive charters. Snorkellers should stay aware of vessel movements.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
From Ulladulla, head south along the coast to Murramarang Beach opposite Brush Island. The wreck site is off the north-eastern side of Brush Island. GPS coordinates: 35° 31.5783' S 150° 24.9267' E (WGS84). The island lies less than 200 m offshore, but the wreck requires a boat or kayak to reach. Launch from Murramarang Beach.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at Murramarang Beach access points off the Princes Highway south of Ulladulla.
parking
No fees for beach access. Private boat or charter 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