Whalers Reef is a shallow limestone reef lying off Whalers Point in Portland Bay on Victoria's Discovery Coast. Ranging from 4–10 m deep, this sheltered reef is a favourite for snorkelers and beginner divers seeking easy exploration of rocky ledges, crevices, and kelp-covered substrate. The bay's clear waters on calm days reveal abundant fish life, with the reef's gentle topography making it an ideal orientation dive. Access is exclusively by boat from Portland Harbour, and the site rewards those who time their visit with light northerly winds and low swell.
Whalers Reef (Portland)
BeginnerMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.2 mSwell Period 12 sWind Speed 16 knPrecipitation 14 mmTidal Phase slack
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Boat traffic
The area is frequented by boats. A dive flag must be displayed when snorkeling or diving.
Low risk: Swell and wind sensitivity
Best dived in low swell with light north or northerly winds. Southerly swells can create challenging conditions on the reef.
Low risk: Limited visibility
Visibility can be poor after rough weather or during plankton blooms, common in warmer months (Nov–Mar).
Wildlife Guide
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Whalers Reef is located off Whalers Point in Portland Bay. Access is by boat only, launching from the Portland Harbour Lee Breakwater Road North or South boat ramps. GPS coordinates: -38.336400, 141.614000.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at the Lee Breakwater Road boat ramps and at Whalers Point reserve. Boat/trailer parking available.
parkingboat_ramp
No fees for launching at the public 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