Where do you go diving from Karratha?

Just off the coast is the Dampier Archipelago which consists of 42 coastal islands. Most of these islands are surrounded by fringing coral reefs which support a varied and an amazing amount of marine life. Twenty-five of these islands are protected and the archipelago has been reported to have the most diverse ecosystem in Western Australia which in turn makes it one of Western Australia’s best diving and snorkeling spots.

Shore diving can be done from a number of locations, please click on the below link for site information and maps.

Self Guided Shore Dive link

When is the best time of year to visit?

The Dampier Archipelago offers conditions suited to diving and snorkeling year round. Throughout the months of April to October, waters are cooler with less algal growth suspended in the water, increasing visibility.

How far in advance do I need to book for Tours?

Our tours are limited to 8 persons only (6 for scuba tours) to provide quality experiences and tours. We recommend booking early to secure your place, but can usually accommodate sightseers, snorkelers and divers on short notice. If you are considering visiting during the Australian school holiday periods you need to book well in advance.

Do you offer discounts (children, pensioners, consession) ?

We offer personalised, unique small group charters. With a maximum of 8 passengers on board we are unable to offer discounts.

How far in advance do I need to book for Dive Courses?

Dive courses are scheduled in advance, please contact us for more information and to secure your booking.

Do I need to be able to swim?

To enter the water, you must be able to swim confidently and unaided, pool noodles are available for your comfort.

What if I have never snorkeled before?

If you can swim confidently and unaided, you can learn to snorkel! If this will be your first time, let us know when booking and we can have someone ready to assist.

Snorkeling in the Dampier Archipelago is from the boat and in many areas the water is too deep to stand and surface conditions may be choppy. You must not stand or hang on to coral.

What will the visibility be?

Visibility in the archipelago can range between 2m to 25m depending on location, tides, time of year and weather conditions. Our crew will always choose the best sites on the day.

What will the water temperature be?

Water temperatures range from 21 degrees in the winter months of July-August to 30 degrees in summer months of January-February.

Snorkeling in the Dampier Archipelago

The Dampier Archipelago offers many snorkeling sites and the best sites for your tour will be chosen by the crew on the day. This ensures locations visited provide the best conditions and experience on the day.

Please note, this area can be prone to wind & swell at times, and are often difficult to predict. Snorkelers must be comfortable in deeper water and with surface chop or current. The Tours do not include beach stops and depending on the locations chosen for the day, journeys could be over an hour each way.

What should I bring with me on the tour?

Your own personal snorkel or dive equipment if you have it, hired dive gear will be waiting for you on board. Snorkeling equipment is provided free of charge.

Drinking water is provided on board, you will need to bring a drink bottle as well as any other drinks and food for the duration of the tour. A small fridge is available to keep your food and drinks cold. Other things you will require include dive certification card or eCard, dive logbook, and any personal items such as towel, hat and reef-safe sunscreen.

Do I really need to bring my dive certification card?

YES! If we don’t sight your dive certification card you will not be able dive! Please notify in advance if you cannot find your certification card, for PADI certified divers, we may be able to confirm your certification online, but do not rely on this.

Do I need a medical?

We recommend you look at the Medical Questionnaire and advise of any issues prior to booking any tour or course.

Although a diving medical may not be required, it is strongly recommended before learning to dive. A diving medical may uncover conditions or issues you were not previously aware of. Australian Standard AS4005.1 recommends a diving medical be completed. Dive medicals cannot be performed in Karratha, please arrange in advance to undertake this in Perth or another location where available.

Is dive equipment supplied in the cost of the tour?

Yes, all dive equipment is included and your sizing options must be supplied during the booking process.

Are dives guided?

Dives are not guided, if you would like to have one of our experienced dive crew guide you through your dives, this additional option can be booked. All divers will dive in buddy teams, without a dive guide, after participating in a dive briefing. Each diver must carry a surface marker buoy and surface noise maker. Our crew will inform you of the time limits prior to commencement of each dive.

If I supply my own gear, do you use a DIN or yoke fitting?

We have some tanks that will allow DIN fittings; however yoke fittings are more commonly used in Australia. Please advise us in advance if you are using a DIN fitting.

What charter options do you offer?

We offer personalised private charters for up to 6 guests aboard our vessel Sailfish. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling, sightseeing, wildlife watching, or simply relaxing on the water, we can tailor the experience to suit your group’s interests and schedule. Get in touch with us to discuss your ideal day out!

Can you organise accommodation for us?

We do not organise accommodation. There are a number of accommodation options and types in Karratha and Dampier to choose from, ranging from camping to hotel accommodation.

Do you provide pick-ups or transport to the departure point?

No, unfortunately we are unable to provide passenger pick-ups or transfers due to passenger transport regulations. All guests will need to make their own way to the departure location.

Can I smoke or vape during the tour?

No smoking or vaping is allowed onboard the vessel.

Why should I buy equipment from a dive shop?

Specialised dive shops ensure you get the gear that suits your needs and includes full product warranty & customer care.

Are toilet facilities available onboard?

There is a toilet available for emergency use only as it is difficult to access and uncomfortable to use. Please use public bathroom facilities on Dampier Esplanade (near High Street intersection) before arriving at Hampton Harbour Boat and Sailing Club.

What if Pilbara Dive and Tours cancels the tour?

Tours are sometimes cancelled due to poor weather conditions. Should this happen, in the first instance, your tour will be rescheduled, subject to availability, or a refund issued.

What if I need to cancel?

Please see our cancellation policy.

Contact us to enquire about group booking options (up to 8 persons), customised to meet your needs.

Pilbara Dive and Tours – Explore the Dampier Archipelago, a remote, untouched, paradise and must-see when visiting the Pilbara region.