Diving in the tannin waters of Ninepin Point Marine Reserve is an iconic Tasmanian dive experience that no diver should miss.
The waters of the Reserve are subject to high levels of tannin from the nearby Huon River. Less dense tea-coloured fresh water overlays the colder sea water and filters out light, which leads to some marine life being seen in much shallower waters than otherwise. Colours are muted and it can take some time for your eyes to adjust but whilst it can be dark, the water can be crystal clear and the sun appears as a beautiful golden glow.
The marine life is an interesting mix of algae and critters. Red algae thrive, along with green and brown seaweeds. There are the usual invertebrate species found in the Channel area – sea whips, bryozoans, sponges, hydroids, sea stars, feather stars, and more. You don’t have to look closely to see large shrimp and other crustaceans.
Fish species, such as the butterfly perch normally seen schooling on deeper reefs, can be seen in shallower water. Species succession is compressed: you see the succession of algae and invertebrates you’d expect on a deeper dive but compressed into much shallower depths. It’s the deep dive you do when you’re not doing a deep dive!
A highlight of Ninepin Point is the inclusion of Arch Rock. The small sandstone island is named for the cave that forms an arch in its centre and it’s a notable geological feature as well as being an interesting dive.
A winter visit to Arch Rock in 2002
The Ninepin Point Marine Reserve is located in the southern reaches of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. The Reserve was expanded from 60 to 731 hectares in late 2009 to include Arch Rock, which is approximately one kilometre south of Ninepin Point.
FACT FILE:
Depth – to 15m
Highlights – invertebrates, fish life, range of algae
Travel time – 90 mins
Of interest – high tannin levels due to proximity of Huon River
Gear – a good torch, SMB or surface signalling device in case of currents
More reading – Parks and Wildlife information about Ninepin Pt Marine Nature Reserve
Follow me on Twitter