Ex- HMAS Swan Wreck Double Boat Dive

Diving on a historic naval shipwreck might sound intimidating to some, but this HMAS Swan wreck experience in Busselton makes it surprisingly accessible and rewarding, even for those new to wreck exploration. We’re here to unpack what makes this tour stand out, from the impressive vessel itself to the friendly, professional crew that guides you through what’s undoubtedly one of the most memorable underwater adventures in southern Australia.

What we love about this tour is how it balances top-notch safety with a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. The fact that it offers full gear rental and approximately 2.5 hours of underwater exploration means you get plenty of time to soak in the sights—whether you’re a seasoned diver or just certified with open water. Also, the marine life sightings are a highlight, with schools of fish and various species darting through the wreck—truly a photographer’s dream.

A potential consideration is that this is an unguided dive, which means you should be comfortable navigating on your own after the briefings. If you prefer guided explorations or have limited experience with wrecks, you might want to inquire about guided rates. The tour also involves a cost of $89 for rental gear, which is worth considering as part of the overall value. This tour best suits certified divers who enjoy exploring at their own pace and are eager to see one of the southern hemisphere’s largest accessible wrecks.

In essence, if you’re looking for a well-organized, high-value underwater adventure with the chance to explore a historic shipwreck and see diverse marine life, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers, marine enthusiasts, or dive-certified visitors seeking an authentic experience in Australia’s southwest.

Key Points

• Accessible for All Levels: Suitable for certified divers with open water certification, thanks to its relatively shallow highest point (5 meters) and main depth of 32 meters.
• Full Equipment Provided: All necessary scuba gear is included, making it easy to just show up and go.
• Marine Life Galore: Expect schools of fish like bull’s eye, king George whiting, brim, plus species like Samson fish, blue devil, and sweep.
• Flexible, Unguided Dive: Enjoy the freedom of exploring the wreck on your own with a comprehensive briefing.
• Comfortable Boats & Snacks: The fast, modern boat offers a smooth ride, and snacks are included for quick refreshment during surface intervals.
• Highly Praised Crew: Reviews consistently highlight the helpful, friendly staff and skipper as major pluses for this trip.

An In-Depth Look at the HMAS Swan Wreck Dive Experience

The Vessel and Its History

The HMAS Swan (DE 50), a decommissioned naval destroyer measuring 113 meters long, rests in 32 meters of water just off Dunsborough. Scuttled in 1997, this wreck has attracted divers from around the world who want a close-up look at a piece of Australian naval history. Its size and accessibility make it a standout among wreck sites in the southern hemisphere, offering both expansive viewing areas and intricate nooks to explore.

For many divers, the idea of exploring a military vessel with its corridors, rooms, and equipment still intact adds a layer of fascination. According to reviewers, the crew is well-versed in sharing insights about the ship’s history, adding an educational edge to the adventure.

The Journey to the Wreck

The tour kicks off at the Quindalup Boat Ramp at 8:00 am. From there, you hop onto a fast, comfortable boat—a highlight in itself because it minimizes transit time and maximizes diving time. The boat’s speed and stability are often praised, making for a smooth journey across calm waters, and the crew’s professionalism ensures a relaxed start to your day.

The Diving Itinerary

Once at the site, you’ll gear up with all the equipment provided. The unguided nature of the dive means you’ll have the briefing to familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout and safety procedures. After that, it’s all about exploring at your own pace, with approximately 2.5 hours of underwater time available.

The wreck’s main features include:

• Depth range: from 5 meters at the top to 32 meters at its deepest, accommodating a range of experience levels.
• Marine life: Schools of bull’s eye fish swim through the ship’s rooms, and the hull is frequented by King George whiting and brim. Expect to see Samson fish, blue devil, and sweep—each adding to the vibrant underwater scene.

What You’ll Experience Underwater

From the moment you descend, the sheer size of the wreck is awe-inspiring. You can swim through the corridors, peek into the engine rooms, and even explore the deck areas. Many reviewers mention the excellent visibility and marine life, which makes each moment feel like a journey through a submerged city.

One diver shared, “Very helpful staff and fantastic new boat,” highlighting the smooth logistics that make the experience seamless. Another noted, “This was a great dive for our son, who has his advanced PADI dive certificate,” emphasizing that the experience appeals to certified divers of various skill levels.

Marine Life and Photography

The wreck is a magnet for fish, and divers often comment on the abundance and variety of marine species. Schools of bull’s eye fish are common, darting in and out of the ship’s rooms. The hull hosts King George whiting and brim, and larger fish like Samson and blue devil occasionally cruise by, providing excellent opportunities for underwater photography.

Additional Highlights

• Snacks and refreshments are included, making surface intervals more enjoyable.
• The cost of gear rental ($89) is reasonable considering the convenience of full equipment included in the package.
• The tour is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience without overcrowding.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

In terms of cost, at approximately $179 per person, you’re getting a well-organized, full-day experience that combines boat travel, a substantial underwater exploration, and snacks. The reviews suggest that the crew’s professionalism, safety focus, and friendliness add significant value. Many divers have praised the “knowledgeable guides” and “helpful staff,” making it clear that this is about more than just the scenery—it’s about the quality of the experience.

The unguided dive is a flexible way to explore the wreck at your own pace, which many experienced divers appreciate. For those who prefer a guided experience, it’s worth reaching out directly for guided diving rates.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for certified divers who are comfortable exploring on their own but want a well-structured, safe environment. It’s perfect for marine enthusiasts, history buffs, or adventurers eager to see one of the largest accessible wrecks in the southern hemisphere. If you enjoy diving in calm waters with plenty of marine life and historical interest, this tour delivers.

It’s also a great choice for those traveling with family or friends who are already certified, as the group size keeps things intimate and manageable.

Final Thoughts

The HMAS Swan wreck double boat dive in Busselton offers a rare chance to explore a significant piece of naval history while enjoying a vibrant marine environment. The combination of professional staff, full gear included, and the vast, accessible wreck makes this a memorable outing for experienced divers.

The experience’s value lies in its balance—professionalism, affordability, and authenticity without feeling overly commercial. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or someone eager to tick off a bucket-list wreck, this tour promises a fun, safe, and visually stunning adventure.

If you’re in the Busselton area and ready for a diving experience that combines history, marine life, and practical comfort, this is one trip you won’t want to miss.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, you need to have an open water certification, as it’s an unguided dive at 32 meters maximum depth.

How long does the dive last?
You’ll have approximately 2.5 hours of underwater exploration, giving you plenty of time to see different parts of the wreck.

What equipment is included?
All necessary scuba gear is provided, but there’s an additional cost of $89 if you want to rent your gear separately.

Where do the dives start?
Meet at the Quindalup Boat Ramp at 8:00 am, from where the boat departs for the site.

Is snacks included?
Yes, light refreshments, tea, and coffee are provided during surface intervals.

Can I participate if I don’t want to get wet?
This experience is specifically for scuba divers, so if you’re not certified or don’t want to dive, this wouldn’t be suitable.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention the fast, new boat that’s both stable and comfortable.

Are there group size restrictions?
Yes, the tour limits to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the dive guided?
No, it’s an unguided dive, so you should be comfortable navigating independently after the briefing.

To sum it up, the HMAS Swan wreck double boat dive is a fantastic option for certified divers looking for a well-organized, authentic, and visually impressive experience. It combines the thrill of exploring an iconic Australian wreck with the comfort and safety of a professional crew—delivering a memorable underwater adventure that’s hard to beat in the region.