Dive Site: Dibley’s

About Dibley’s

Dibley's Dropoff is a prominent dive site located off the coast of Exmouth in Western Australia, forming part of the extensive Ningaloo Reef system. Situated about 2 km from shore on the western edge of the Exmouth peninsula, it is recognized for its vibrant marine life and diverse underwater topography. The site is a key component of the Lighthouse Bay diving area, which offers numerous dive opportunities close to Exmouth. The dive site features a wall and drop-off that descends to approximately 27 meters. This dramatic underwater landscape is punctuated by large pinnacles, some rising as much as 10 meters from the seabed, creating gullies and varied structures. These formations are home to healthy corals and limestone, providing a rich habitat. Dibley's is renowned for its pelagic encounters, with manta rays frequently gliding along the wall and reef sharks patrolling the gullies. During the cooler months, specifically between June and November, humpback whales are spotted in the area, and their songs can sometimes be heard underwater. The site also boasts a diverse fish population, numbering around 450 species, alongside wobbegongs, leopard sharks, sea snakes, and turtles, with whale sharks seen seasonally between March and August. Access to Dibley's is exclusively by boat, typically involving a 15 to 20 km journey from the ramp. Given its depth and exposure to open water, it is considered a rewarding dive for experienced and confident divers.

Dive site facts: Dibley’s

Depth

0–27 m

Current

Moderate

Entry

Liveaboard or dayboat

Level

Intermediate

Dive type

Wall, Reef

Region / port

Australia

Coordinates

15.4123° S, 124.6608° E

Conditions & Currents

Dibley's Dropoff typically experiences moderate currents, which are a significant factor to consider when planning your dive. The site's exposure at the edge of the reef means conditions can be influenced by open water movements, making it essential to choose a day with manageable current for a comfortable experience. Entry is exclusively by boat, given the site's offshore location and depth, requiring divers to be proficient in boat diving procedures. While specific details on entry techniques like negative entry or live boating are not provided, the depth and potential for currents suggest confidence in these areas is beneficial. Visibility is generally good, but like any exposed site, it can be subject to swings based on oceanic conditions. Water temperatures are warm, ranging from 22°C to 26°C, but divers should account for potential cooler sensations at depth. These conditions, combined with the maximum depth of 27 meters, make Dibley's Dropoff most suitable for confident and experienced divers.

Liveaboards diving Dibley’s

These liveaboards may visit Dibley’s on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Spoilsport

Australia

28 guests30 m

$408/day

Odyssey Liveaboard

Australia

20 guests24 m

$392/day