Albany · Western Australia
Scuba Diving at HMAS Perth
A destroyer scuttled in King George Sound as Western Australia's southern artificial reef.
The HMAS Perth, a former guided missile destroyer, was scuttled in King George Sound near Albany in 2001 as an artificial reef and dive attraction.
The wreck sits upright and largely intact, with the superstructure accessible at recreational depths and the seabed deeper.
Southern Ocean conditions mean colder water and narrower weather windows than the state's northern wreck dives.
Recommended: Advanced Open Water Diver. Parts of the site reach 35 m, which needs Deep specialty and recent deep experience. What can I dive with my cert?
Max depth
35 m
typically 25 m
Access
boat
Current
variable
Water temp
15–21°C
Level
intermediate
up to advanced
| Region | Albany |
|---|---|
| State | Western Australia |
| Access | boat |
| Site type | wreck |
| Minimum depth | 12 m |
| Typical depth | 25 m |
| Maximum depth | 35 m |
| Current | variable |
| Visibility | Commonly 10–25 m |
| Water temperature | Roughly 15–21°C |
| Experience level | intermediate, advanced |
These are guidance categories, not guarantees. Conditions on the day, and an operator’s own requirements, override any classification here.
- temperate sponge and soft coral growth
- schooling baitfish
- harlequin fish
- crayfish
- seals occasionally
Access
- Boat access from Albany.
- A dive permit is required.
- Sheltered within King George Sound relative to the open coast.
Hazards
- cold water
- depth
- overhead if penetration is attempted
- weather windows
Businesses documented as regularly diving this site.
Useful Training for Diving HMAS Perth
Not a list of everything available — the qualifications that actually change what you can do at this site.
Dive Sites Similar to HMAS Perth
Worth reading alongside this one.
Planning Guides for Diving HMAS Perth
Practical guides selected from this site's access, environment, wildlife and experience profile.
HMAS Perth Diving FAQs
How deep is HMAS Perth?
Depths range from around 12 metres to roughly 35 metres, with a typical profile around 25 metres. Conditions and route selection change this considerably.
Is HMAS Perth suitable for beginners?
Better suited to divers with some experience beyond entry level, particularly in the local conditions. Discuss your recent diving honestly with the operator rather than relying on certification alone.
How do you get to HMAS Perth?
Boat access from Albany. A dive permit is required.
Is there current at HMAS Perth?
Current is recorded as variable. Conditions vary daily and should be checked close to the day.
What will I see at HMAS Perth?
Commonly reported marine life includes temperate sponge and soft coral growth, schooling baitfish, harlequin fish, crayfish, seals occasionally. Sightings are never guaranteed.
When is the best time to dive HMAS Perth?
Conditions vary through the year. Visibility is commonly 10–25 m. Check with local operators close to your dates.
Where is HMAS Perth?
HMAS Perth is in the Albany region of Western Australia.
Last researched: September 2026. Dive businesses change frequently — confirm current services, prices and requirements directly with the operator before booking.