Dive Sites at Kurnell: A Historical and Marine Haven

A Brief History

Kurnell, a beautiful suburb of Sydney, is a gem on the surface and beneath the sea. This locality holds a significant place in Australia's history as it was the landing site of Captain James Cook in 1770. Today, while the historical richness of Kurnell continues to resonate above the ground underwater, it offers an equally enriching experience for scuba diving enthusiasts.

Dive Sites at Kurnell

From the enchanting marine life to the spectacular underwater terrain, each dive site at Kurnell tells a unique story. Let's delve deeper into these underwater wonderlands:

	Dive	Start Date
	Leap to Steps - Shore Dive	Friday 06 Dec 2024
Start Date: Fri 06 Dec 2024 at 10:00 For this dive you must be confident in the water. This site is one of our favourites and is usually conducted as a drift dive with the incoming tide. It is a bit of a clif walk down, you need to be confident in the water. Step off the rocks into the big blue and let your self be taken along the wall, looking for weedy seadragons, rays and Pj’s. Its always good to get to the site early to get set up and then park your car at the exit point. The second dive will be held at The Steps. Be at the store at more than 30 mins before to collect your gear and meet your dive masters before driving yourself to the site. Request More Info
	The Steps - Shore Dive	Saturday 07 Dec 2024
Start Date: Sat 07 Dec 2024 at 09:00 This is a double dive at the Steps in Kurnell National Park. Spot the weedy sea dragons on the sand line and enjoy the sponges! Keep an eye out for the pot belly seahorses! Be at the store at more than 30 mins before to collect your gear and meet your dive masters before driving yourself to the site. Request More Info
	Leap to Steps - Shore Dive	Saturday 21 Dec 2024
Start Date: Sat 21 Dec 2024 at 09:00 For this dive you must be confident in the water. This site is one of our favourites and is usually conducted as a drift dive with the incoming tide. It is a bit of a clif walk down, you need to be confident in the water. Step off the rocks into the big blue and let your self be taken along the wall, looking for weedy seadragons, rays and Pj’s. Its always good to get to the site early to get set up and then park your car at the exit point. The second dive will be held at The Steps. Be at the store at more than 30 mins before to collect your gear and meet your dive masters before driving yourself to the site. Request More Info
	Sutherland Point - Shore Dive	Sunday 22 Dec 2024
Start Date: Sun 22 Dec 2024 at 09:00 BBQ Bring your SANTA hat! This is a double dive and leaves the shop at 9am with the location of the site is in the Captain Cook National Park at Kurnell. Sutherland Point is a prime site for seeing Weedy Sea Dragon, and is an extremely interesting site which always shows up something new. it is an easy walk to the entry point with toilet facilities at the site. There as a nat park entry fee. Be at the store at more than 30 mins before to collect your gear and meet your dive masters before driving yourself to the site. Request More Info
	The Steps - Shore Dive	Saturday 28 Dec 2024
Start Date: Sat 28 Dec 2024 at 09:00 This is a double dive at the Steps in Kurnell National Park. Spot the weedy sea dragons on the sand line and enjoy the sponges! Keep an eye out for the pot belly seahorses! Be at the store at more than 30 mins before to collect your gear and meet your dive masters before driving yourself to the site. Request More Info
	The Steps - Shore Dive	Friday 03 Jan 2025
Start Date: Fri 03 Jan 2025 at 10:00 This is a double dive at the Steps in Kurnell National Park. Spot the weedy sea dragons on the sand line and enjoy the sponges! Keep an eye out for the pot belly seahorses! Be at the store at more than 30 mins before to collect your gear and meet your dive masters before driving yourself to the site. Request More Info
	The Steps - Shore Dive	Sunday 05 Jan 2025
Start Date: Sun 05 Jan 2025 at 09:00 This is a double dive at the Steps in Kurnell National Park. Spot the weedy sea dragons on the sand line and enjoy the sponges! Keep an eye out for the pot belly seahorses! Be at the store at more than 30 mins before to collect your gear and meet your dive masters before driving yourself to the site. Request More Info
	Leap to Steps - Shore Dive	Saturday 18 Jan 2025
Start Date: Sat 18 Jan 2025 at 09:00 For this dive you must be confident in the water. This site is one of our favourites and is usually conducted as a drift dive with the incoming tide. It is a bit of a clif walk down, you need to be confident in the water. Step off the rocks into the big blue and let your self be taken along the wall, looking for weedy seadragons, rays and Pj’s. Its always good to get to the site early to get set up and then park your car at the exit point. The second dive will be held at The Steps. Be at the store at more than 30 mins before to collect your gear and meet your dive masters before driving yourself to the site. Request More Info
	Sutherland Point - Shore Dive	Sunday 19 Jan 2025
Start Date: Sun 19 Jan 2025 at 09:00 BBQ Bring your SANTA hat! This is a double dive and leaves the shop at 9am with the location of the site is in the Captain Cook National Park at Kurnell. Sutherland Point is a prime site for seeing Weedy Sea Dragon, and is an extremely interesting site which always shows up something new. it is an easy walk to the entry point with toilet facilities at the site. There as a nat park entry fee. Be at the store at more than 30 mins before to collect your gear and meet your dive masters before driving yourself to the site. Request More Info
	The Steps - Shore Dive	Friday 24 Jan 2025
Start Date: Fri 24 Jan 2025 at 10:00 This is a double dive at the Steps in Kurnell National Park. Spot the weedy sea dragons on the sand line and enjoy the sponges! Keep an eye out for the pot belly seahorses! Be at the store at more than 30 mins before to collect your gear and meet your dive masters before driving yourself to the site. Request More Info

Inscription Point (Sutherland Point)

Inscription Point is a popular choice among both novice and experienced divers. The shallow depth and calm waters make it an ideal starting point for beginners. What makes this site stand out is its rich marine biodiversity. Divers can expect to encounter Weedy Sea Dragons, Blue Gropers, and even the occasional Grey Nurse Shark.

The Steps

The Steps is a favourite among macro photographers due to its diverse population of nudibranchs. The site is named after the concrete steps that lead down to the water. Despite the strong currents at times, The Steps offer an exciting challenge for more advanced divers.

The Leap

Arguably the most renowned among Kurnell's dive sites, The Leap is an adrenaline-pumping destination for experienced divers. Named after the leap of faith, divers take off the platform into the water, this site offers a unique mix of thrill and awe-inspiring beauty.

The entry might be a challenge, but once you're underwater, the stunning scenery of sponge gardens, soft corals, and a plethora of marine life will leave you mesmerized. The Leap is famous for its "sand line" dive, where you can spot numerous Weedy Sea Dragons, Red Indian fish, and even Pot-bellied Seahorses.

The currents here can be strong, so it's recommended for advanced divers. But for those who dare to take the leap, the rewards are immense – an unforgettable diving experience that encapsulates Australia's underwater world's raw beauty and vibrant biodiversity.

Marvelous Marine Life and Spectacular Sponge Gardens

The underwater world of Kurnell is teeming with a variety of marine species. Perhaps the most enchanting of all is the Weedy Sea Dragon, a creature straight out of a fantasy book. Their leaf-like appendages and vibrant colours make them a joy to spot.

Blue Groupers, friendly and curious, are also a common sight at Kurnell's dive sites. Their boldness often leads them to swim alongside divers, making for a delightful underwater companion. Other species you might encounter include the elusive Grey Nurse Shark, the vibrant Red Indian fish, and the fascinating Pot-bellied Seahorses.

But the marine life is not all there is to Kurnell's underwater charm. One of the highlights of diving here is the mesmerizing sponge gardens. These underwater landscapes look like something out of a dream, with their vivid colours and intricate structures. Despite their simple appearance, sponges play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. They provide a habitat for many small creatures and contribute to nutrient cycling.

You'll find these sponge gardens in abundance at sites like The Leap. Soft corals and sea fans add to the beauty, creating an underwater vista that is a photographer’s delight. The sponge gardens aren't just a treat for the eyes, but they also give divers a glimpse into our oceans' rich biodiversity and intricate ecosystems.

Whether it’s the captivating marine creatures or the spectacular sponge gardens, diving at Kurnell is truly a feast for the senses. It's an experience that serves as a reminder of life's beauty, diversity, and complexity beneath the waves.

Concluding Thoughts

Kurnell's dive sites are a perfect blend of Australia's rich history and an abundant marine world waiting to be explored. Whether you're just beginning your scuba diving journey or you're a seasoned diver seeking a new adventure, Kurnell offers an underwater experience like no other. So gear up, dive in, and let the wonders of Kurnell captivate you!

Note: Always remember to check current conditions and ensure you're properly equipped before starting your dive.