Nauti-Plans
Port Hughes Jetty
nautiplans
There is an abundance of diving opportunity on Yorke Peninsula, and the easy access to shore diving allows dives to be completed at your own pace. You can dive in the morning, and then in the evening, on dusk or at night. Here are some nauti-plans to consider‌
Port Hughes jetty is a shallow dive allowing plenty of time to explore. Depths range from 3m at the steps to 6m at the end of the jetty making it a great site for snorkellers. The majority of the bottom substrate is sea grass interspersed with plenty of razorfish. The razorfish provide shelter for many species, and it is well worth exploring the contents of any shells. If you are persistent enough in your searches you may discover Tasselled, Smooth and Prickly Anglerfish. They use their impressive camouflage to lie in wait, utilising a modified first dorsal spine to lure their prey. This dorsal spine supports the esca, which is the bait. The Smooth Anglerfishes esca mimics amphipod, which are a food source for sand gobies, common under the jetty. The Anglerfishes food source is the goby. Throughout the sea grass you will find Pipefish including the Spotted, Wide-body and Brushtail amongst others. About 20 species of Pipefish are known to be endemic to Southern Australian waters. The beach south of the jetty has a rocky outcrop that is ideal for younger snorkellers, and there is some great reef diving around the bluff although this area can only be reached by boat or 4WD.
The Southern Eagle Ray can grow to approximately 1.2m in width. They are generally majestic swimmers, although they are reported to be able to jump clear of the water and reach very high speeds when necessary. Photograph by Will Scapens.
Endemic Native to or confined to a certain region.
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