Scuba Diving Norfolk Island, NSW

Known for its Norfolk Island Pine, which is the symbol of its flag, Norfolk Island lies within the borders of Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia along the shores of the Pacific Ocean. The island has a volcanic origin and is about a third of its 3,445 hectare land area, which consist of its protected sites. Lying in the southern region of Norfolk Island are two uninhabited islands named Nepean and Philip Islands.

In the year 1774, the discoverer of Norfolk Island, Captain James Cook, named it after the ninth Duchess of Norfolk. By the year 1788, it was established as a penal settlement and was recognized as the next oldest British colony.

Norfolk Island is considered a peaceful paradise for diving enthusiasts. Due to strict government control, its reserves and national parks remain untouched. Large species of birds abound in Nepean and Philip islands. Its lagoons and coral reefs are home to more than a hundred species of hard and soft corals.

The island also provides sports enthusiasts an access to several vigorous activities like golf, bowling, tennis, swimming, and target shooting. In addition to these sports, the place also offers various water recreations like snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing. There are actually two popular diving spots in the place; Kingston and Sydney Bay possess picturesque beaches and abundant marine life.

For those who are not into diving, trekking is an alternative activity in Norfolk Island. Visitors can explore the majestic Mt. Bates and Mt. Pitt. Meanwhile, for those who enjoy touring, they can either go to the different sites the place can offer by riding a horse or a four-wheel drive.

Furthermore, food lovers will definitely find Norfolk their haven. The island offers a wide variety of restaurants that serve luscious and hearty seafood meals. People from all walks of life and from various countries will absolutely enjoy their stay in the vicinity since it is throbbing with cafes and fastfood chains offering foreign cuisines like Indian, Chinese, and Italian. However, for the adventurous and curious-type traveler, he can either try Polynesian meals at the restaurants or those that are served by the hospitable locals.

Gaining a passage to the island is strictly regulated by immigration policies. The Australian passport authorities require local and foreign tourists to secure a passport or a Document of Identity in order to visit the said place. The passport should have a 30-day validity.

Air travel to Norfolk Island is possible through Air New Zealand or Qantas Air. The length of the flight may range from two to two and a half hours. Finding a public transport is unlikely although renting a car is affordable. Accommodation packages may vary depending on the budget of the tourist. A few of its hotels have performing bands for the entertainment of the travelers.

Dive Sites

Dive Site: BLACK BANK, Good walls, small caves with backdoor exits
Depth: 20 metres
Marine life: Cat fish,
Rating: ** 1/2
Getting there: Reached by boat and is about 20 minutes away from Island

Dive Site: SOUTH ROCK
Depth: 45 metres
Suited For: Strictly for experienced divers only
Marine life: Colorful reef fish, pelagic fish, bronze whalers
Rating: ***
Getting there: Reached by boat and is about 40 minutes from the Coffs Harbour. Located just south west of Phillip Island.