Diving the Dampier Archipelago

Karratha is known for its warm weather, red dirt, and the stunning turquoise water that surrounds it. And, if you look a little further offshore, you’ll see a truly iconic north west experience: the Dampier Archipelago.

The Dampier Archipelago is an area just off the coast of Karratha made up of 42 islands and islets. Surrounded by gorgeous warm water, it’s one of the more unique things to do in Karratha.

Its beauty is in its diversity. The islands all sit within a 42km radius of Dampier town itself, and each one is different. Some smaller; some piled high with steep rocks. Some larger, skirted by white sandy beaches. Some surrounded by rich mangrove forests—and some you can even set up and camp on.

It’s a gorgeous place for a day trip, but it’s what’s around the islands that make it the true bucket-list spot for snorkelers and divers.

Things to do in Karratha underneath the waves

Out under the water you’ll find flourishing coral reefs, vast gardens of seagrass and sea sponges, and discover an array of colourful nudibranchs hugging the rocks and coral. There are said to be more than 650 species of fish inhabiting the area. From fish like rock cod and mangrove jack, to bright coloured coral trout, butterfly fish, red emperor, and yellowfin bream. You might also catch a quick glimpse of friendly wobbegong sharks and darting moray eels.

The area is also an important nesting area for turtles. When out underneath the waves, you may be lucky enough to see green, loggerhead, flatback, or hawksbill turtles, who all make the Archipelago their home.

Further out among the islands, in the warmer, shallow waters, you might even see the impressive bulk of wandering dugongs. Or see graceful manta rays gliding through the water. Bottlenose dolphins are common guests to the Dampier Archipelago, too, playing above and below the waves.

In deeper waters between the islands, more intrepid divers may go lower. There, you may be lucky to find the occasional leopard shark making its way along the sandy bottom.

Whale watching in the Archipelago

Between June and September, humpback whales can commonly be seen further out in the ocean. On their annual migration from colder Antarctic waters where they spend their summer months, heading north to warmer tropical waters, you can see them breach the waves and slap their tails on the surface—all signs that they’re getting ready to mate.

When is the best time to dive in the Dampier Archipelago?

Diving in the Dampier Archipelago is possible all year round. However, the best time to go is during the dry season, between May and October.

During this time the water cools down to around 21°C–25°C, and the visibility increases, making it a far more enjoyable trip.

What’s particularly great about the Dampier Archipelago is that it’s so spread out, that you’ll feel like you have the whole ocean to yourself. You don’t have to worry about crowds, or nearby boats. Which makes it all the more possible that in the clear, silent water, you’ll be able to make out the haunting sounds of whalesong as they make their way north.

How to do it

The best way to dive the Dampier Archipelago is to go with a guide. There are plenty of experienced and reputable operators offering a variety of tours that get you out within the Archipelago.

Ranging from a few hours to a full day trip, these tour guides will take you to their favourite spots, or help you find the locations with the type of sealife that interests you.

Get in touch with the Karratha Tourism and Visitor Centre to get help finding the Dampier Archipelago dive tour that’s right for you.

Where to stay during your diving holiday

Karratha is the perfect spot to stay when you plan to dive the Dampier Archipelago. And the Karratha International Hotel has you sorted.

Located in the centre of town, it’s an easy drive to access to nearby beaches and boat ramps, or find your dive tour operator.

With a range of comfortable rooms available, and Luce Bar e Cibo offering an authentic Italian al fresco experience amongst our tropical poolside oasis, it’s the perfect place to come home to and unwind after a day spent underneath the waves.

So when you’re starting to plan your dive trip of the Dampier Archipelago, get in touch and book your stay at Karratha International Hotel.