Explore Marlborough Sounds
Nestled in the northernmost tip of New Zealand's South Island, Marlborough Sounds offers an extraordinary diving experience that combines natural beauty with historical intrigue. Renowned for its extensive coastline, this region provides a myriad of dive sites ranging from tranquil marine reserves to fascinating shipwrecks. One of the most captivating sites is the Mikhail Lermontov, a massive Russian cruise liner that sank in 1986. Now one of the largest diveable wrecks in the southern hemisphere, it attracts divers eager to explore its remnants and the marine life thriving around it.
The diving environments in Marlborough Sounds vary widely, ensuring an adventure for every type of diver. From vibrant reefs teeming with New Zealand's unique marine species to the sheltered coves of Long Island Marine Reserve, the diversity is astounding. The reserve, established nearly 30 years ago, is a testament to conservation efforts, offering a sanctuary for a plethora of marine life. The sheltered landscapes of the Sounds provide consistent diving conditions year-round, with water temperatures ranging from 11°C–20°C/52°F–68°F. While some sites are accessible from the shore, most require a boat, adding an element of seafaring adventure to your diving expeditions. Whether you're navigating the depths of historic shipwrecks or marveling at the colorful sea life, Marlborough Sounds promises a diving experience unlike any other.
Dive Activity
Diving in Marlborough Sounds
Marlborough Sounds in New Zealand offers diverse diving experiences for enthusiasts. One of the top sites is the Mikhail Lermontov wreck, a massive ocean liner that sank in 1986, providing an extraordinary wreck dive with various entry points and intriguing interiors to explore. For shore diving, the Long Island Marine Reserve boasts crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, including colorful fish and kelp forests, making it a favorite among divers. Night diving in Marlborough Sounds reveals unique underwater behaviors, such as bioluminescent creatures and nocturnal fish activity. The area offers a balanced mix of shore and liveaboard diving options, catering to different preferences and levels of experience. Whether you're exploring historic wrecks or vibrant marine reserves, Marlborough Sounds promises unforgettable underwater adventures.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Marlborough Sounds
Marlborough Sounds, located at the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island, offers a rich marine ecosystem teeming with life. Common reef fish species include blue cod and tarakihi, often spotted around the rocky reefs and kelp beds. Divers frequently encounter these fish, making them a staple of the underwater landscape.
During the warmer months, the waters become home to seasonal visitors such as rays, which glide gracefully across the seabed. The summer season may also bring occasional sightings of turtles and small shark species, although these are less common and depend on water temperature and food availability. With its diverse marine life, Marlborough Sounds offers a dynamic environment for exploration throughout the year.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 600
iStock/ultramarinfoto
27 Sightings
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Total number of species: 300
Alamy/Reinhard Dirscherl
Octopus
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Total number of species: 22
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Cod
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 3000
SSI-Peter-Schinck
Nudibranch
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Total number of species: 190
Alamy-Water Frame
Conger Eel
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 250
iStock-Miguel-Angelo-Silva.
Scorpionfish
9 Sightings
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Total number of species: 60
iStock-Global_Pics
Spiny Lobster
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Total number of species: 40
iStock-wrangel
Triggerfish
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Total number of species: 19
Alamy-Alex Mustard
Seal
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 80
iStock/Extreme-Photographer
Stingrays
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The best Months to dive in Marlborough Sounds
Marlborough Sounds offers diving opportunities throughout the year, with conditions varying by season. During summer, water temperatures range from 17°C–21°C/63°F–70°F, providing warmer conditions for diving. In winter, temperatures drop to around 12°C–14°C/54°F–57°F. Visibility can range from 5 to 20 meters/16 to 66 feet, generally improving in the colder months when plankton levels decrease.
Although diving is possible year-round, divers should be aware of local weather factors. Wind can significantly impact diving conditions, particularly in exposed areas, while tidal currents may affect visibility and safety. The most favorable diving conditions are often found in late spring and early autumn when weather is stable, and water temperatures are moderate.
