Canons
Discover an ideal dive site located near Direction Island in the picturesque waters of Australia's Cocos (Keeling) Islands. After enjoying a leisurely lunch on the island, embark on an easy afternoon dive at this renowned spot. As you explore the underwater realm, keep an eye out for Kat, our resident dugong, who graces us with regular sightings. This beloved location is also a popular hangout for dolphins and mantas, as they enter or depart from the nearby lagoon.
Delve into the vibrant marine world which encompasses this dive site, known as Gerhard's Canons. Although the historical canons rumored to be here were not found, we diligently submitted a report to the WA Maritime Museum. It is believed that these worn-out canons may have served as ballast aboard ships, later being discarded when they were no longer needed. In addition to this intriguing history, you may encounter charming garden eels and witness the nesting habits of giant triggerfish during the summer months. Explore the fine sand under the ledges, where white cap partner gobies find their homes.
Sink deeper into the ocean depths, appreciating the excellent visibility of 22 meters and a maximum depth of 21 meters. This dive site welcomes divers of various skill levels, catering to both beginners and advanced enthusiasts. The marine wonders of Home Island and the surrounding Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Islands await, making this close-knit location an easily accessible diving paradise.
While exploring the underwater marvels, you might also chance upon remnants of disused communication cables and various metal strongboxes. A Cable & Wireless equipment rack adds a touch of intrigue to this dive, serving as a reminder of the island's historical connections. Rumors even suggest that these waters might hold the forgotten Clunies-Ross fortune, creating an air of mystery and allure for those who dare to seek it.
Begin your unforgettable diving adventure at this enchanting dive site, where captivating marine life, intriguing historical remnants, and the allure of hidden treasures await. Prepare to be captivated by the wonders that lie beneath the crystal-clear waters of Australia's Cocos (Keeling) Islands.
Delve into the vibrant marine world which encompasses this dive site, known as Gerhard's Canons. Although the historical canons rumored to be here were not found, we diligently submitted a report to the WA Maritime Museum. It is believed that these worn-out canons may have served as ballast aboard ships, later being discarded when they were no longer needed. In addition to this intriguing history, you may encounter charming garden eels and witness the nesting habits of giant triggerfish during the summer months. Explore the fine sand under the ledges, where white cap partner gobies find their homes.
Sink deeper into the ocean depths, appreciating the excellent visibility of 22 meters and a maximum depth of 21 meters. This dive site welcomes divers of various skill levels, catering to both beginners and advanced enthusiasts. The marine wonders of Home Island and the surrounding Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Islands await, making this close-knit location an easily accessible diving paradise.
While exploring the underwater marvels, you might also chance upon remnants of disused communication cables and various metal strongboxes. A Cable & Wireless equipment rack adds a touch of intrigue to this dive, serving as a reminder of the island's historical connections. Rumors even suggest that these waters might hold the forgotten Clunies-Ross fortune, creating an air of mystery and allure for those who dare to seek it.
Begin your unforgettable diving adventure at this enchanting dive site, where captivating marine life, intriguing historical remnants, and the allure of hidden treasures await. Prepare to be captivated by the wonders that lie beneath the crystal-clear waters of Australia's Cocos (Keeling) Islands.
Diving Conditions Score for Canons
6.5
Above AverageDecent conditions, proceed with caution.
The score is based on a calculation of the current weather and sea conditions.
Dive Site Overview for Canons
Depth
21m
Visibility
22m
Experience Level
beginner
advanced
Weather Conditions for Canons
Wave Height
1.92m
Wind Speed
20 m/s
Water Temp
28.9°C
Visibility
8.66km
Cloud Cover
30%
Wave Period
11.3s
Air Temperature
27.5°C
Precipitation
0.1 mm
Detailed 7-Day Diving Forecast for Canons
Alpha
Dive Score Chart for Canons
Best time to dive: 12:00 with score 6.258566666666666/10. Water conditions: Waves 1.84m, Wind 25.2 m/s.Best night dive time: 4:00 with score 5.612633333333334/10.
Chart showing hourly dive conditions including wave height, wind speed, water temperature, and visibility throughout the day.
Sunrise at Canons: 06:00
Sunset at Canons: 18:00
Optimal diving conditions at Canons are affected by daylight hours. Sunrise occurs at 06:00 and sunset at 18:00, which impacts visibility and water temperature for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Best Overall
12:00Score: 6.3/10
Waves: 1.84m (10.6s), Wind: 25.2 m/s
Best Night
4:00Score: 5.6/10
Waves: 1.88m, Wind: 19.3 m/s
Seasonal Analysis for CanonsAlpha
Historical patterns and best seasons for diving at Canons
The dive score combines all factors to rate overall diving conditions throughout the year. Higher scores indicate better diving conditions.
Monthly Dive Score Analysis - Seasonal Diving Conditions
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Seasonal DiveScore Chart
This chart displays monthly diveScore data throughout the year, showing seasonal patterns. The data is presented as a bar chart with an overlaid line graph.Dive scores range from 1 to 10, with 10 being optimal conditions.
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Best Season for Canons
Winter
Avg. Score: 10.0/10
Winter offers the best overall diving conditions with calmer seas and better visibility, despite cooler temperatures.
Best Months for Canons
January
Score: 10.0
February
Score: 10.0
March
Score: 10.0
Ideal Conditions for Canons
Water Temp
26.8°C / 80.2°F
May
Visibility
11.7m / 38.4ft
October
Wave Height
1.9m / 6.2ft
January
Wave Period
8.0s
January
Seasonal Insights for Canons
Canons follows southern hemisphere patterns with May being the warmest month (26.8°C) and November the coldest (21.8°C). The calmest conditions typically occur in January with average wave heights of 1.9m and wave periods of 8.0s. The most comfortable wave conditions are in January with a low wave steepness ratio, creating gentler swells. January offers the longest wave periods (8.0s), creating more comfortable and predictable conditions for boat entries and exits. Ocean currents are slowest in January (0.5m/s) and strongest in January (0.5m/s). January is usually the driest month with 0.2mm of precipitation. For beginners, the best time to visit would be during January to March, when ocean conditions are calmer with long-period waves and currents are typically weaker. Experienced divers might enjoy the challenges and potentially better visibility during the shoulder seasons, with moderate currents that can improve marine life encounters.
Last updated: 1 min. ago - Jun 22, 2026
Note: This dive site is not a verified dive site. Please dive with caution. This dive site might have incorrect information by the community.
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