Cray’s Crack
Underwater, this site is a haven for diverse marine life. It boasts an abundance of black coral and Ecklonia kelp, contributing to the vibrant underwater scenery. Divers can also encounter a variety of captivating species, including crayfish, jock stewart, wrasses, butterfly perch, and schooling tarakihi. Additionally, sightings of dogsharks and carpet sharks are not uncommon.
Located near Dale Point in the Fiordland Community of New Zealand's Southland District, this captivating dive site offers an unforgettable experience for divers of all skill levels. From beginners to advanced and expert divers, everyone can revel in the beauty and richness of this underwater paradise.
Experience visibility of approximately 13 meters, allowing divers to fully appreciate the surrounding marine world. With a maximum depth of 19 meters, this site offers ample exploration opportunities while ensuring a safe and enjoyable dive.
So, whether you're a beginner diver eager to embark on your first underwater adventure or an experienced enthusiast seeking new thrills, this dive site in New Zealand's stunning Southland region is not to be missed.
Diving Conditions Score for Cray’s Crack
Challenging conditions, for experienced divers only.
The score is based on a calculation of the current weather and sea conditions.
Dive Site Overview for Cray’s Crack
Depth
19m
Visibility
13m
Experience Level
Weather Conditions for Cray’s Crack
Wave Height
2.72m
Wind Speed
1.4 m/s
Water Temp
13.7°C
Visibility
560m
Cloud Cover
100%
Wave Period
9.45s
Air Temperature
8.5°C
Precipitation
7 mm
Dive Score Chart for Cray’s Crack
Best time to dive: 8:00 with score 5.598366666666666/10. Water conditions: Waves 2.9m, Wind 2.6 m/s.Best night dive time: 23:00 with score 5.158833333333333/10.
Chart showing hourly dive conditions including wave height, wind speed, water temperature, and visibility throughout the day.
Optimal diving conditions at Cray’s Crack 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.
Score: 5.6/10
Waves: 2.9m (9.2s), Wind: 2.6 m/s
Score: 5.2/10
Waves: 2.36m, Wind: 4.7 m/s
Seasonal Analysis for Cray’s CrackAlpha
Historical patterns and best seasons for diving at Cray’s Crack
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 Cray’s Crack
Summer
Summer offers the warmest water temperatures and generally favorable conditions for all levels of divers.
Best Months for Cray’s Crack
Ideal Conditions for Cray’s Crack
Water Temp
14.8°C / 58.6°F
March
Visibility
17.4m / 57.1ft
January
Wave Height
0.2m / 0.7ft
January
Wave Period
8.0s
January
Seasonal Insights for Cray’s Crack
Cray’s Crack follows southern hemisphere patterns with March being the warmest month (14.8°C) and July the coldest (6.5°C). The calmest conditions typically occur in January with average wave heights of 0.2m 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). February is usually the driest month with 1.0mm 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 20, 2026