Wreck Dive - The Speedwell

Explore a Piece of Central Coast Maritime History

Discover the scattered remains of the Speedwell, a historic sailing ship lost on the notorious Bull Reef between Bird Island and Norah Head on April 14th, 1884.

The 350-ton barquentine Speedwell was travelling in ballast from Newcastle to Sydney when, during heavy weather, she sought shelter near Norah Head. According to historical accounts, Captain Sampson believed the vessel was caught by a powerful whirlpool-like current that swept her broadside onto the rocky reef.

The impact mortally damaged the ship. She quickly began taking on water and sank, scattering wreckage across the reef. Fortunately, with the vessel close to shore, all ten crew members escaped.

Today, more than a century of ocean conditions have reduced the Speedwell to scattered remains, but divers can still discover pieces of the wreck across the reef, including a large anchor and sections of ship plating.

A Great Shallow-Water Wreck Adventure

With depths ranging from approximately 8 to 14 metres, the Speedwell offers a very different wreck experience from the deeper offshore wrecks of the Central Coast.

The relatively shallow depth provides plenty of time to explore the reef, search for remnants of the vessel and imagine the dramatic events that unfolded here more than a century ago.

Although shallow, this remains an offshore reef and wreck dive, so participation is subject to diver experience, certification and prevailing sea and weather conditions.

Boat Dive from Norah Head

The Speedwell is accessed by boat from Norah Head, with trips subject to suitable boating and diving conditions.

Minimum numbers apply — six divers are required for the trip to proceed.

Dive the Wreck. Discover the Story.

This isn't about exploring an intact shipwreck. It's about discovering the scattered remains of a vessel claimed by one of the Central Coast's notorious reefs and diving directly into a fascinating piece of local maritime history.

Grab your buddy, book your place and come searching for the Speedwell.