Rottnest Island is without question the premier diving location adjacent to Perth. No other Australian capital city can boast such a stunning recreational facility right on its doorstep. With more than 200 individual dive sites to choose from Rottnest offers pristine diving conditions regardless of weather.
Once underwater the diver can experience massive limestone caverns and tunnels interspersed with meadows of seagrass, sponges and soft corals. Torches are recommended for the Rottnest dives with plenty of soft corals and critters to be seen in the large limestone caves. Warm subtropical currents ensure that the marine environment surrounding Rottnest is one of the richest on earth. The island itself is a rich mosaic of history and culture interspersed with varied recreational activities, to ensure an interesting interlude for even the most jaded traveller. The quiet bays and scenic walks offer something for everyone and after the excitement of the morning diving, are charming contrasts. Deep, blue water can be found at the West End of Rottnest Island, although, diving is not always possible due to conditions. |
Our Boat
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The Lionfish or butterfly cod is a beautiful delicate tropical fish and is the emblem of the Perth Diving Academy. The Academy has owned various charter vessels over the last twenty years, four of which have been called Lionfish. The current vessel is Lionfish IV.
Lionfish IV is a 24 metre custom built aluminium vessel designed for dive groups with all of the comforts required for day and evening charters. Lionfish IV runs day and evening charters from the PDA Fremantle facility. Lionfish IV also caters for Social clubs and functions for up to 100 passengers on our Swan River cruises. Details are available from PDA or on the web-site under River Cruises.
Before divers enter the water the dive tender is launched at all dive sites for rapid pick-ups and to keep the area clear from other boating traffic. Once the dive is completed 'Lionfish IV' offers hot shower and toilet facilities for personal comfort. It is also comforting to know that if needed, oxygen and a comprehensive first aid kit are also available. Easy water entry/exit is assured via the side doors and the full width dive platform at the rear of the boat. |
Schedule
Because of seasonal weather changes the number of days per week that Rottnest trips are scheduled varies considerably. In December, January and February trips are scheduled every day of the week. For June, July and August only Thursday to Sunday trips are scheduled. Bookings are essential and payment in full is required at time of booking.
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Cost
Trips depart from PDA Fremantle. Latest boarding time is 30 minutes prior to departure. Bookings can be made at either store but will only be taken when accompanied by payment. Over the phone credit card bookings are available. All prices are in Australian Dollars. For Club member rates and pre-paid multi-diver cards click here.
I'm a PDA Dive Club Member, what are my rates?
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Rottnest Day Trip $140.00
Lionfish IV departs daily (subject to bookings) for Rottnest Island at 9.30am and returns to the shop at approximately 4.30pm. Two dives are carried out and lunch is served on the vessel. A second cylinder for the afternoon dive is included in the price as well as morning and afternoon teas.
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Rottnest Single Dive $70.00
This covers the single dives to Rottnest including night dives (soup & garlic bread) and early morning dives (Coffee/Tea toast). Saturday and Sunday only. Departs at 6.30am for destinations such as Parker Point and Roe Reef at Rottnest and Jackson Rock or Champion Reef. Lionfish IV arrives back at approximately 9.00am. A light breakfast (cereals, toast and coffee) is served during the return trip to Fremantle.
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Equipment Hire
If you require hire equipment you will need to book and pay for it at the same time as your dive booking. As always PDA offers the best quality hire equipment to its' clients. PDA hire equipment is replaced every 12 months to ensure you have modern, up to date equipment in excellent working condition.
The rate for equipment hire varies from diver to diver depending on what you have of your own. If you own nothing and have to hire all equipment it is $75.00 plus the cost of the dive. For travelling divers who have everything but did not travel with weights and cylinders the cost is $15 plus the dive cost
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Bookings
To book any boat trip call:
PDA Hillarys on 08 94486343 (International +61894486343)
PBA Balcatta on 08 93441562 (International +61893441562).
Most trips have available spaces up to week prior to departure but during peak summer months the boats may fill weeks earlier.
Phone or email ahead to check availablity and if necessary pay for the dive to ensure your place. |
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Last Updated on Saturday, 06 February 2010 15:49 |
Boat Charters 
