About Crystal Palace
The site sits on the outer reef terrace with depths from 8 metres on the reef top to 18 metres in the chambers below. Light shafts cut through openings in the limestone ceiling and large schools of bullseyes and old wives shelter inside. The Leeuwin Current pushes tropical species south, so divers regularly see fish more typical of Ningaloo alongside endemic temperate residents. Boat access only from Rottnest moorings or Fremantle charters.
Region: Rottnest Island, WA
Skill Level: Intermediate
Depth: 8-18m
Water Temperature: 18-23°C
Visibility: 10-20m
Best Time to Dive: December to April
Marine Life: Bullseyes, old wives, western blue groper, harlequin fish, pink snapper, breaksea cod, sponge growth on cave walls, occasional grey nurse shark.
Hazards: Surge inside the chambers, overhead environment in the swim-throughs; cavern not full cave.
Facilities: Boat-only access; charter from Fremantle or Rottnest moorings.