JACKSON BAY FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Rugged Reefs Off Jackson Bay: Shared Dive Charters to the Open Bay Islands
An eight‑hour shared charter from Jackson Bay that lets certified divers and freedivers tailor dives around the Open Bay Islands, Cascade Point and other West Coast reefs.
Rugged Reefs Off Jackson Bay: Shared Dive Charters to the Open Bay Islands.
Jackson Bay Charters runs flexible shared dive charters from Jackson Bay Wharf that put small groups onto wild West Coast reef systems. The operator configures each day to suit weather, swell, tides and the skills and objectives of participating divers — whether the aim is freediving, scuba reef exploration, underwater photography or gathering crayfish and spearfish.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Rare, Rugged West Coast Reefs
Charters access reef systems around the Open Bay Islands, Cascade Point and other hidden spots along South Westland — places rarely seen by tourists, with dramatic underwater terrain, pristine reefs and abundant marine life.
Tailored Underwater Objectives
Dives are planned around the group’s aims: underwater photography, reef exploration, spearfishing or crayfish gathering are all possible depending on diver interests and skill level.
Ōkahu — A Well‑equipped Dive Platform
The onboard vessel provides a stable hull, dive platform and the safety and comfort facilities needed for day charters — showers, galley and sheltered spaces — so divers can focus on their chosen objectives.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
You’ll meet at Jackson Bay Wharf and depart at a time scheduled to suit the group, transit offshore to a chosen site such as the Open Bay Islands or Cascade Point depending on weather and tide, then conduct dives — freediving or scuba — planned to match each diver’s certification, experience and objectives. The day ends with a return to Jackson Bay Wharf after an eight‑hour charter.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and whom to think twice about.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your own fully serviced dive gear (scuba or freedive) — masks, fins, wetsuit or drysuit, weights, BCD, regulators, dive computer, etc.; plus snacks, water and any cameras you plan to use.
Pack warm, weather‑appropriate layers for surface time, a waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear for boarding and onshore access.
All personal dive equipment should be fully serviced before the charter; bring spares as needed and ensure regulators and computers are in good working order.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the charter?
The charter runs for eight hours.
Where do we meet?
Meeting and departure are at Jackson Bay Wharf, Jackson Bay, South Westland, New Zealand.
Are the dives guided?
No — these charters are not guided; participants are responsible for their own dive planning and in‑water safety.
Can I freedive and scuba on the same day?
Yes. The charter accommodates either freediving or scuba, with dives conducted according to each diver’s certification, experience and local conditions.
Can I plan spearfishing or crayfish gathering during the charter?
Yes—dive objectives can include spearfishing or crayfish gathering depending on diver interests and skill level.
Are tank refills available onboard?
Tank refills are available only by prior arrangement and must be booked ahead.