

Best for beginner divers, 0-25m, boat entry, mild current.
Castle Rock is a ribbon reef site located on the outer edge of Agincourt Reef. The topography features a reef structure that descends from the shallows to a depth of 25 metres, incorporating pinnacles, walls, and drop-offs. Access is exclusively by boat, with visibility typically ranging between 15 and 30 metres. While the site is suitable for beginners in shallower sections, divers must remain aware of potential strong currents and vertical currents near wall sections. Water temperatures fluctuate between 25C and 29C throughout the year. Protective suits are recommended during stinger season, which runs from November to May.
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Visit between April and November when weather and water conditions are most reliable, and aim to get in the water early in the day before wind chop builds on the surface.
The site is located on the outer Great Barrier Reef, approximately 65km northeast of Port Douglas. It is accessible only by boat, with numerous tour operators running day trips from the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina in Port Douglas. The boat ride takes about 90 minutes.
Specific accessibility options depend on the tour boat operator. Inquiries should be made directly with the chosen company.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 25m
Visibility
15-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
25-29°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
Best Time
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Yes, the shallower sections of the reef are suitable for beginners.
The reef structure extends from the shallows down to a maximum depth of 25 metres.
Castle Rock is a boat dive located 70 kilometres from the shore, requiring boat access.
The best months to visit are from April to November when weather and water conditions are most reliable.
Divers should be cautious of sharp coral, strong currents, and potential down-currents near walls. Additionally, protective suits are recommended during stinger season from November to May.
Diving at Castle Rock in Port Douglas requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Castle Rock in Port Douglas. Water temperatures range from 25°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Castle Rock in Port Douglas are April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Castle Rock in Port Douglas typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Castle Rock in Port Douglas typically ranges from 15 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.