

Best for beginner divers, 3-30m, boat entry, mild current.
Fish Bowl is a reef site located at Hastings Reef, offering a mix of wall and drop-off topography. Suitable for beginners, the site features depths ranging from 3 to 30 metres with an average of 13 metres. Access is exclusively by boat. Conditions are generally mild with tidal flow and currents remaining manageable. Visibility typically spans 15 to 28 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate between 24C and 29C throughout the year. Divers and snorkellers should exercise caution regarding boat traffic, jellyfish, sharp coral, and stonefish. Guided tours and boat charters are available, and some operators provide disabled access upon request.
-16.52788, 145.99453
May through November brings the most settled conditions and the best visibility, so try to plan your trip within that window. Keep close to your guide on entry from the boat, as the shallower sections of reef have sharp coral that is easy to brush against if you are still getting comfortable in the water.
Accessed by day boat from Cairns, with departures from Marlin Marina at the end of Pier Point Road.
One source mentioned "Disabled access available, contact operator for details".
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-30m
Visibility
15-28m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
24-29°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
The best months to visit are May through November, which offer the most settled conditions and optimal visibility.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners due to its mild currents and comfortable average depth of 13 metres.
The depth ranges from 3 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 13 metres.
Yes, Fish Bowl is suitable for both diving and snorkelling.
Access to Fish Bowl is by boat only; boat charters and guided tours are available from Cairns.
Diving at Fish Bowl in Cairns requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Fish Bowl in Cairns. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 29°C.
Divers at Fish Bowl in Cairns should be aware of jellyfish, stonefish, lionfish, sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Fish Bowl in Cairns typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Fish Bowl in Cairns typically ranges from 15 metres to 28 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.