

Best for beginner divers, 1-15m, shore & boat entry, mild current.
Fitzroy Island offers accessible fringing reef diving and snorkelling located 25 kilometres from Cairns. The reef begins in shallow water and slopes gently to a maximum depth of 15 metres, with an average depth of 8 metres. Entry is possible from the shore at Welcome Bay or via boat. The site is suitable for beginners, featuring mild currents and warm water temperatures between 24C and 30C. Visibility typically ranges from 5 to 15 metres. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of seasonal jellyfish presence from November to May and local boat traffic. Facilities including air fills, a dive shop, and a cafe are available on the island.
-16.93050, 145.98900
Snorkeling the dock area is tide-dependent; at low tide, it is often impossible to enter without stepping on coral.
Boat trip from Cairns takes about 45 minutes. Once on the island, Nudey Beach is a fifteen-minute walk from the dock.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 15m
Visibility
5-15m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore & Boat
Water Temp
24-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Year-round
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners due to the gentle slope of the reef, shallow starting depths, and generally mild currents.
The reef starts in shallow water and slopes to a maximum depth of 15 metres, with an average depth of 8 metres.
Yes, Fitzroy Island is suitable for both diving and snorkelling, with the reef accessible directly from the shore at Welcome Bay.
Dangerous stinging jellyfish are present from November to May, and a full-body lycra suit is recommended. Additionally, be aware of ferry and tour boat traffic.
Fitzroy Island in Cairns can be accessed both from shore and by boat. Shore entry is possible, but many divers also visit via dive boats for convenience.
Diving at Fitzroy Island in Cairns requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Fitzroy Island in Cairns. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C.
The best months to visit Fitzroy Island in Cairns are May, June, July, August, September, October, January, February, March, April, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Fitzroy Island in Cairns typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Fitzroy Island in Cairns typically ranges from 5 metres to 15 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.