Best for advanced divers, 1-40m, boat entry, moderate current.
Frederick Reefs is an isolated reef system located in the Coral Sea, Australia. The topography features shallow reef crests starting at 1 metre, descending to vertical drop-offs and walls that reach 40 metres. Divers encounter swim-throughs and caves throughout the site. Due to the remote location, strong and unpredictable currents, and depths averaging 25 metres, this site is strictly for advanced divers. Boat access is required, and the site is suitable for drift and night diving. Visibility is exceptional, ranging from 30 to 90 metres. Divers must be self-sufficient, as emergency assistance is distant and decompression obligations are a significant consideration.
-20.96670, 154.38300
Plan your bottom time carefully before you enter, as the depth and current at Frederick Reefs make decompression obligations a genuine risk rather than an edge case. May through November offers the most stable conditions for this remote boat-access site.
Access is only possible via multi-day liveaboard charters, which typically depart from mainland Queensland ports like Gladstone or Cairns.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Depth
Up to 40m
Visibility
30-90m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
24-28°C
Current
Moderate
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
No nearby dive sites found within 50km.
The site ranges from 1 metre at the reef crests to 40 metres at the base of the drop-offs, with an average depth of 25 metres.
No, Frederick Reefs is intended for advanced divers only due to the remote location, strong currents, and potential for decompression requirements.
Access is by boat only, as the reef is located 410 kilometres from the shore.
Snorkelling is not recommended, with a rating of 1 out of 5 due to the depth, strong currents, and remote nature of the site.
The most stable conditions occur between May and November.
Diving at Frederick Reefs in Coral Sea requires the following certifications: Advanced, Deep. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Frederick Reefs in Coral Sea. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 28°C.
Expect moderate currents at Frederick Reefs in Coral Sea. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Frederick Reefs in Coral Sea typically ranges from 30 metres to 90 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.
