Best for advanced divers, 4-35m, boat entry, moderate current.
Holmes Reef is a remote offshore site in the Coral Sea, located 200 kilometres from the coast. This complex reef system features walls, pinnacles, and caves, with depths ranging from 4 to 35 metres. Due to its exposed location, the site is accessible only by boat charter and is suited for advanced divers. Visibility is high, typically between 15 and 50 metres. Currents are generally moderate but can be strong, facilitating drift dives. The habitat supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates. Divers should be aware of hazards including deep water, strong currents, and sharks. The open ocean crossing can be rough, making seasickness medication advisable.
-16.49850, 147.96670
Time your dives around slack water if your skipper offers the option, as the current can stack up fast against the walls and make cave penetration difficult. September through April gives you the best shot at whale sharks and the clearest conditions.
Access is only possible via liveaboard vessels, which typically depart from Cairns. The trip to Holmes Reef is highly weather-dependent, and captains will only make the crossing in fair conditions.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Depth
4-35m
Visibility
15-50m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
25-29°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
60 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
The site supports a diverse range of reef fish and invertebrates typical of the Coral Sea habitat.
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to the depth, potential for strong currents, and remote offshore location.
The site ranges from 4 to 35 metres, with an average depth of 18 metres.
Boat access is required as the reef is located 200 kilometres from the shore.
Snorkelling is not recommended at Holmes Reef, with a rating of 1 out of 5.
The best months to dive are September, October, November, December, January, February, March, and April.
Diving at Holmes Reef in Coral Sea requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Holmes Reef in Coral Sea. Water temperatures range from 25°C to 29°C.
Expect moderate currents at Holmes Reef in Coral Sea. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Holmes Reef in Coral Sea typically ranges from 15 metres to 50 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.
