

Best for beginner divers, 1-18m, boat entry, mild current.
Mackerel Bay on Hook Island is a reef site suitable for beginner divers, offering depths between 1 and 18 metres with an average of 12 metres. Access is by boat only. The site features mild currents, though visibility varies significantly from 2 to 30 metres. Following damage from Cyclone Debbie in 2017, the reef is currently in a state of recovery. Divers should note that the site is exposed to southerly winds and can experience surf. Species recorded around this area include Napoleon Wrasse, Green Sea Turtles, Giant Trevally, Barramundi Cod, and various species of wrasse, angelfish, and butterflyfish. Always check locally for stinger activity before entering the water.
-20.07417, 148.96361
August through December brings the best conditions, so plan your visit within that window if you can. Check locally for current jellyfish activity before you get in, as it can vary significantly.
Access is via boat, typically on day tours or multi-day cruises departing from Abell Point Marina at Airlie Beach. The specific snorkeling/diving spots are chosen by the operator based on sea conditions.
string
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 18m
Visibility
2-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
22-29°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
60 min
Best Time
Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
Species recorded around this area include Napoleon Wrasse, Green Sea Turtles, Giant Trevally, Barramundi Cod, Bluefaced Angelfish, and various wrasses.
Yes, Mackerel Bay is considered suitable for beginner divers due to its manageable depths and mild currents.
The site ranges from 1 to 18 metres in depth, with an average depth of 12 metres.
This is a boat-access site; a boat is required to reach the reef.
The best conditions for diving at Mackerel Bay occur from August through December.
The site is exposed to southerly winds and can experience surf. Additionally, stinger season is a consideration in the Whitsundays, so check locally for jellyfish activity.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Mackerel Bay in Whitsundays. Water temperatures range from 22°C to 29°C.
Mackerel Bay in Whitsundays typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Mackerel Bay in Whitsundays typically ranges from 2 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.