

Best for beginner divers, 0-20m, boat entry, mild current.
Michaelmas Cay is a coral cay situated 40 kilometres from Cairns, featuring a protected lagoon and shallow reef flats. The site topography consists of a gradual slope extending from the surface to deeper sections, with depths ranging from 0 to 20 metres and an average of 15 metres. Access is strictly by boat. Conditions are generally calm with mild currents, though visibility fluctuates between 10 and 30 metres. The site is suitable for beginners, with guided tours and equipment rental available. Hazards include boat traffic, sharp coral, and jellyfish during the wet season from November to May.
-16.60606, 145.97432
May through October brings the best visibility and calmer conditions, so if you can choose your window, aim for that stretch. Guided tours are worth taking on your first visit here as the guides know exactly where to find the turtles and Humphead Maori Wrasse.
Access is via commercial boat tours or private charters departing daily from Cairns Marlin Marina. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes. Access onto the sand cay is restricted to a roped-off area between 9:30 am and 3:00 pm to protect the bird sanctuary.
There is no wheelchair access to the sand cay itself.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 20m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
24-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
150 min
Best Time
Year-round
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, offering shallow reef flats and a protected lagoon with generally calm conditions.
The site features depths ranging from 0 to 20 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres.
Yes, both diving and snorkelling are permitted at Michaelmas Cay, with guided tours and equipment rental available for visitors.
The site can be visited year-round, though May through October typically offers the best visibility and calmer conditions.
Access to Michaelmas Cay is by boat only, as it is located 40 kilometres from Cairns.
Hazards include boat traffic, sharp coral, and jellyfish during the wet season from November to May.
Diving at Michaelmas Cay in Queensland requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Michaelmas Cay in Queensland. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Michaelmas Cay in Queensland. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C.
Michaelmas Cay in Queensland typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Michaelmas Cay in Queensland typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.