

Best for beginner divers, 1-25m, boat entry.
Moore Reef is an outer Great Barrier Reef site located 40 kilometres from the shore. This pontoon-based location features shallow coral gardens starting at one metre, sloping to a 25-metre drop-off with an average depth of 15 metres. Accessible only by boat, the site is suitable for beginners and offers visibility between 12 and 30 metres. Water temperatures range from 24C to 30C. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of seasonal jellyfish presence between November and May, during which time wearing a stinger suit is recommended. Guided tours, equipment rental, and on-site facilities including toilets and showers are available for visitors.
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April through November brings the most settled conditions and the clearest water, making it the most reliable window for first-time divers. Equipment rental and guided tours are available on-site, so you do not need to bring your own gear.
Moore Reef is accessible via boat or helicopter tours departing from Cairns. Several tour operators, such as Sunlover Cruises and Great Adventures, run day trips to floating pontoons moored at the reef. The boat trip takes approximately 90 minutes from Cairns.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 25m
Visibility
12-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
24-30°C
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
The site supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates within its coral gardens and along the drop-off.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, with shallow coral gardens starting at one metre depth.
The site ranges from one metre in the shallows to 25 metres at the drop-off, with an average depth of 15 metres.
Moore Reef is a boat-only site located 40 kilometres from the shore.
Yes, both diving and snorkelling are available at this site.
The most settled conditions and clearest water occur between April and November.
Diving at Moore Reef in Queensland requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Moore Reef in Queensland. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Moore Reef in Queensland. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C.
Divers at Moore Reef in Queensland should be aware of jellyfish, sharks, stonefish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Visibility at Moore Reef in Queensland typically ranges from 12 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.