

Best for intermediate divers, 6-25m, shore & boat entry, strong current.
Pelorus and Orpheus Islands offer a diverse underwater environment featuring reef, wall, and drift terrain. Located in the Palm Island group, the site reaches depths between 6 and 25 metres, with an average of 15 metres. The defining characteristic is the strong current flowing through the channel between the islands, which facilitates exhilarating drift dives for intermediate divers. Visibility varies between 3 and 15 metres depending on tidal conditions. Both shore and boat entries are possible, and the site supports night diving. Divers should be aware of hazards including strong currents, jellyfish, sharks, and sharp coral. Tidal tables should be consulted to plan dives around slack water.
-18.60800, 146.49000
The strong currents make timing your dive around slack water worthwhile, so check tidal tables before you go. Facilities vary between sites, so confirm gear hire and boat access locally before making the trip.
The islands are accessed via a 30-minute boat trip from Lucinda Jetty. Lucinda is approximately a two-hour drive north of Townsville. While camping on the island allows for shore entry, boat access is required to get to the islands.
string
Recorded at this site
Depth
6-25m
Visibility
3-15m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Shore & Boat
Water Temp
23-29°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
40 min
Best Time
Year-round
The site supports a variety of marine life, including leopard sharks, guitar sharks, grey reef sharks, Queensland grouper, giant clams, coral trout, parrotfish, and turtles. Manta rays and humpback whales are also observed in the area.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers. The strong currents in the channel require confident buoyancy control and experience.
Depths range from 6 to 25 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres.
Snorkelling is not recommended, as the site has a snorkel rating of 1 out of 5.
Diving is possible year-round, with the best months spanning from January through December.
Both shore and boat entries are available across the area, with boat charters and guided tours offered locally.
Diving at Pelorus and Orpheus Islands in Townsville Region requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Pelorus and Orpheus Islands in Townsville Region. Water temperatures range from 23°C to 29°C.
Divers at Pelorus and Orpheus Islands in Townsville Region should be aware of jellyfish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Pelorus and Orpheus Islands in Townsville Region can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at Pelorus and Orpheus Islands in Townsville Region typically ranges from 3 metres to 15 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.