

Best for advanced divers, 2-40m, boat entry, moderate current.
Pixie Pinnacle is a boat-access site located near Lizard Island and the Ribbon Reefs. This pinnacle offers a vertical profile ranging from 2 to 40 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Divers encounter moderate to strong tidal currents that support a diverse ecosystem. Marine life includes very common wrasses, alongside uncommon sightings of whitetip reef sharks, Indian lionfish, coral grouper, and Chromodoris nudibranchs. Rare species such as Napoleon wrasse, leaf scorpionfish, red bass, and freckled hawkfish are also recorded. Due to the depth and current conditions, this site is suitable for advanced divers. Visibility typically ranges from 10 to 30 metres, with water temperatures between 25 and 28C.
-14.92990, 145.67560
May through October brings the most reliable conditions, with the clearest visibility and more predictable current patterns. Plan your dive around slack tide if possible, as the current here can make depth management genuinely demanding.
Access is by liveaboard dive vessels, typically departing from Cairns or Port Douglas. The site is located on the outer Great Barrier Reef, specifically on the Ribbon Reefs.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 40m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
25-28°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Divers regularly encounter wrasses, while uncommon species include whitetip reef sharks, Indian lionfish, coral grouper, and Chromodoris nudibranchs. Rare sightings include Napoleon wrasse, leaf scorpionfish, red bass, and freckled hawkfish.
No, Pixie Pinnacle is intended for advanced divers due to the depth, potential for strong currents, and the requirement for precise buoyancy control.
The site spans a depth range of 2 to 40 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
This is a boat-access site located 160 kilometres from shore; a boat is required to reach the pinnacle.
The most reliable conditions, including the clearest visibility and predictable current patterns, occur from May through October.
Diving at Pixie Pinnacle in Cooktown requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Pixie Pinnacle in Cooktown. Water temperatures range from 25°C to 28°C.
Divers at Pixie Pinnacle in Cooktown should be aware of lionfish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Expect moderate currents at Pixie Pinnacle in Cooktown. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Pixie Pinnacle in Cooktown typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.