

Best for beginner divers, 20-65m, boat entry, mild current.
Shrimp Reef is a wall and reef site located in Queensland, Australia. The topography features a wall dropping from 20 to 65 metres, though the upper sections at approximately 7 metres are most suitable for beginners. Divers experience mild currents and visibility ranging from 15 to 30 metres. The site supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates typical of the region. Boat access is required to reach the reef. Divers should monitor their depth gauge closely to avoid drifting deeper than intended along the wall face. The Australian Institute of Marine Science monitors this location for Crown-of-Thorns Starfish outbreaks.
-18.96894, 148.04964
Stick to the upper portion of the wall and keep an eye on your depth gauge, as it is surprisingly easy to drift deeper than intended along a wall dive. May through October gives you the most reliable visibility and settled conditions.
Located 20 kilometres northeast of Townsville, the site is reached by a boat journey of more than 30 minutes.
Recorded at this site
Depth
20-65m
Visibility
15-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
24-28°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
The site supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates typical of the Great Barrier Reef habitat.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, provided they stay within the shallower upper sections of the reef.
The wall structure ranges from 20 to 65 metres deep, with an average depth of 7 metres in the upper sections.
Shrimp Reef is accessible by boat only.
The best conditions, including the most reliable visibility and settled weather, occur between May and October.
Diving at Shrimp Reef in Townsville requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Shrimp Reef in Townsville. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Shrimp Reef in Townsville. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 28°C.
Divers at Shrimp Reef in Townsville should be aware of sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Shrimp Reef in Townsville typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Shrimp Reef in Townsville typically ranges from 15 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.