

Best for beginner divers, 25-50m, boat entry, mild current.
Star Reef is a boat-access wall and drift dive located in the Far Northern Outer Reefs. The site features a wall structure that descends from 25 to 50 metres, making it suitable for divers of varying experience levels. Beginners should remain in the shallower sections of the wall, ideally no deeper than 18 metres, to avoid the significant depths found at the base. Conditions are generally mild, though visibility can fluctuate between 10 and 30 metres. Divers will encounter crinoids, which are frequently found anchored to the rocky surfaces of the reef. Due to the depth and drift nature of the site, careful buoyancy control is required.
-11.95243, 143.86552
As a beginner, plan your dive on the shallower sections of the wall and resist the temptation to follow it down into the deeper reaches. Check locally for current conditions before heading out, as visibility can vary considerably.
Star Reef is a remote reef in the Far Northern Great Barrier Reef, accessible only by liveaboard vessels, typically departing from Cairns or Port Douglas.
Recorded at this site
Depth
25-50m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
25-29°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Yes, beginners can dive here, but they must stay in the shallower sections of the wall, ideally no deeper than 18 metres, to avoid the deep reaches of the site.
The reef wall runs from 25 to 50 metres deep.
Star Reef is a boat-access site and requires a boat to reach.
Divers can observe crinoids, which are feathery, flower-like animals often found anchored to the rocky surfaces of the reef.
The site is primarily a dive location due to its depth, and there is no information provided regarding suitability for snorkelling.
Diving at Star Reef in Queensland requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Star Reef in Queensland. Water temperatures range from 25°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Star Reef in Queensland are July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at Star Reef in Queensland 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.
Star Reef in Queensland typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Star Reef in Queensland typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.