

Best for beginner divers, 5-18m, boat entry, mild current.
Turtle Bommie is a reef site located 200 metres from Lady Musgrave Island, Australia. The site features a central coral bommie rising from the seafloor, with depths ranging from 5 to 18 metres and an average of 10 metres. Visibility typically spans 15 to 30 metres. Divers and snorkellers frequently encounter green sea turtles and hawksbill sea turtles resting among the coral. Other common species include wrasses, Pacific bullethead parrotfish, and cleaner wrasse stations. Less common sightings include tasselled wobbegong, bluespotted fantail rays, and various reef fish. Access is by boat only. Be mindful of sharp coral when entering and maintain a safe distance from sharks present in the area.
-23.89900, 152.40290
Book a guided tour if you can, as guides know exactly where the turtles tend to rest and can point out the cleaner wrasse stations that are easy to miss on your own. Keep your fins clear of the coral structure when hovering close for a look.
Accessed by day boat from Cairns, with transit times of around 90 minutes. Entry is by giant stride or back roll from the dive boat.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-18m
Visibility
15-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
22-28°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
You can regularly encounter green sea turtles and hawksbill sea turtles. Other common species include wrasses and Pacific bullethead parrotfish, while less common sightings include tasselled wobbegong, bluespotted fantail rays, and various reef fish.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners due to the mild currents and depths that average 10 metres.
The depth at this site ranges from 5 to 18 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres.
Turtle Bommie requires boat access and is located 200 metres from the shore of Lady Musgrave Island.
Yes, snorkelling is an activity available at this reef site.
Diving at Turtle Bommie in Cairns requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Turtle Bommie in Cairns. Water temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C.
The best months to visit Turtle Bommie in Cairns are June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at Turtle Bommie in Cairns should be aware of jellyfish, stonefish, lionfish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Turtle Bommie in Cairns typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Turtle Bommie in Cairns typically ranges from 15 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.