DivePlnr
    Macdonald Reef dive site
    reef
    5-20m
    Great Barrier Reef, Australia
    Silver Plains

    Macdonald Reef

    Best months: Feb–Mar

    Protected Area

    Silver Plains

    Why dive here

    With 154+ marine species recorded in the area - including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, tiger sharks and napoleon wrasse - Macdonald Reef offers some of Great Barrier Reef's richest reef diving. Water ranges 24-30°C, warmest January, February, March.

    Best timeFeb–Mar
    WetsuitNo wetsuit needed, or a rash guard
    Marine lifeHammerhead Sharks, Sea Turtles, Tiger Sharks and Napoleon Wrasse · 154+ species recorded
    Water24-30°C · warmest January, February, March
    CharacterReef dive · max 5-20m
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    Macdonald Reef offers a solid Great Barrier Reef dive, though it's not always the first pick. You'll find good coral formations here, with plenty of reef fish like parrotfish and anemonefish flitting between the bommies. It’s a reliable spot for a relaxed dive, usually with manageable currents, making it a good choice for newer divers or those looking for a laid-back afternoon underwater. Visibility is typically good, allowing for comfortable exploration.

    Typical Macdonald Reef Dive Profile

    5mSafety Stop0m5m max~60 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

    Strong currents typical this month (avg 30 cm/s). Good buoyancy control essential.

    Today06:0318:2312h 20m daylightGolden hour 17:55

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Macdonald Reef

    Macdonald Reef Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Macdonald Reef, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-15.65, 145.72) (5km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    26°C

    80°F · Range: 24.5–29°C

    Current Speed

    30.07 cm/s

    Direction: S (183.8°)

    Chlorophyll-a

    0.057 mg/m³

    Very clear (oligotrophic)

    Salinity

    35.08 PSU

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)

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