Michaelmas Reef
Protected Area
Michaelmas and Upolu Cays
Why dive here
With 154+ marine species recorded in the area - including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, tiger sharks and napoleon wrasse - Michaelmas Reef offers some of Great Barrier Reef's richest reef diving. Water ranges 24-30°C, warmest January, February, March.
Michaelmas Reef offers solid Great Barrier Reef diving, particularly for those on day boats out of Cairns. We've seen plenty of reef sharks cruising the outer edges and good schools of parrotfish working the shallower coral. It’s a decent spot for a casual dive, especially if you appreciate a classic GBR reefscape without strong currents. Good for newer divers or those looking for a relaxed multi-dive day.
Safety Notes
Strong currents typical this month (avg 30 cm/s). Good buoyancy control essential.
Nearest Dive Centres to Michaelmas Reef
Dive shops near Michaelmas Reef
Dive Centre
Horseshoe
Octopus Dive
Blue-Cruise Pty.Ltd
Reef Daytripper
Ocean Free & Ocean Freedom
Reviews for Michaelmas Reef
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Michaelmas Reef
Michaelmas Reef Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Michaelmas Reef, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-15.65, 145.72) (5km away)
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)
Plan & book
Ways to dive Great Barrier Reef, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Great Barrier ReefPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Great Barrier Reef.
Search stays in Great Barrier ReefDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near Michaelmas Reef
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.