10-25m
    Great Barrier Reef, Australia
    Michaelmas and Upolu Cays

    Milln Reef - The Whale

    Best months: Feb–Mar

    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 - Milln Reef - The Whale offers some of Great Barrier Reef's richest cave 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
    CharacterCave dive · max 10-25m
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    Milln Reef's "The Whale" is one of those sites we always try to hit when we're out from Cairns. It's not about huge drop-offs or tricky currents here, it's about pure, unadulterated reef immersion. We love drifting through the shallow coral gardens, particularly on a sunny afternoon when the light just punches through the water. You'll often find yourself surrounded by so many beautiful fusiliers that they practically blot out the sun for a second. Our favourite spots are the little bommies dotted around, each a miniature world. We've spent ages just watching the cheeky little Johnston Island Damsels darting amongst the coral or admiring the vibrant Coral Beauties. Keep an eye out for the Bullethead Parrotfish, too; they're always busy munching away. While it’s pretty straightforward diving, the sheer density of reef life makes it a standout. It's a perfect spot for photographers or anyone who just wants to really soak in the reef.

    Typical Milln Reef - The Whale Dive Profile

    5m10mSafety Stop0m10m 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

    Overhead environment - never enter without proper cave/cavern training, redundant equipment, and a guideline.

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

    Today05:5118:1412h 24m daylightGolden hour 17:46

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Milln Reef - The Whale

    Milln Reef - The Whale Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Milln Reef - The Whale, 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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