Moore Reef - Great Barrier Reef

Moore Reef, about 55 kilometres from Cairns, feels like a busy nursery. We’ve finned through countless staghorn thickets here, watching juvenile fish dart for cover among the intricate branches. The rock formations are draped in a mix of hard and soft corals, creating plenty of hidey-holes for the smaller residents. Look for parrotfish and angelfish schooling through the gullies that wind towards the main reef. It’s a gentle spot, usually with mild currents, making it ideal for newer divers or anyone who enjoys a relaxed exploration.

Location
Great Barrier Reef, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-16.850000, 146.183300
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Michaelmas and Upolu Cays

Best Time to Dive in Great Barrier Reef

The warmest water temperatures in Great Barrier Reef occur in February, averaging 29.5°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 25.0°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 29.4°C
  • February: 29.5°C
  • March: 29.2°C
  • April: 28.4°C
  • May: 26.9°C
  • June: 25.8°C
  • July: 25.1°C
  • August: 25.0°C
  • September: 25.4°C
  • October: 26.6°C
  • November: 27.7°C
  • December: 29.0°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Great Barrier Reef

Nearest Dive Centres to Moore Reef

Marine Life in Great Barrier Reef

Home to 163 recorded species including 88 reef fish, 61 hard corals, 9 seagrass & algae, 2 sharks & rays, 1 starfish, 1 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Moore Reef

Based on average water temperature of 27.3°C, currents 17 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 27°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths at Moore Reef?
The typical diving depths at Moore Reef are currently unknown based on the available data. Divers should consult with local dive operators for the most up-to-date information regarding specific dive profiles and site conditions.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Moore Reef?
Divers visiting Moore Reef can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life, including numerous juvenile fish that utilize the reef as a nursery. The underwater landscape is adorned with diverse hard and soft corals, notably extensive staghorn thickets that provide excellent shelter. This rich environment makes it a fantastic spot to observe various marine species.
What is the diving difficulty level at Moore Reef, and is it suitable for beginners?
The diving difficulty level at Moore Reef is classified as intermediate. While it offers a rewarding experience for more experienced divers, it may not be ideally suited for absolute beginners due to this classification. Beginners should consider sites with an "easy" rating or gain more experience before diving here.
When is the best time of year to dive at Moore Reef for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive at Moore Reef for optimal conditions is not available in the current data. For details on seasonal conditions and the best times to visit, we recommend checking our When to Dive section or consulting local dive operators in the Great Barrier Reef area.
What dive certifications are required to scuba dive at Moore Reef?
The specific dive certifications required to scuba dive at Moore Reef are not detailed in the provided information. As it is an intermediate-level site, an Open Water Diver certification is typically a minimum, but it's always best to confirm with your chosen dive operator in the Great Barrier Reef region.
What are the typical water conditions, including visibility and currents, at Moore Reef?
Details regarding the typical water conditions, including visibility and currents, at Moore Reef are not provided in the current data. Water conditions can vary greatly, so it's advisable to check with local dive centers in the Great Barrier Reef for the most current reports before planning your dive.