Great Barrier Reef, Australia
    Princess Charlotte Bay

    Olive Patch

    Best months: Feb–Mar

    Protected Area

    Princess Charlotte Bay

    Why dive here

    With 154+ marine species recorded in the area - including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, tiger sharks and napoleon wrasse - Olive Patch 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
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    Olive Patch offers a gentle introduction to the Great Barrier Reef's coral habitats. You'll find extensive patches of hard corals here, providing shelter for various reef fish. It’s a good spot for newer divers looking for relaxed conditions and a chance to observe the reef's foundational elements without strong currents. Expect a calm dive focusing on the smaller, intricate details of the coral ecosystem.

    Safety Notes

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

    Today06:0118:2212h 21m daylightGolden hour 17:54

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Olive Patch

    Olive Patch Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Olive Patch, 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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