Ribbon Number Nine Reef
Why dive here
With 154+ marine species recorded in the area - including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, tiger sharks and napoleon wrasse - Ribbon Number Nine Reef offers some of Great Barrier Reef's richest reef diving. Water ranges 24-30°C, warmest January, February, March.
Ribbon Number Nine Reef is one of those spots that often gets overlooked for its flashier neighbours, but we think that's a mistake. It’s not just about the big pelagics here, though you might get lucky with a marlin cruising by. We find its real charm lies in the sheer density of coral, particularly the staghorn. Picture swimming through these delicate, branching structures; the light filters down through them, creating an almost cathedral-like feel. We love dropping in on the northern side, especially if there's a gentle current, letting it carry us along the reef wall. Keep an eye out for the smaller inhabitants here. The Scarlet Soldierfish are always a standout, schooling in the shady pockets. And if you take your time, you'll spot the Bugeye Dottybacks darting between the honeycomb coral. It’s a great dive for anyone who appreciates a vibrant, healthy reef system and enjoys a relaxed drift, allowing the scenery to unfold. It’s not a deep dive by any stretch, making it perfect for longer bottom times.
Safety Notes
Strong currents typical this month (avg 30 cm/s). Good buoyancy control essential.
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Ribbon Number Nine Reef
Ribbon Number Nine Reef Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Ribbon Number Nine 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)
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