Great Barrier Reef, Australia

    Ribbon Number Nine Reef

    Best months: Feb–Mar

    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.

    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

    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.

    Today05:5418:1612h 22m daylightGolden hour 17:47

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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)

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    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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