Great Barrier Reef, Australia
    Mitirinchi Island

    Southern Small Detached Reef

    Best months: Feb–Mar

    Protected Area

    Mitirinchi Island

    Why dive here

    With 154+ marine species recorded in the area - including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, tiger sharks and napoleon wrasse - Southern Small Detached 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

    Southern Small Detached Reef offers a good cross-section of typical Great Barrier Reef coral. You'll find plenty of hard corals, with a scattering of colourful soft varieties, and the usual reef fish patrolling the bommies. It’s a solid dive for those looking for a predictable GBR experience without strong currents or deep profiles. We'd suggest it for divers who enjoy relaxed, easy drifts over healthy coral.

    Safety Notes

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

    Today06:0318:2212h 19m daylightGolden hour 17:53

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Southern Small Detached Reef

    Southern Small Detached Reef Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Southern Small Detached Reef, 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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