Michaelmas Cay: A Gem of the Great Barrier Reef

Michaelmas Cay

  • Located 40km northeast of Cairns, Michaelmas Cay is a beautiful sandy island surrounded by the stunning Great Barrier Reef.

  • One of the largest seabird nesting sites in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, home to thousands of seabirds, including noddies and terns.

  • Crystal-clear, shallow waters make it perfect for snorkelling, especially for beginners and families.

  • Vibrant coral gardens and marine life right off the beach, including colourful fish, giant clams, and the chance to spot sea turtles.

  • Soft white sands are ideal for relaxing, picnicking, or enjoying the tropical island vibes.

  • It is protected as part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, ensuring its pristine condition and rich biodiversity.

  • Accessible via full-day reef tours from Cairns, often including snorkelling equipment, guided tours, and a chance to learn about the reef’s ecosystem.

Discover Michaelmas Cay

  • Location: Latitude  16°34’56.2″S Longitude 146°01’09.1″E
  • Depth: 0-20 metres
  • Visibility 10 to 15 metres
  • Access: Boat
  • Size 1.8 hectares
  • The site is limited to 50 passengers on the cay at any time.

Welcome to Michaelmas Cay, a beautiful jewel in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. This picturesque cay is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, beach lovers, and snorkelling aficionados. Let’s dive into what makes Michaelmas Cay a unique and unforgettable experience.

A beautiful coral cay surrounded by a magnificent reef is approximately 40 kilometres off the coast of Cairns. This remarkable natural wonder is nestled within the boundaries of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Michaelmas Cay Features

One of its distinctive features is its commitment to preserving its pristine environment. To maintain the ecological balance and ensure a serene experience, only 50 visitors are allowed on the cay anytime. This approach allows you to connect with nature more intimately and sustainably.

This cay is part of a trio of neighbouring coral sand cays near the Outer Reef, making it a hotspot for marine biodiversity. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or an eager beginner, Michaelmas Cay offers excellent opportunities to explore the underwater world. The crystal-clear waters teem with vibrant reef fish, creating a visual spectacle that captivates visitors of all levels of expertise.

This site boasts fourteen dive sites for those looking to take their underwater adventures to the next level. Whether you are interested in vibrant coral gardens, intriguing underwater caves, or encounters with mesmerising marine life, a dive site caters to your preferences.

One key advantage is its suitability for anchorage during adverse weather conditions. This ensures the safety and comfort of visitors and allows them to enjoy the cay and its surrounding reef in various weather conditions.

Natural Beauty Beyond Compare

This is a pristine, uninhabited sand island surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. The cay spans just 1.5 hectares, ensuring visitors’ intimate and secluded escape. As part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, it boasts an incredible array of marine life and seabirds.

Marine Life

This reef location has an abundance of green sea turtles and giant clams. Scuba divers and snorkelers can also see brightly coloured tropical reef fish and sharks.

Snorkeling Paradise

One of the highlights of Michaelmas Cay is its exceptional snorkeling opportunities. Dive into the vibrant underwater world and discover a kaleidoscope of coral formations, home to an amazing variety of fish and marine creatures. Snorkelers can get up close and personal with friendly turtles and colourful clownfish, creating fantastic memories.

Scuba Diving

Along the reef wall are swim-throughs, small caves and gullies.  The shallows offer perfect snorkelling over shallow coral reefs.  The bommies provide divers with plenty of interesting marine life, including batfish and crayfish.

Next, scuba divers should watch for eagle and cow tail rays at this location.

Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Michaelmas Cay is famous for its aquatic wonders and birdlife. It is a vital breeding site for thousands of seabirds, including majestic Sand Terns and Tufted Terns. The sight and sound of these remarkable avian residents will enthral birdwatchers.

Michaelmas Cay is an important bird nesting and roosting ground that provides a sanctuary to twenty-four species of sea birds. Twenty-seven thousand migratory birds visit this sand cay. The middle of the sand cay has vegetation that covers an area of 1.5 hectares of the island.  As many as 30,000 birds can be present at any one time.

Sooty Terns and Crested Terns have an important rookery on Michaelmas Cay.

Exploring the Cay

Visitors can stroll along the soft, sandy shores of Michaelmas Cay, feeling the powdery sand beneath their toes. The cay is a protected sanctuary, ensuring the preservation of its pristine environment. Guided tours are available to provide informative insights into the Cay’s unique ecosystem.

Partnership with the Best Operators

To make the most of your Michaelmas Cay experience, we partner with reputable tour operators dedicated to providing exceptional services. Our partners offer guided snorkelling tours, birdwatching excursions, and eco-friendly practices to protect this delicate environment.

How to Get There

Reaching Michaelmas Cay is easy. All tours depart from Cairns, and the journey to the Cay is a scenic boat ride through the breathtaking waters of the Great Barrier Reef.

Plan Your Visit

When planning your visit to Michaelmas Cay, consider the best time of year for your interests. Whether you’re eager to snorkel with colourful fish or witness the birdlife in full swing, there’s something for everyone.

Michaelmas Cay Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

What is Michaelmas Cay?
It is a picturesque sand island located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. It’s renowned for its pristine natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and important bird breeding grounds.

How can I get to Michaelmas Cay?
Most visitors reach Michaelmas Cay by booking Cairns or Port Douglas guided tours. These tours typically include a scenic boat ride through the Great Barrier Reef to reach the cay.

What can I do at Michaelmas Cay?
 A range of activities, including snorkelling in the beautiful coral gardens, birdwatching to witness the incredible seabird population, guided nature walks to explore the cay, and simply relaxing on the sandy shores.

Is it safe to snorkel at Michaelmas Cay?
Yes, snorkeling at Michaelmas Cay is generally safe for all levels of experience. The cay’s protected waters provide an excellent environment for exploring diverse marine life. However, always follow the guidance of your tour operator for safety.

When is the best time to visit Michaelmas Cay?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. If you’re keen on snorkelling and observing marine life, consider visiting during the dry season (April to November). The seabird nesting season (October to January) is ideal for birdwatching.

Michaelmas Cay Map

Conclusion

Michaelmas Cay is a testament to the natural wonders of Australia. With its vibrant marine life, incredible bird population, and pristine environment, it’s a destination that truly showcases the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. We invite you to explore this hidden gem and create lifelong memories.

At GreatBarrierReefTours.com, we are committed to helping you discover the best of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

Start planning your trip today and immerse yourself in the magic of the Great Barrier Reef.

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