Moore Reef, Queensland, Australia

About Moore Reef

  • Moore Reef Location  Latitude: 16.880134, Longitude: 146.214971
  • Depth Range 1-25 metres
  • Visibility: Up to 20 metres.
  • Access Boat or helicopter
  • Rating: Novice to advanced.
  • Size: 2650 hectares

Explore Moore Reef: A Snorkeling and Diving Paradise

Moore Reef, located about 40 kilometres off the coast of Cairns, is one of the most popular and vibrant spots on the Great Barrier Reef. Moore Reef offers something for everyone with its crystal clear waters, diverse marine life, and exciting activities. Whether you’re an avid diver, a snorkelling enthusiast, or simply looking for a family friendly day out, Moore Reef promises a wonderful adventure.

Snorkelling

Moore Reef is a snorkeler’s dream, with its shallow coral gardens teeming with life just beneath the surface. The clear, warm waters provide excellent visibility, making spotting colourful fish, vibrant corals, and playful sea turtles easy. Snorkelers of all skill levels can enjoy exploring this underwater wonderland, and guided tours are available to help you make the most of your time in the water. Swimming alongside turtles, clownfish, and even rays is common, making every snorkel a new and exciting experience.

Scuba Diving

For scuba divers, Moore Reef offers even more opportunities to explore the depths of the Great Barrier Reef. With several dive sites featuring dramatic drop-offs, coral walls, and swim throughs, divers can experience the reef’s full beauty up close. Home to a diverse range of marine life, including reef sharks, rays, and schools of tropical fish. The reef’s vibrant coral formations and clear waters make it a perfect destination for divers of all levels, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver looking for a new challenge.

Family-Friendly Fun

Moore Reef is not just for snorkelers and divers – it’s also a fantastic destination for families. Many tours to Moore Reef include access to reef pontoons, where you can enjoy activities like glass-bottom boat rides, semi submersible tours, and even waterslides. These tours are great for kids and adults, allowing you to see the reef’s beauty without getting wet. Plus, the pontoons often feature underwater observatories so that you can get a close up view of the marine life from the comfort of the deck.

Marine Life at Moore Reef

One of the biggest draws of Moore Reef is its rich marine biodiversity. From vibrant corals to a wide variety of fish species, Moore Reef offers endless opportunities for marine life encounters. You’ll likely spot sea turtles, clownfish, parrotfish, and even reef sharks as you explore the reef’s many nooks and crannies. The reef’s shallow waters make it easy to observe the marine life up close, and the calm conditions ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Moore Reef Map

Choose your Great Barrier Reef Tour

Moore Reef Cairns Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Where is Moore Reef located?
Moore Reef is part of the stunning Great Barrier Reef, located about 40 kilometres off the coast of Cairns. It’s a popular destination for snorkelling, diving, and Reef tours, offering clear waters, vibrant coral, and diverse marine life.

How can I get to Moore Reef from Cairns?
By joining a guided reef tour. These tours typically depart from Cairns and include a comfortable boat ride, taking about 90 minutes to reach the reef. You can choose from various tours, including half day, full day, and liveaboard options.

What activities can I do at Moore Reef?
Enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat tours to explore the incredible coral formations and marine life. Many tours also offer underwater observatories, semi-submersible boats, and even waterslides from the reef pontoons, making it a fun destination for families and adventurers.

Do I need any experience snorkelling or diving at Moore Reef?
Not at all! Most tours cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced divers. If you’re new to snorkelling or diving, helpful guides will provide instructions and equipment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

What marine life will I see at Moore Reef?
This reef is home to a dazzling array of marine life, including vibrant corals, colourful fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional reef shark. You might also spot giant clams, rays, and other fascinating creatures that call the Great Barrier Reef home.

What should I bring on my Moore Reef tour?
Be sure to pack swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. If you plan on taking photos, a waterproof camera is a great idea. Most tours provide all necessary snorkel or dive gear, you can also bring your own if preferred.

Are Moore Reef tours suitable for families?
Yes! Most Reef tours are designed with families in mind, offering shallow snorkelling areas, supervised activities, and safe, kid-friendly amenities. The pontoons even have waterslides and touch tanks, making it a fun day for children.

What is the best time to visit Moore Reef?
This reef can be visited year-round, but the best time for clear waters and calm seas is between May and November. During this period, the weather is mild, and visibility underwater is often at its best, making it perfect for snorkelling and diving.

Can I see the reef without getting wet?
Absolutely! If you prefer to stay dry, glass-bottom boat tours and semi-submersible boats allow you to view the reef’s beauty from the comfort of your seat. You can also enjoy the underwater observatory for an up-close look at marine life without entering the water.

Are food and drinks included in the tours?
Most full-day tours include lunch, tea, and coffee throughout the day. Check with your chosen tour operator for specific details, as some tours offer additional snacks and beverages.

Discover Nearby Reefs

Learn about the Great Barrier Reef

Where is the Great Barrier Reef?

Discover the Coral Reef

What lives on the Great Barrier Reef?