Explore Cape Tribulation
Cape Tribulation is the only place in the world where two World Heritage zones meet. Skirting the beach, Daintree rainforest slopes to join the waters of the Great Barrier Marine Park, where the fringing reefs nearly meet the seashore. Plunge into the northern frontier of the Great Barrier Reef to explore thriving reef systems alive with sea turtles, eagle rays, and a myriad of tropical fish.
The area is still very remote with no dive centres. Scuba diving in Cape Tribulation takes place during boat day trips from its eco-resorts as well as some boat operators at Port Douglas. Departing from Cairns, liveaboards explore Cape Tribulation’s reefs and rainforest.
Top Cape Tribulation Dive Sites
1. Mackay Reef – Coral Garden
A vibrant 10-metre-deep coral garden with narrow canyons sheltering batfish, trumpetfish, and anemonefish. Adventure level is easy, suitable for scuba diving. Ideal for relaxed exploration in a scenic and biodiverse setting just off the Daintree coast.
2. Mackay Wall
This wall dive drops to over 30 metres and may feature steady currents. It’s ideal for advanced scuba divers. Divers can encounter red and orange gorgonian sea fans, large groupers, and schools of tropical fish in a colorful and dramatic vertical seascape.
3. Undine Reef
A shallow, sandy-bottom site perfect for both scuba and freediving. Stingrays glide across the reef flats, occasionally pausing to forage in the sand. The site offers calm conditions and beautiful reef scenery, suited to all experience levels.
4. St. Crispin Outer Edge
Best for intermediate to advanced scuba divers, this remote reef edge boasts excellent visibility and a variety of pelagic species. Look out for barracuda, reef sharks, and parrotfish near dramatic coral formations. Part of a protected marine zone.
5. Cape Kimberley Inshore Reef
This lesser-known, shallow site is perfect for beginners and suitable for both scuba and freediving . Expect seagrass beds and coral rubble zones teeming with juveniles, pipefish, and nudibranchs—ideal for macro photography and off-the-beaten-path exploring.