

Chicken Reef combines a wall and reef structure in one accessible dive, though the depth range of 15 to 50 metres means beginners should stay on the shallower sections of the reef rather than following the wall down. Visibility runs from 10 to 30 metres, which makes reading the terrain straightforward. Mild current keeps things manageable. Hard and soft corals cover the structure, and the fish life is genuinely varied: turtles, trevally, barracuda, Maori wrasse, and giant grouper are all regular sights. Reef sharks and eagle rays appear less predictably, and sea snakes are worth keeping an eye out for. Stay aware of boat traffic throughout your dive.
-18.64904, 147.72063
The best months run from May through October when conditions tend to be most settled and visibility is at its clearest. As a boat entry site, confirm current departure times and any facility availability with your operator before you travel.
The site is an offshore reef and is accessed via boat charters from Townsville. Operators like Adrenalin Snorkel & Dive and Conquest Charters have been noted to visit the reef.
The reef has experienced outbreaks of Crown-of-Thorns Starfish (COTS) in the past. Jellyfish season in the region is generally from November to May.
Depth
15-50m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Current
Mild
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Yes, Chicken Reef in Townsville is a boat-access-only dive site. You will need to book with a local dive operator or charter a boat to reach it.
Chicken Reef in Townsville is well-suited for beginner divers and snorkellers. Conditions are typically calm with easy entry and shallow depths.
Diving at Chicken Reef in Townsville requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Chicken Reef in Townsville is home to hard_corals, soft_corals, reef_sharks, turtles, barracuda, and trevally. Marine life sightings vary by season and conditions.
The best months to visit Chicken Reef in Townsville are May, June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Chicken Reef in Townsville has depths ranging from 15 metres to 50 metres.
Chicken Reef in Townsville typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Chicken Reef in Townsville typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.