

HMS Pandora sits on the seafloor off Queensland as one of Australia's most historically significant wrecks, a Royal Navy vessel that sank in 1791 while returning Bounty mutineers to England. The wreck rests at 30 to 33 metres, placing this firmly in deep diving territory and demanding solid buoyancy control and dive planning. Visibility ranges from 10 to 30 metres depending on conditions, and strong currents run regularly across the site. The wreck itself has become an established artificial reef, with corals and invertebrates colonising the structure alongside reef fish and the occasional reef shark and sea turtle. Plan your bottom time carefully.
-11.37380, 143.98360
Strong currents mean timing your dive around slack water makes a genuine difference to both safety and how much of the wreck you can actually explore. Check current conditions locally before heading out, as they can shift considerably.
Access info coming soon
This is a deep wreck dive, so monitor your air closely. Strong currents can occur, so maintain good buoyancy control and be prepared to deploy your SMB. Watch out for sharp edges on the wreck and coral.
Depth
30-33m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
20-23°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
40 min
Yes, HMS Pandora in Queensland is a boat-access-only dive site. You will need to book with a local dive operator or charter a boat to reach it.
HMS Pandora in Queensland is best suited for divers with some experience. You should be comfortable with your buoyancy and have logged at least 10 to 20 dives.
Diving at HMS Pandora in Queensland requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at HMS Pandora in Queensland. Water temperatures range from 20°C to 23°C.
HMS Pandora in Queensland is home to Corals, Reef Sharks, Reef Shark, Invertebrates, Reef Fish, and Sea Turtle. Marine life sightings vary by season and conditions.
HMS Pandora in Queensland has depths ranging from 30 metres to 33 metres.
A typical dive at HMS Pandora in Queensland lasts approximately 40 minutes. Actual dive time depends on depth, air consumption, and conditions.
HMS Pandora in Queensland can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at HMS Pandora in Queensland typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.