

Mermaid Reef sits in one of Australia's most remote diving locations, roughly 300 kilometres off the Kimberley coast. This offshore reef system drops from shallow coral gardens at 1 metre down vertical walls to 40 metres, creating drift diving conditions that attract serious pelagic action. Strong currents are the norm here, which means you'll need solid buoyancy control and drift diving experience before jumping in. The current brings the crowds. Potato cod cruise the walls, often approaching within touching distance, while maori wrasse patrol the deeper sections. Dogtooth tuna flash past in the blue, and sharks are regular visitors. During migration season, humpback whales pass through the area, and manta rays glide along the reef edge. Sailfish occasionally make appearances in the deeper water. The reef itself hosts green turtles, giant clams wedged into coral formations, and gorgonian fans that bend with the current. Visibility ranges from zero to 60 metres depending on conditions and current strength. The deep wall and strong flow make this a genuine intermediate to advanced site. Most diving here involves live-aboard operations, as the reef's isolation means no shore access or day trip options.
-17.10000, 119.60000
Book onto a live-aboard that runs extended Rowley Shoals itineraries, as Mermaid Reef requires serious travel time to reach. Time your trip for humpback whale season (July to October) if you want the chance of whale encounters alongside the reef diving.
Access is exclusively via multi-day liveaboard charter boats departing from Broome. The journey to the Rowley Shoals takes approximately 12 hours.
The primary hazard is the strong tidal current. The remote offshore location requires trips to be fully self-sufficient. Various shark species are present, including reef sharks, hammerheads, and tiger sharks.
Depth
1-80m
Visibility
0-60m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-31°C
Current
Strong
Yes, Mermaid Reef in Islands is a boat-access-only dive site. You will need to book with a local dive operator or charter a boat to reach it.
Mermaid Reef in Islands 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 Mermaid Reef in Islands requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Mermaid Reef in Islands. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 31°C.
Mermaid Reef in Islands is home to potato cod, maori wrasse, sailfish, humpback whales, manta rays, and green turtles. Marine life sightings vary by season and conditions.
Mermaid Reef in Islands has depths ranging from 1 metres to 80 metres.
Mermaid Reef in Islands offers snorkelling with a rating of 1 out of 5. Shallow areas start from 1 metres, making it accessible for snorkellers.
Mermaid Reef in Islands can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at Mermaid Reef in Islands can reach up to 60 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.