Phil's Backside is a prized drift dive and snorkel site on the northern edge of Agincourt Reef No. 1, part of the outer ribbon reef system off Port Douglas. This exposed outer-reef location is swept by Coral Sea currents that bring crystalline visibility (often 20–30 m) and nutrient-rich upwellings, fuelling dense coral gardens of boulder, staghorn, and plate corals. Snorkelers drift over dramatic drop-offs, gutters, and caves where schooling red bass, fusiliers, and sweetlips gather, while grey reef sharks and turtles patrol the current. As one of the most pristine and accessible outer-reef sites on the Great Barrier Reef, Phil's Backside offers a true blue-water snorkeling experience far from coastal sediment.
Agincourt Reef (Phil's Backside)
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Wave Height 0.2 mSwell Period 6.7 sWind Speed 8.1 knPrecipitation 3.8 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
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Moderate risk: Strong tidal currents
Strong tidal flows sweep across the outer ribbon reef edge, particularly on incoming tides. Drift snorkeling is common and requires good fitness and comfort in current.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers (jellyfish)
Marine stingers (including Irukandji and box jellyfish) are present in Queensland waters. Stinger suits are provided by tour operators and are strongly recommended during this period.
Low risk: Open ocean swell
The site is exposed to the open Coral Sea and can experience sudden southeasterly wind swells, making conditions choppy.
Low risk: Titan triggerfish aggression
During breeding season (typically September–December), titan triggerfish may aggressively defend nests in the sandy bottom areas.
Low risk: Sharp coral / shallow bommies
The reef has shallow coral bommies and gutters that can cause minor scrapes. Snorkelers should maintain buoyancy awareness.
Low risk: Marine stingers (box jellyfish)
Marine stingers (box jellyfish) may be present during the warmer months (November to May). Stinger suits are recommended.
Low risk: Tidal currents
Strong tidal currents can sweep along the outer edge of the ribbon reef, particularly near the drop-off to the continental shelf. Snorkelers must stay within marked swimming areas.
Low risk: Severe sun exposure
Tropical sun exposure is intense year-round, with high UV index. Reflected glare off the water increases burn risk. Wear reef-safe sunscreen, a rash guard, and stay hydrated.
Wildlife Guide
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Gallery
4 photos from the community
Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Agincourt Reef is located approximately 75 km (90 min by boat) northeast of Port Douglas, Queensland. Day trips depart from Port Douglas Marina aboard high-speed catamarans operated by Quicksilver, Poseidon, and other operators. Access is exclusively via organised snorkel tours — no private shore access.
Parking & facilities
Paid parking available at Port Douglas Marina and nearby public car parks. Arrive early for best availability.
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Day tours range from approximately AUD $200–$300 per adult, including snorkel equipment, reef tax, and lunch. Book through operators such as Quicksilver, Poseidon, or Barrier Reef Australia.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports