The wreck of the Aquarian (often called the Aquarius wreck) lies in about 14 metres of water off South Stradbroke Island within the Moreton Bay Marine Park. This artificial reef sits on a sandy bottom and has become encrusted with soft corals and sponges, attracting schools of reef fish, rays, wobbegong sharks and an array of marine life. Accessible only by boat, it offers a sheltered and shallow dive/snorkel experience ideal for intermediate-level visitors wanting to explore a genuine shipwreck turned vibrant habitat just north of the Gold Coast Seaway.
Aquarius (Gold Coast wreck)
IntermediateGO
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.4 mSwell Period 6.3 sWind Speed 5.7 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
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Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Boat traffic
The wreck lies in a navigable channel used by pleasure craft and fishing boats. Snorkelers must stay aware of surface vessels.
Low risk: Strong tidal currents
Tidal flows through the Moreton Bay Marine Park and South Stradbroke Island area can produce moderate currents, especially during spring tides.
Low risk: Restricted visibility
After rain or wind, visibility can drop below 5m. Best conditions occur during calm winter/spring months.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Access is by boat only, launching from the Gold Coast Seaway at Southport or from Runaway Bay Marina. The wreck of the Aquarian sits off the eastern side of South Stradbroke Island, approximately 15–20 minutes by boat from the seaway. Several Gold Coast dive charter operators run trips to this site regularly.
Parking & facilities
Parking is available at the Gold Coast Seaway carpark (Marine Parade, Southport) or at Hollywell boat ramp. Both have limited free and paid spaces.
parkingtoilets
Charter trips typically start around AUD $69–$165 per person depending on the operator and whether snorkel or scuba gear is included.
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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