Fitzroy Reef Snorkeling

Fitzroy Reef is the largest reef in the Bunker Group of the Southern Great Barrier Reef — a 3,650-hectare drying closed ring reef with a deep (6–10 m) sheltered lagoon entered via two narrow natural channels. The expansive reef structure blocks prevailing swell and wind, creating calm, crystal-clear conditions ideal for snorkelling. Inside the lagoon, snorkellers explore coral bommies with dense hard coral cover, branching coral gardens, and sandy patches. The reef flat and lagoon are important feeding grounds for green, hawksbill, and loggerhead turtles, while the upper reef slopes teem with colourful reef fish, giant clams, and fusiliers. No sandy cay exists, but a temporary sand body appears at low tide on the south-western end. This is a prime snorkel and glass-bottom boat site, accessed only by guided tours from the Town of 1770.