Geoffrey Bay on Magnetic Island's eastern coast is home to the historic SS Moltke, a steamship that sank in 1911 after striking a reef. The wreck now lies in shallow water just metres from shore, making it one of Australia's most accessible shipwreck snorkels. At low tide, the boiler and hull fragments break the surface, while the surrounding sandy seabed and scattered wreckage host a vibrant mix of reef fish, rays, and turtles. The site offers a rare blend of maritime history and easy shore-entry snorkeling in the calm, sheltered waters of the bay.
Geoffrey Bay - The Moltke Shipwreck
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Wave Height 0.2 mSwell Period 3.2 sWind Speed 8.3 knPrecipitation 1.1 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Shallow wreck debris
The wreck is very shallow and parts of the boiler and hull can be exposed at low tide, posing a risk of cuts or scrapes for swimmers who get too close.
Low risk: Boat traffic
Marine traffic including ferries and private boats transit through the bay; snorkelers should stay aware of vessels.
Low risk: Outgoing tide current
Outgoing tide can create a gentle current running out of the bay, potentially pulling inexperienced swimmers away from the wreck area.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Geoffrey Bay is on the eastern side of Magnetic Island, about 20 minutes by ferry from Townsville. From the Arcadia ferry terminal, follow the coastal path south along the foreshore to the bay. The Moltke shipwreck is visible from the shore at low tide, lying just offshore near the rocks at the southern end of the beach.
Parking & facilities
Limited street parking available near Geoffrey Bay beach in Arcadia.
parkingtoilets
No fee for snorkeling; ferry fare from Townsville applies.
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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