Mermaid Reef is the northernmost and youngest atoll of the Rowley Shoals, lying approximately 280 km north-west of Broome, Western Australia. This pristine coral enclave features a massive lagoon enclosed by vibrant reef flats, plunging vertical drop-offs into the deep Indian Ocean, and some of the most biodiverse waters on the Australian continental shelf. With over 214 coral species and 530 fish species, Mermaid Reef offers world-class snorkelling through crystalline lagoons, drift channels carved by powerful tides, and coral gardens teeming with marine life. No dry land exists here — only the submerged atoll, making it a truly immersive underwater wilderness reached exclusively by extended liveaboard cruises.
Mermaid Reef
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Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 3.0 sWind Speed 3.8 knPrecipitation 0.1 mmTidal Phase flood
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DANGER: Explicit Risks Present
Mermaid Reef has hazards marked as danger. Entering the water here means you may face serious risks to your personal safety.
- Remote location danger
Mermaid Reef is 280 km from Broome with no emergency services on site. Medical evacuation is extremely difficult and time-consuming.
The spot
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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High risk: Remote location
Mermaid Reef is 280 km from Broome with no emergency services on site. Medical evacuation is extremely difficult and time-consuming.
Moderate risk: Strong tidal currents
The Rowley Shoals experience powerful tidal movement that creates strong channel currents, especially during tide changes. Drift snorkelling is common but requires awareness.
Low risk: Exposed ocean swells
The atoll sits on the edge of the continental shelf with sheer drop-offs, meaning ocean swells can affect conditions around the outer reef.
Low risk: Marine stingers
Box jellyfish and other marine stingers may be present in tropical WA waters, particularly during the warmer months (Oct-May).
Low risk: Coral cuts and abrasions
Shallow reef flats and coral bommies pose a risk of cuts. Wearing protective footwear and exposure suits is recommended.
Wildlife Guide
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Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Mermaid Reef is located approximately 280 km north-west of Broome, Western Australia. Access is exclusively by liveaboard cruise vessel departing from Broome. The voyage takes roughly 12 hours overnight. There are no day trips, air access, or independent travel options available.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at the Broome departure port for cruise guests. Arrangements should be made with the specific charter operator.
toilets
Multi-day liveaboard cruises from Broome from ~$8,995pp. Includes meals, accommodation, and guided snorkelling. Moorings bookable via WA Parks and Wildlife.
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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