Passage Rocks sits in a deep north-south channel off the northern side of Great Keppel Island, offering some of the Southern Great Barrier Reef's richest snorkelling. The rocky outcrops create a mosaic of habitats — ledges, crevices, and coral gardens — that support more hard coral species than any other site in the Keppel Islands. Feather stars dance in the current while colourful reef fish flit among the formations. The current-swept channel keeps the water clear and brings in nutrients, making this a biodiversity hotspot. Favoured by kayakers and boat-based snorkellers alike, Passage Rocks delivers a wild, off-the-beaten-path reef experience.
Passage Rocks
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Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 3.3 sWind Speed 1.0 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Channel currents
Passage Rocks lies in a deep north-south channel where tidal flows can create strong currents, especially during incoming and outgoing tides. Snorkellers should be confident swimmers and check tide times before entering.
Moderate risk: Boat traffic
The site is in a navigable channel used by boats and kayakers accessing the northern side of Great Keppel Island. Boat traffic can be a hazard, especially when snorkelling at the surface.
Low risk: Sharp coral & rocks
The rocky outcrops and hard coral formations are sharp and abrasive. Snorkellers should wear a rash guard or wetsuit and avoid standing on or touching the coral to prevent injury and protect the reef.
Low risk: Deep water
The site is in a deep channel with no shallow sandy entry. Snorkellers will be in deeper water immediately upon entering, requiring good buoyancy control and confidence in open water.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Passage Rocks is located in a deep north-south channel on the northern side of Great Keppel Island, in the Keppel Bay Islands. Access is via private boat, water taxi, or commercial snorkel charter from Yeppoon (30-minute ferry crossing to Great Keppel Island). From the island itself, you'll need a boat or kayak to reach the rocks.
Parking & facilities
Free long-term parking and secure paid parking available at the Keppel Bay Marina in Yeppoon, where ferries and charters depart from Rosslyn Bay Harbour. Drive to Rosslyn Bay, about 25 km east of Rockhampton, QLD, and park at the marina lots before catching a boat or tour to the site. On Great Keppl
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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