Pelorus Island (also known as North Palm Island or Yanooa Island) is an uninhabited 400-hectare wilderness island ringed by spectacular fringing reefs that step straight off the beach into the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Located 800 metres north of Orpheus Island in the Palm Islands group, this remote paradise offers snorkelers direct access to vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life — all within a few strokes from shore. With no roads, no shops, and no facilities, it's a pristine, untouched escape accessible only by private boat or tour, offering true wilderness snorkeling at its finest.
Pelorus Island (surrounding reefs)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 2.9 sWind Speed 1.3 knPrecipitation 2.1 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Tidal currents
Strong tidal currents can sweep through the channels between the Palm Islands, especially during spring tides. Drift snorkeling is common here.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers
Marine stingers (box jellyfish) are present in the warm tropical waters. A stinger suit is recommended year-round, essential November to May.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers (box jellyfish, Irukandji)
Stinger season in North Queensland brings marine stingers (box jellyfish and Irukandji) to inshore waters including the fringing reefs around Pelorus Island.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers (seasonal)
Marine stingers (box jellyfish and Irukandji) are prevalent in North Queensland waters during the warmer months.
Moderate risk: Remote location — no facilities
The island is remote with no fresh water, no medical facilities, and no phone reception. A medical emergency would require evacuation by boat or helicopter.
Low risk: Wind and swell exposure
Exposed to prevailing winds and open ocean swells, conditions can change rapidly making the crossing and reef edges hazardous.
Low risk: Sharp coral and rock
Coral and rocky reef edges with sharp limestone can cause cuts and abrasions. Sturdy reef shoes or fins recommended.
Low risk: Tidal currents in surrounding channels
The channel between Dungeness Creek and Pelorus Island can experience strong tidal flows. Drift diving is common at the Pelorus Island Express site.
Low risk: Overhead power lines at boat ramp
Overhead power lines cross the Dungeness boat ramp and car park area, posing a risk for boats with tall masts or antennae.
Low risk: Tidal currents in channels
Tidal currents can run strongly through the channels between Pelorus and Orpheus Islands, especially during spring tides. Snorkelers should be aware of changing tide conditions.
Low risk: Boat traffic near shore
Boat traffic in the area, particularly tour vessels and private boats accessing the island, requires vigilance when snorkeling near anchorages.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Launch from the Dungeness boat ramp in Lucinda (1.5 hrs north of Townsville). Follow the channel buoys out past the long Lucinda jetty, heading toward Pelorus Island which lies ~800 m north of Orpheus Island. The island is also accessible via private helicopter charter from Townsville or via Coral Princess Cruises Great Barrier Reef safari tours.
Parking & facilities
Parking at the Dungeness boat ramp is available but can fill up on popular days; overflow parking along the roadside. Overhead power lines at the ramp area are a concern for sailboats with tall masts carrying trailers. The ramp has 4 lanes and a floating pontoon with a deep drop-off marked by a yelI
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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