Fifteen scuttled ships deliberately sunk in the 1960s to create a sheltered harbour for small vessels now form one of Queensland's most iconic snorkel destinations. Lying just offshore from the Tangalooma Island Resort on the western side of Moreton Island, the wrecks have transformed into an artificial reef teeming with marine life. The rusted hulls, encrusted with colourful soft corals and sponges, sit in crystal-clear sandy-bottomed shallows, offering easy access for snorkelers of all abilities. Turtles, rays, and schools of tropical fish weave through the skeletal superstructures, while the calm, protected waters make this a beloved site for beginners and families.
Tangalooma Wrecks
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Wave Height 0.2 mSwell Period 4.5 sWind Speed 2.8 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Marine stingers (jellyfish)
Box jellyfish and Irukandji may be present in warmer months, particularly November to May. Wear a stinger suit.
Moderate risk: Sharp metal and marine growth
Wrecks have sharp, protruding metal edges, fishing line, and encrusted marine growth that can cause cuts and abrasions. Wear protective footwear and avoid touching the structures.
Low risk: Boat traffic
The wrecks area is used by resort ferries, water taxis, and recreational vessels. Stay aware of boat lanes and surface traffic.
Low risk: Sharp metal / rusted wreck edges
The submerged wrecks have rusted metal protrusions, sharp edges, and exposed bolts that can cause cuts. Wear reef shoes and avoid touching.
Low risk: Strong tidal flow
Tidal currents can pick up around the wrecks, especially on an outgoing tide. Snorkel at slack tide for safest conditions.
Low risk: Tidal currents
Strong tidal flows can develop between the wrecks and along the shoreline, particularly on outgoing tides. Snorkelers should be aware of currents that may push them away from the beach.
Low risk: Marine stingers
Marine stingers (box jellyfish and Irukandji) are present in Moreton Bay waters. Stinger suits are recommended from November to May.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
3 photos from the community
Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Tangalooma Wrecks are on the western side of Moreton Island, 90 min by ferry from Brisbane. Tangalooma Island Resort runs ferries from Holt Street Wharf, Pinkenba. Guided snorkel tours depart from the resort daily. Self-guided access is possible if staying at the resort — the wrecks are just off the beach.
Parking & facilities
Paid long-term parking available at Holt Street Wharf (Brisbane). No parking on Moreton Island itself unless arriving by 4WD barge.
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Ferry transfers are ticketed. Snorkel tours from $69/pp (90 min). Resort guests and day-trippers can access the wrecks from the beach at no extra cost.
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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