Underwater Maggie

27 Aug

Underwater Maggie

Magnetic Island is home to at least nine different coral reefs, visible in the shallow waters around the island. Many of these reefs offer direct beach access, making it easy for snorkellers and divers to explore. The island’s prime location also makes it an excellent base for venturing to the more distant and pristine outer reefs of the Great Barrier Reef.

Several tour operators offer snorkelling experiences, but if you prefer to explore at your own pace, the following locations are renowned as some of the island’s best.

The island features two unique snorkel trails: one in Geoffrey Bay and the other in Nelly Bay. Each trail is marked with surface floats, and Snorkel Cards can be collected from various locations around the island, find the lis t here. Both trails are home to several Giant Clams, cultivated by the island’s own Dr. Rick Braley. Learn more about Dr. Braley, his life’s work, and his passion project, Aquasearch Aquarium, here.

The headlands of Alma Bay boast stunning coral gardens filled with colourful reef fish, making it a popular spot for rays and turtles. Alma Bay is also ranked among the Surf Life Saving Club’s Top Ten Beaches and is a family favourite due to its playground, BBQ facilities, amenities, and often sheltered beach.

Arthur Bay and Florence Bay, two secluded gems, offer exceptional snorkelling with typically sheltered waters and excellent visibility.

In Arthur Bay, you might encounter the intriguing Octopus wreck, often mistaken for the Platypus wreck. Believed to be a bucket dredge from 1928, this wreck rests at a depth of 8-10 metres, providing a captivating experience for snorkellers and inshore divers. Shelly, a resident turtle, is a beloved highlight, frequently spotted by snorkellers and tour groups. It’s worth noting that Arthur Bay sustained damage from Cyclone Kirrily at the start of 2024, but it is expected to gradually recover as nature works its magic.

Florence Bay features impressive coral bommies and a diverse array of reef fish, rays, and often black-tip reef sharks, creating a vibrant marine habitat. Locals have dubbed a small area "Mermaid Cove," known for its immersive and magical snorkelling experience. The shore is lined with shady casuarina trees, offering a perfect spot for a relaxing break after exploring the underwater world.

Additionally, a tour to John Brewer Reef and the Museum of Underwater Art provides a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate marine-themed art installations submerged in the sea. This museum combines art and conservation, offering a distinctive way to engage with the underwater world and its ecosystems. Notably, one of the Ocean Sentinels featured at the museum is our very own Dr. Rick Braley. Several operators, including Sealink North Queensland and Adrenaline Dive, have the privilege of sharing this extraordinary museum experience with guests.

Please note that snorkelling can be a strenuous activity, even in calm waters. If you are a novice, have a medical condition that could be exacerbated by exercise, or are over 50 and at higher risk for heart disease or stroke, please take these factors into account.

Do: Wear stinger suits between November and April, as stingers (marine jellyfish) are present during this time. Also, consider your sunscreen choice—opt for reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems.

Do not: Stand on coral or hold onto the sub-surface numbered floats. Water clarity can be reduced during and after south-east winds, and it’s best to avoid very low or high tides during new or full moon phases.

Before heading to the beach, pick up a snorkel card from one of the many retail outlets listed for a map of the island’s two snorkel trails. Your $5 donation for these cards helps cover the ongoing maintenance costs for the trails. If you don’t wish to keep the cards, please recycle them by leaving them in the drop box at the start of each trail.