Port Douglas · Queensland
Scuba Diving at Agincourt Reef
An outer ribbon reef system reached from Port Douglas, on the edge of the continental shelf.
Agincourt Reef is a ribbon reef system on the outer edge of the continental shelf, and the principal destination for Port Douglas reef trips.
Its position on the shelf edge means clearer water and better coral cover than inshore alternatives, with the reef dropping away on its ocean side.
It is served by both large pontoon-based operations and smaller dive vessels, which produce very different experiences of the same reef.
Recommended: Open Water Diver. Parts of the site reach 30 m, which needs Advanced Open Water, ideally with the Deep specialty. What can I dive with my cert?
Max depth
30 m
typically 15 m
Access
boat
Current
variable
Water temp
23–29°C
Level
beginner
up to intermediate
| Region | Port Douglas |
|---|---|
| State | Queensland |
| Access | boat |
| Site type | reef |
| Minimum depth | 5 m |
| Typical depth | 15 m |
| Maximum depth | 30 m |
| Current | variable |
| Visibility | Often 15–30 m |
| Water temperature | Roughly 23–29°C |
| Experience level | beginner, intermediate |
These are guidance categories, not guarantees. Conditions on the day, and an operator’s own requirements, override any classification here.
- hard and soft coral
- reef sharks
- giant clams
- Maori wrasse
- turtles
- reef fish diversity
Access
- Boat access from Port Douglas.
- Around 90 minutes transit depending on vessel.
Hazards
- current on the reef edge
- marine stingers in season
- boat traffic at moorings
Businesses documented as regularly diving this site.
Blue Dive Port DouglasPort DouglasPADIA Port Douglas PADI operator specialising in privately guided outer reef dives and private courses at the Agincourt and Opal reefs.BoatCoursesAdvancedSource-backed profile
Quicksilver ConnectionsPort DouglasPADIPort Douglas' largest reef operator, founded in 1979, running wavepiercers to its Agincourt Reef pontoon and a PADI 5 Star IDC training centre with a heated pool.BoatCoursesAdvancedProPoolHireSource-backed profileUseful Training for Diving Agincourt Reef
Not a list of everything available — the qualifications that actually change what you can do at this site.
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Planning Guides for Diving Agincourt Reef
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Dive Sites Near Agincourt Reef
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Agincourt Reef Diving FAQs
How deep is Agincourt Reef?
Depths range from around 5 metres to roughly 30 metres, with a typical profile around 15 metres. Conditions and route selection change this considerably.
Is Agincourt Reef suitable for beginners?
It can be, in reasonable conditions and with appropriate supervision. Conditions on the day matter more than certification level, and operators may impose their own requirements.
How do you get to Agincourt Reef?
Boat access from Port Douglas. Around 90 minutes transit depending on vessel.
Is there current at Agincourt Reef?
Current is recorded as variable. Conditions vary daily and should be checked close to the day.
What will I see at Agincourt Reef?
Commonly reported marine life includes hard and soft coral, reef sharks, giant clams, Maori wrasse, turtles, reef fish diversity. Sightings are never guaranteed.
When is the best time to dive Agincourt Reef?
Conditions vary through the year. Visibility is often 15–30 m. Check with local operators close to your dates.
Where is Agincourt Reef?
Agincourt Reef is in the Port Douglas region of Queensland.
Last researched: September 2026. Dive businesses change frequently — confirm current services, prices and requirements directly with the operator before booking.