Sunshine Coast: Scuba Dive the Ex-HMAS Brisbane Ship Wreck
Mooloolaba, Brisbane
Dive into the world of the Ex-HMAS Brisbane, a decommissioned destroyer. Explore the outside of the wreck and encounter an abundance of local sea life. Must be a certified diver.
Highlights
- Dive the Ex-HMAS Brisbane, one of the world's best wreck dives located offshore from Brisbane
- Explore the wreck's exterior and observe abundant local marine life
- Enter the hull, engine room, and control room of the ship
- Benefit from consistent water clarity and minimal swell for optimal diving conditions
- Encounter marine species including turtles, eagle rays, and others
Description
The Ex-HMAS Brisbane is a decommissioned guided missile destroyer situated 2.9 nautical miles offshore Brisbane. It is recognized globally as a premier wreck dive site and is accessible year-round.
Sunreef operates exclusive use of two midship moorings, allowing divers two relaxed dives to explore the entire wreck safely. Divers can investigate the hull's depths, enter the engine and control rooms, where original kill switches remain intact.
The ship serves as a high-quality artificial reef, attracting divers from Open Water to Divemaster levels, instructors, dive shop owners, and former HMAS Brisbane servicemen. The wreck rests upright with 15 meters of water over the forward decks and 18 meters at the stern.
Consistently clear water and low swell contribute to excellent diving conditions. Water temperatures range from 17°C in winter to 27°C in summer. Visibility typically averages 15 meters, occasionally exceeding 20 meters.
Scientific studies by the Environmental Protection Agency, University of the Sunshine Coast, and Queensland Museum confirm the wreck supports diverse marine life. Residents include bull and eagle rays, angler fish, lionfish, blennies, nudibranchs, sea hares, squid, juvenile red emperor, snapper, shoal nose rays, greasy cod, and others.
Unique fauna include an octopus inhabiting a pyrotechnic tube, predatory yellow-tailed kingfish schooling nearby, up to 10 giant Queensland groupers near the bow, turtles residing on the aft funnel, and eagle rays cruising between funnels. Both soft and hard corals are well established on the wreck.
Includes
- Return boat trip
- Light snacks
- Marine Park permits
- Qualified PADI Dive Instructors or Divemasters guiding the dive
Excludes
- Scuba dive equipment
- Underwater camera
- Hotel pickups
Important Information
- Participants must have a current scuba certification, at least Open Water level, and have dived within the last two years
- Bring your dive certification card or digital copy on the day
- Dive equipment is not included but available for hire at additional cost
- Cameras can be hired for an extra fee
- Pregnant women cannot participate in this dive
- A signed diver statement is required before diving
- Diving torches are mandatory for penetration dives and can be hired if needed
- Water temperatures range from 17°C (winter) to 27°C (summer)
- Visibility averages 15 meters, sometimes exceeding 20 meters
Easy cancellation
Cancellation is allowed up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, book in advance, bring your certified dive card, and dress for varying water temperatures depending on the season.
