Norman Reef is one of the most popular Outer Great Barrier Reefs to scuba dive and snorkel. Located 70 kilometres off the east coast of Australia on the very outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef along the continental shelf,
Norman Reef is easily one of the most prized snorkelling and diving destinations out of Cairns. Norman Reef contains shallow coral gardens, walls and drop-offs, swim-throughs and caves there is even a small wreck on one of the dive sites at Norman Reef.
The snorkelling and diving around Norman are known for its crystal clear waters with incredible visibility often up to 30 metres! (100 feet) . Divers and snorkellers can expect to see nudibranchs, reef sharks, bronze whalers, giant clams, anemones, moray eels, as well as a vast assortment of colourful fish that call Norman Reef Cairns home. There are spangled emperors, red bass, drummers and fusiliers, as well as garden eels in the sandy places. Often spotted are blue-spotted rays and turtles in abundance across Norman Reef.
The Giant Maori wrasses are a common sight in the caves. These fish can reach a length of up to 5 feet and are known as ‘the labradors’ of the ocean.
Norman Reef boasts soft and hard coral with a mixture of colourful staghorn thickets, large bommies with hillocks of coral cover. There is so much to see and to enjoy with the beauty of Norman Reef Cairns, while snorkelling is a special treat.
Looking for a day trip to the Outer Barrier Reef? Click HERE