In the 1960s, fifteen old ships were deliberately sunk off Moreton Island to form a breakwall. What began as a practical barrier for small boats soon became one of Queensland’s most loved snorkeling sites.
Just offshore from Tangalooma Resort on Moreton Island, fifteen vessels were deliberately sunk in the 1960s to form a breakwall — now known as the Tangalooma Wrecks. What started as a maritime project has become one of Queensland’s most famous snorkeling and diving sites.
With calm, shallow waters and vibrant coral covering the hulls, the wrecks are perfect for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers. Swim straight from the beach to spot turtles, rays, and schools of tropical fish gliding through the sunlit reef.
In the 1960s, fifteen old ships were deliberately sunk off Moreton Island to form a breakwall. What began as a practical barrier for small boats soon became one of Queensland’s most loved snorkeling sites.
Decades later, the wrecks are now cloaked in coral and sea sponges. Schools of tropical fish weave through the rusted hulls, creating a colorful underwater ecosystem.
The site teems with marine life, from turtles, rays, and wobbegongs to bright parrotfish and damselfish. Every dive or snorkel reveals something new.
Lying just 50–100 meters from Tangalooma Beach, the wrecks are ideal for all skill levels. You can swim, snorkel, or kayak straight from shore into crystal-clear waters.
Dive into calm waters and explore coral-covered wrecks alive with turtles, rays, and tropical fish — no boat required.
Certified diver? Head deeper into the wrecks and uncover hidden reef walls and schools of marine life up close.
Glide across the surface in a transparent kayak and watch the underwater world unfold right beneath you.
Sit back and explore by boat — enjoy expert commentary, marine spotting, and panoramic island views.
After snorkeling, chase thrills with 4WD desert tours, sandboarding on giant dunes, or a relaxed island walk.
Swim straight from shore into a coral paradise buzzing with marine life.
The Tangalooma Wrecks are located off the coast of Moreton Island, Queensland, Australia, just a short boat ride from Brisbane.
Popular activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and wildlife spotting.
No, the wrecks are located offshore and can only be accessed by boat, kayak, or swimming.
Yes, snorkeling is generally suitable for ages 6 and above with adult supervision, while scuba diving usually requires participants to be at least 12 years old.
No certification is needed for snorkeling, but scuba diving requires an Open Water Diver certification. Introductory dive sessions are available for beginners.
Basic swimming ability is necessary. The guided snorkeling tours come with flotation devices and constant supervision.
You can book tours with guided snorkeling at the Tangalooma Wrecks, accessible for both beginner and experienced snorkelers. We recommend booking the Moreton Island Tour with Marine Discovery Cruise, Snorkeling, and Park Fees.
Guided snorkeling and scuba diving tours are restricted to younger children for safety reasons. Families with kids can opt for the Moreton Island Tour with a Snorkelling Tour, Transparent Kayaks, 4WD Desert Adventure and Lunch.
Here’s a fun fact: the original live-action Scooby-Doo movie, starring Freddie Prinze Jr. and Sarah Michelle Gellar was filmed at Moreton Island!
Over the years, the wrecks have been reclaimed by nature and it is a site teeming with colorful creatures. You can expect to see corals, sea turtles, blue-ringed octopus, wobbegong sharks (with leopard-patterned bodies), and more.
Yes, with precautions. Strong currents exist, and it's unpatrolled. Guided tours, swimming with a buddy, and awareness of boat traffic are essential.
The Tangalooma Wrecks range in depth from 2 to 12 meters (6.6 to 39.4 feet), making them suitable for both snorkeling and diving.
Ferries operate from Brisbane to Moreton Island, with the wrecks easily accessible from Tangalooma Island Resort.
Moreton Island: Tangalooma Wrecks Snorkel, Clear Kayak, & 4WD Desert Tour with Lunch
Moreton Island: Dolphin Eco-Cruise & Tangalooma Wrecks Snorkel Tour
Moreton Island: Adventure Day Pass and Return Ferry
From Gold Coast: Tangalooma Wrecks Snorkel, Clear Kayak, & 4WD Desert Tour with Lunch