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.
Visit Tangalooma Wrecks
Tangalooma Wrecks: Quick overview
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.
Quick facts
- Location: Just off the coast of Moreton Island, beside Tangalooma Island Resort
- Best time to visit: Mid-tide for safe swimming; mornings for the clearest visibility
- Access: 75-minute ferry from Brisbane + short walk or swim from shore
- Highlights: Easy snorkeling access, colorful coral gardens, and marine life sightings
- Season: Year-round; best conditions from October to April
- Facilities nearby: Tangalooma Resort (gear rental, café, restrooms, guided tours)
About the Tangalooma Wrecks
History & purpose
Living reef
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.
Marine life
The site teems with marine life, from turtles, rays, and wobbegongs to bright parrotfish and damselfish. Every dive or snorkel reveals something new.
Easy access
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.
What you can do at the Tangalooma Wrecks
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Snorkel straight from shore
Dive into calm waters and explore coral-covered wrecks alive with turtles, rays, and tropical fish — no boat required.
Discover the depths
Certified diver? Head deeper into the wrecks and uncover hidden reef walls and schools of marine life up close.
Paddle over the wrecks
Glide across the surface in a transparent kayak and watch the underwater world unfold right beneath you.
Join a marine discovery cruise
Sit back and explore by boat — enjoy expert commentary, marine spotting, and panoramic island views.
Island activities
After snorkeling, chase thrills with 4WD desert tours, sandboarding on giant dunes, or a relaxed island walk.
Know before you visit the Tangalooma Wrecks
- Time of day: Morning hours offer the best visibility and calmer water for snorkeling and kayaking.
- Tides: Visit during mid-tide. Avoid extreme low or high tides for the safest swim and easiest access to the wrecks.
- Day of the week: Weekdays are generally quieter, with fewer boats and snorkelers around the wrecks.
- Weekends: Expect larger crowds and limited tour availability. Book in advance if visiting on a Saturday or Sunday.
- Seasons: The warmer months (October-April) bring clearer water and active marine life, while winter (May-September) offers cooler, calmer conditions and fewer visitors.
- Ferry: Depart from Brisbane, Holt Street Wharf, or other nearby ports to Moreton Island.
- Transfer to resort: Most ferries dock at Tangalooma Resort, a short walk from the beach to the wrecks.
- Wreck location: The Tangalooma Wrecks lie just offshore of the resort’s shoreline, about 50–100 meters from the beach.
- Travel time: Ferry rides typically take 75–90 minutes from Brisbane.
- Swimwear: Comfortable swimsuit or rash guard for sun and stinger protection.
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin without harming coral or marine life.
- Snorkel gear: Mask, snorkel, and fins (some tours provide equipment).
- Towel & change of clothes: For after your swim or snorkel session.
- Water & snacks: Stay hydrated, especially on sunny days.
- Underwater camera/GoPro: Capture the vibrant coral, fish, and turtles.
- Optional: Light wetsuit for cooler months or added sun protection.
- Swim in pairs: Always snorkel or swim with a buddy for added security.
- Stay within your comfort zone: Don’t venture into deeper waters if you’re a beginner.
- Check reef conditions and currents: Avoid strong currents and rough seas; follow local signage.
- Follow guides’ instructions: Listen to tour leaders for safety tips and recommended routes.
- Protect marine life: Avoid touching coral or disturbing animals.
- Know emergency procedures: Be aware of flotation devices and first aid stations on the beach.
- Resort amenities at Tangalooma: toilets, changing rooms, gear rental, refreshments, cafés, and lockers
- Guided tours and snorkeling equipment rental
- No facilities directly at the wreck site
- Shore access only; no lifeguards on the wrecks
- Beach and water are free-form; bring your own essentials
- Limited shaded areas on the beach
- Waste disposal points at the resort
- Wear a light wetsuit or rash guard for warmth and protection.
- Move slowly and gently over the reef to reduce disturbance.
- Early bookings are recommended during peak season.
- Bring an underwater camera for snapshots of coral and fish.
Snapshots from your Tangalooma Wrecks adventure
Snorkel the Tangalooma wrecks
Swim straight from shore into a coral paradise buzzing with marine life.
Frequently asked questions about Tangalooma Wrecks
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.
