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Snorkelling the tangalooma shipwrecks: a comprehensive travel guide.

The Tangalooma Shipwrecks, located on subtropical Moreton Island, are an iconic and mesmerising site. While you may not have heard of their name, you have most likely seen a photo of them while travelling around Australia ! Although initially placed for various reasons, these shipwrecks are now a super popular snorkel and dive spot just off Brisbane . 

We were lucky enough to visit and snorkel these shipwrecks in late May 2022 before we both got jobs at the Tangalooma Island Resort . Afterwards, we could snorkel them for work and whenever we wanted in our free time! We realised we only knew half of what we thought we did before we came for our snorkel tour day trip. Therefore, we decided to make a post so you can find all the information you need to know about snorkelling the Tangalooma Shipwrecks!

What are the Tangalooma Shipwrecks?

The Tangalooma shipwrecks are a group of 15 wrecks just off the coast of Moreton Island in Queensland , Australia. As Moreton Island doesn’t have a harbour or Marina, the Queensland government intentionally sank these ships between 1963 and 1984. Altogether, these wrecks break up the swell and wind, creating a calm environment and a safe anchorage site for recreational boats.

As these shipwrecks provide a large and stable structure likely to withstand weather events, multiple species of coral found a place to settle. Together with coral came lots of fish, making it one of the better artificial reefs in Australia.

All boats that they sank had something to do with Moreton Island. As Moreton Island is the world’s third- largest sand island , most ships were used as barges, trawlers and dredges. When you go snorkelling the Tangalooma Wrecks, you can easily see the dredge buckets used to scoop sand off the island. The island’s sand has a high percentage of silicon, making it ideal for glass, concrete and other building supplies. Today the island is luckily protected as a national park, making it impossible to use any of its resources.

How to get to the Tangalooma Shipwrecks: 

Getting to the Tangalooma Shipwrecks is easy, with various options leaving daily from Queensland’s capital of Brisbane. The shipwrecks are located about 1.5 km from the Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island’s western side. Once you get to Moreton Island, you are only a short walk away from the Shipwrecks. The only thing left is a 40-metre swim over the 12 metres-deep channel to start your adventures in snorkel town.

You will need to take the Micat, the Tangalooma Island Resort Ferry, your own boat, or a helicopter to get to the island. Please note that you can only take the Tangalooma Resort Ferry and helicopter service if you stay at the resort or hold a valid day pass. For more information about getting to the island, please see our Tangalooma Island Resort Guide here . 

Self-guided snorkelling: 

Snorkelling the wrecks without a tour is easy if you know what you are doing and pick the right day and time. Luckily, you have found this post, written with the knowledge after months of experience diving and snorkelling on the wrecks almost every day. Below, in the snorkelling on the Tangalooma Shipwrecks section, you’ll find a comprehensive guide on how to snorkel the Wrecks by yourself. We talk about everything, from currents, tides and winds and what gear you should bring to how the combination of all these factors will affect your experience. 

However, if you are not a confident swimmer, we also line out all different tour options to snorkel the Wrecks with a tour guide. If there is anything you need to know about snorkelling the Tangalooma Wrecks, it is in this beginner’s guide to snorkelling the Tangalooma Wrecks!

1. Take a day trip or camping trip through the Micat: 

If you have your own snorkel gear and are a confident swimmer, we recommend taking the Micat to Moreton Island and snorkelling the wrecks yourself! The Micat travels almost daily and operates on an ‘on-demand’ basis, so it can run anywhere between 1 to 5 services per day. Its anchoring place is next to the Wrecks, close to the additional campsite, so only a 2-minute walk to the Wrecks.

The Micat is the cheapest option and has very reasonable prices for foot passengers. Moreover, if you bring your camping gear, camping on the island is inexpensive, lowering the general cost of your stay. You can also bring your own car over on the Micat and drive around the entire island to get the most out of the trip! To book the Micat, click  here . 

2. Visit or stay at the Tangalooma Island Resort:

If you want to stay on the island, but feel like something other than camping, stay at the Tangalooma Island Resort! The resort is located a little over 1.5km from the wrecks making it easily accessible if you want to do a self-guided tour. If a stay is not your thing, the Tangalooma Island Resort also offers various day passes, allowing you to use all resort facilities. Although snorkel gear is available on the island, it comes at a price, and we recommend bringing your own. Additionally, try to pack as lightly as possible, as there are no free options to store your stuff, even if you book one of their tours.

Snorkel equipment hire prices:

3 hours (mask, snorkel and fins):  $39

Full day (mask, snorkel and fins):  $49

See the Tangalooma Shipwrecks on a Guided Snorkel Tour:

If you are not a confident swimmer, there are multiple options available to see the Tangalooma Shipwrecks. Two guided snorkel tour companies operate on the island, and two are available off-island. Below we line out all options to help you find the one that fits you best: 

1. Tangalooma Island Resort: Guided Tours: 

If you are staying at the resort or have purchased an appropriate day pass, you can hop onto one of the Tangalooma Island Resort guided snorkel tours! Operated by Tangatours, there are anywhere between 2 or 4 tours (depending on the season) per day, making it easy to find a time that suits you. Full gear (snorkel, mask, fins and wet suit) is provided, as well as boat transfer to and from the wrecks with a snorkel guide to take you around the wrecks in the water. The tour lasts 1.5 hours, including briefing, transport, and 35 minutes of water time. 

As a former employee of Tangatours, I can thoroughly recommend this tour. All tour guides are well-trained, and their guidelines are strict. Moreover, since the Tangalooma Island Resort is very dependent on the future of these shipwrecks, Tangatours treats this place with the respect it deserves. 

Price for house guests: 

Adults –  $69

Child (6+) – $55

To book, click  here . 

If you are not staying at the Tangalooma Island Resort and if you want a Tangalooma Island Resort Day trip with a snorkel tour included and a food voucher, you will need to purchase the Wrecks Day Criuse. 

Guided snorkel tour – day cruise/pass:

Adults (14yrs +) –  $149 

Children (6-14 yrs) –  $119

Includes: Return ferry transfer from Brisbane, lunch-, drink voucher, guided snorkel tour and access to all resort facilities for the entire day.

2. River to Bay: Guided tours from Brisbane:  

River to bay offers snorkel tours from Brisbane, Redcliffe & Sandstone Point. All-inclusive tours include snorkel gear hire and transportation, light snacks, and refreshments for the trip. Tours depart early morning and return just after lunch, around 1 pm. The minimum age for snorkelling is six years. 

Prices: 

Leaving from Brisbane:

Adults (15+) – $150

Children (6-14yrs) – $120

Two adults + two children – $500

Couples – $290

To book from Brisbane, click  here . 

Leaving from Redcliffe & Sandstone Point:

To book from Redcliffe & Sandstone Point, click  here .

3. Sunset Safari: Guided tours from Brisbane: 

Their day consists of more than just the snorkel as with kyaks and sand tobogganing; you get an entire day of activities on offer! Sunset Safari offers a Get Wrecked 1-Day tour to the Tangalooma Wrecks, with pick-up available from Brisbane city, Gold Coast and Port of Brisbane. s, Departs Gold Coast at 5:45 am from the Mantra on View Hotel, Brisbane Coach Terminal at 7 am and the Port of Brisbane at 7:30 am.

Leaving from Brisbane – $249

From Gold Coast – $279

From the Port of Brisbane – $239

To book, or to find out more, click  here . 

4. See Moreton: Guided tours from the Gold Coast: 

Voted TripAdvisor’s #1 Brisbane Boat Tour, the See Moreton day trip has a full day of adventure and indulgence planned for you. With pick-up available from Brisbane city and the Gold Coast, you can snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks, have a Tropical Buffet Lunch, have free island and beach time, and even have a chance to Kayak! Moreover, you even get a Marine Discovery Cruise included, so you get three adventures in one day!

Adults (14+) – $199

Child (3-13yrs) – $159

Infants – free

Family (2 adults + two children) – $716 or $557 if you get it on sale!

If you want even more indulgence and luxury, why not upgrade to the VIP Captain’s Lounge Seating? This VIP experience is just $40 more! 

Snorkelling on the Tangalooma Shipwrecks: 

Below we will list all the components to consider when planning your snorkel trip to the Tangalooma Island Shipwrecks. These are helpful when planning your self-guided snorkel tour and determining what time of day is the best option for a guided snorkel tour. Please read and plan carefully to get the most out of your adventure. 

Choosing the best time to snorkel or dive: 

It isn’t always a sunny wind-free day in the middle of summer with perfect conditions to snorkel the Tangalooma Shipwrecks. Elements vary per day, and even on an ideal day, the currents around the shipwrecks can suddenly surprise you. There are so many different components to snorkelling the Wrecks that it is an art to predict the best time to snorkel on a particular day. However, with the proper knowledge of all the elements, it’s much easier to narrow your options, so keep reading!

1. Tides: 

It is possible to snorkel the Tangalooma shipwrecks at high and low tides. Yet, when it comes to accessibility, the high tide is the preferable tide to snorkel. High tide makes it easier above shallow bits, and there are more reachable areas. The chances of hurting yourself on the ships are much higher at low tide, and some areas will be impossible to see. 

Keeping an eye on how significant the tide changes are is essential. The lowest tide at the Tanglooma shipwrecks is about 0.2, and the highest is about 2.3 metres. If on your day the low tide is a 1-metre low tide, snorkelling is much easier than on a 0.2 metres low tide.

2. Currents: 

The best time to snorkel the Tangalooma shipwrecks is as close to the tides as possible. Although the high tide is the big winner regarding accessibility, it doesn’t make a difference whether it is low or high for the currents. 

The hour around high or low tide is a perfect time to avoid any currents influenced by the tides. The current slows significantly about an hour before and after the tide change, making it the ideal 2-hour timeslot to snorkel. For example: if it’s high or low tide at 11 am, the best time current-wise is 10.30 till 11.30 am. Yet, 10 am till 12 am is very acceptable.

Currents are the strongest in between the tide changes, and the way the current drags depends on whether it is an outgoing or incoming tide. When the tide changes from high to low tide, the current will be going from South to North or away from the resort. When the tide changes from low to high, the current will go from North to South or towards the resort. There is no point swimming against the current, so it’s best to snorkel in the direction of the currents. If you choose to snorkel between tides, I recommend snorkelling with an incoming tide, as the North to South route is easier to manage the currents.

It is essential to keep an eye out for how significant the tide change is. The current will be better if the difference between high and low tide is only 0.6 metres. Yet, if the difference between the tides is close to 2 metres, you can get extreme currents at the shipwrecks. Even more, the currents usually don’t affect swimming out or in from the beach, whereas the tides on a current switch of 2 metres can make it hard for advanced swimmers.

As if the tides and currents aren’t enough to look out for, it is also essential to keep an eye out for the wind.   Winds under 10 knots do not affect the Shipwrecks much, although winds between 10 and 30 do. 

If you have between 10 to 30-knot winds going in the same direction as the currents, you can expect the waves to push the current even harder. However, the opposite is also true. When you have 10 to 30-knot winds opposite the current, it will slow down the current slightly. Yet, the collision of the waves and the current will create some waves. If these winds come from the west, you can expect the waves to go over the shipwrecks and make snorkelling rough. A 10 to 30-knot wind from the East will only affect your snorkelling experience a little, as the island protects most of it.

Although it isn’t impossible to snorkel the wrecks above 30 knots winds, it is strongly discouraged. It gets dangerous with such high waves as it increases the chances of getting hurt by the shipwrecks. When the wind comes from the East, the waves at the wrecks will be minimal, although when the wind comes from the west, the swell can make it hard to snorkel. Please, if the wind is above 30 knots, have a good look at what the other circumstances are before swimming out. There aren’t any lifeguards around, so you must be confident. If nobody else is snorkelling at the wrecks, that is a sign, as all year round, these wrecks are a popular snorkel spot!

4. General weather: 

Although the weather isn’t the biggest life-changer at the wrecks, it does play a part in your snorkelling experiences. In heavy thunder and lightning storms, you should not be in the water at any time and wait for the storm to pass. Visibility-wise it is better to snorkel on a sunny day, and even better, on a sunny week as that improves the visibility significantly. Rain doesn’t always affect visibility, although rainy weeks make a difference. 

In summer, the water temperature is about 25 degrees on average. In winter, that average drops to about 19 degrees. Although swimming is acceptable in both periods, 19 degrees with cold winds isn’t ideal. Yet, I liked winter better, as fewer people mean less damage to the corals and a much more beautiful and healthy underwater world.

5. Other things influencing your snorkel 

The Tangalooma Shipwrecks are busy and popular for various reasons and people. On school holidays, public holidays or cruise ship days at the resort, snorkelling gets very chaotic. Avoiding these days is advised, as there are people and boats everywhere. Moreover, since there are barely any regulations on ships at the Shipwrecks, people act like they own the place, creating hazardous situations for snorkellers. 

On the other hand, it’s on these days that many people are around if something goes wrong. During the school holidays, you’ll often find lifeguards patrolling the area, whereas, on cruise ship days, the resort has extra people to keep a lookout.

What equipment should I take?

Whether you take a day trip by yourself or through any tour company, try to take as few items as possible. There are only a few places to store your stuff, and the available lockers come with a price. Make sure there is nothing to lose to avoid any unnecessary stress. Here are the items I would take for a stress-free day: 

• Snorkel mask, snorkel and fins:  avoid the hassle and prices of hiring snorkel gear and bring your own. If you do a tour, these items will likely be included.
• A towel : a day at the beach, snorkelling the shipwrecks is better with a towel.
• Drinking water, food and snacks:  to use the facilities of the Tangalooma Island Resort, you’ll need a valid day pass. If you are staying at the campsite, ensure you are entirely self-sufficient. 
• Wetsuit:  wearing a wetsuit for the temperatures isn’t needed, but a wetsuit significantly protects you from sharp and rusty shipwrecks. If you have a wetsuit, you should bring your own. If you need one, you can always hire one.

Additional must-knows for snorkelling the Tangalooma Shipwrecks: 

Although most of Moreton Island’s wildlife and marine life are innocent, you are still in Australia. At the Tangalooma shipwrecks, we do have stonefish and lionfish. Being the number one and two deadliest fish in the world, you should keep an eye out for them. Encounters aren’t regular but happen once in a while.

1. Stonefish:

Stonefish dig themselves in the sand, making them hard to see. If you keep an eye out for these fish, they are spotted as a grumpy rocks sitting at the bottom of the ocean. As a rule of thumb, you should not stand on anything that looks like a rock in the water. Stonefish do not chase you; their poison is a defence mechanism if you stand on them. Anti-venom is available, but it needs to be administered fast, as paralysis and death can occur within the hour. If you are stung by the spikes on their back, you should call the ambulance (000) immediately!

1. Lionfish:

In comparison to stonefish, lionfish are easy to spot. These very colourful fish is pretty cool to look at; however, their red, white and black bands have venomous spiky fin rays. Lionfish are rarely fatal to adults but can be very dangerous to children, the elderly, and anyone with an allergic reaction. Their stings will cause extreme pain, vomiting and breathing difficulties. If you see a lionfish, keep a safe distance. If you accidentally touch one of their venomous spiky fins, you should immediately call the ambulance (000)! 

Wildlife and Marine Life at the Tangalooma Shipwrecks: 

Since the addition of the last shipwreck in 1984, things have changed drastically. Coral started multiplying, and with that coral came lots of wildlife and marine life. Today, the Tangalooma Shipwrecks house up to 200 different species of fish and about 130 species of hard and soft coral. Below I’ll give a brief overview of the most important species to watch. 

Corals at the Tangalooma Wrecks:

As the Tangalooma Wrecks are at the edge of the tropical north and the temperate south, the coral species are a mixture of both. Also, since the water temperature varies between 19 degrees in winter and 25 degrees in summer, it houses specific corals that can withstand these changes. The most common species of coral found at the Tangalooma Wrecks is Staghorn Finger Coral. These types of coral can grow up to 30 cm a year.

Luckily, in Moreton Bay, the water is pretty healthy, with very stable temperatures, preventing the coral from bleaching. The different colours of the corals are from the algae inside the coral, which provide the corals with food. The coral, in return, provides the housing for much young fish that find a home at the Tangalooma wrecks. 

It is crucial to remember that collecting corals is forbidden. Besides, it would be best if you didn’t touch the coral. Not only can you hurt yourself, but it is also bad for the coral. Over the past few months, I worked as a snorkel guide at the Tangalooma wrecks. I have seen much damage from people stepping on coral or boats anchoring above corals. Please have respect for these corals if you are out on your snorkelling adventure.

Animals at the Tangalooma Wrecks: 

Listing all 200 different species of fish, together with sharks, dolphins, Dugongs, and Rays, would be an impossible task. However, here’s a brief introduction to the most common and extraordinary things you might encounter while snorkelling the Tangalooma Wrecks: 

1. Wobbegong Sharks: 

Although being in the open ocean, there is always a chance to see all kinds of sharks, the only species to inhabit the Tangalooma Shipwrecks is the Wobbegong Shark. These typical Australian sharks are born about 20cm big but can reach a size of up to 3 metres. 

The name Wobbegong comes from the Indigenous word for Shaggy Beard. Wobbegong sharks are not dangerous to humans, although they are the only shark that can bite their tale so pulling its tale is probably a bad idea. They have a brown desert camouflage colour with whiskers off the front of their mouth. Since these sharks are nocturnal and only hunt for fish or crustaceans at night, you’ll probably see them sleep on the bottom of the ocean. Wobbegong sharks fall under the category of carpet sharks as they don’t have to swim to pass water over their gills. Instead, they have involuntary pumps to get oxygen to survive.

2. Turtles: 

Moreton Bay is home to three species of turtles, and with some luck, you might encounter one on your snorkel adventure. If you see a turtle, please don’t touch it and give it space to come up for a breath if it needs to breathe. These turtles are very fragile and deserve to be left alone. Take nothing but pictures!

The green sea turtle is the most widespread in Moreton Bay. These turtles can grow up to 1.5 metres in length, exceed 80 years of age and weigh up to 200kg. Green sea turtles breathe every 5 minutes and even hold their breath longer if needed. Sometimes we see turtles ‘dance’ on the wrecks because they are trying to get rid of the barnacles on their shells. It is estimated that there are about 10,000 green sea turtles in the entire bay.

Less widespread in Moreton Bay are the Loggerhead Turtles. You know, you see a Loggerhead turtle if they have a very brown colour and their head has a log shape. Unlike the green sea turtles, these turtles feed on more than just sea grass and like to add small fish, crustaceans and sea urchins to their diet. It is estimated that there are about 2000 Loggerhead turtles in the bay.

The last specie of turtle you might encounter is the Hawksbill turtle. However, these turtles are critically endangered, with their population decreasing yearly. 

3. Stingrays: 

Moreton Bay is home to 6 different species of stingrays. The most common is the Blue Spotted Lagoon Ray. These rays have a grey colour with blue spots and two black stings at the back of the tail. With their 70cm in length and 30cm wide, they are the smallest rays around the Shipwrecks.

Other rays include the Bull Ray, which reaches sizes of almost 2.5 metres long and 1.5 metres wide. The shipwrecks sometimes get Eagle Rays as well, defined by their navy blue appearance with small white spots. In contrast to other rays, the shape of an Eagle Ray is triangular. However, consider yourself lucky to see these rays as they only appear once a month. 

A little bit deeper, you can spot shovelnose rays on the bottom of the ocean. These rays are commonly mistaken for sharks due to their small dorsal fin. They grow up to 2.7 metres in length and are well-known for their long pointy snout.

4. Dolphins: 

There are about 600 dolphins that call Moreton Bay their home. Although these are rarely spotted while snorkelling, you will likely see one during your stay on Moreton Island. The dolphins in the bay are inshore bottlenose dolphins that can live up to 45 years old. 

These dolphins feed themselves on small fish and take advantage of human activities to get fish. Fun fact; inshore bottlenose dolphins are conscious breathers. They sleep with only one-half of their brain at a time. The other half of the brain stays alert to regulate breathing.

Are the Tangalooma Shipwrecks worth it? 

In short, yes! There are so many reasons to go to the Tangalooma Shipwrecks; we could make a whole other post, but you will never regret going! Not only will you get some stunning photos and footage, but you will also discover and explore an incredible underwater world—spot turtles, different corals, wobbegong sharks and maybe even a dolphin out at the wrecks.

We hope this guide helps you plan your next adventure to the Tangalooma Shipwrecks or inspires you to visit them. Just over an hour on the ferry from Brisbane lies this underwater wonderworld full of life and colour, just waiting to be explored. This travel guide contains everything you need to know about snorkelling the wrecks, either by yourself or on tour. Don’t hesitate to contact us on the contact page if you have any questions or concerns.

Did you enjoy this  travel guide ? Please let us know in the comments below! Do you want to start exploring but have questions on how to start? We are  here to help  with all your  travel  needs! For more inspiration, check out our travel  blogs and vlogs  or the  tips & tricks  section. To keep up to date with our adventures and future travel guides, follow us on  Instagram  and  Facebook , or subscribe to our newsletter! Feel free to send us a message through the  contact page ! We can’t build this  platform  without our readers, so we thank you for your continued support. Stay tuned for many more adventures to come! 

Yentl Doggen

Welcome to the Yentl Doggen website. This website reflects on my travels throughout the world and my freelance music career. I am a professional musician from Belgium and started travelling the world in 2019. Since then, I’ve been striving to combine as much music as possible into my love for travelling. Or as much travelling into my passion for music, whichever works best :)

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Dolphins & Tangalooma Wrecks Cruise

See more see more ton, best snorkelling destination in qld, tripadvisor's #1 brisbane boat tour, locally owned & operated, let the adventure begin.

Throw your swimwear into a bag and set sail to a subtropical paradise with the marine tourism experts at See Moreton. Explore the famed Tangalooma Wrecks. Watch dolphins, dugongs and sea turtles in the wild. Snorkel with hundreds of colourful fish accompanied by marine naturalists. Feast on a tropical buffet lunch and delight in pristine golden beaches. It doesn’t take long to di scover why Moreton Island (Mulgumpin) is South East Queensland’s best-kept secret.

Your Day at a Glance

Take a journey with us to the pristine waters of Moreton Bay Marine Park.

Snorkel The Wrecks

Marine animals, buffet lunch, island time.

• Paddle Boarding

Intentionally scuttled at various points from the 60’s the Tangalooma Wrecks rest on the ocean floor offering an underwater playground voted the #1 snorkelling site in Queensland. There are now 15 ships to explore just off the coastline creating a safe snorkelling site for all abilities. Spectacular coral formations now call the wreckage home, attracting marine life great and small.

Meet Marine Friends

Thanks to its beautiful tapestry of coral reefs, sheltered bays and extensive seagrass meadows Moreton Island (Mulgumpin) beckons with a passing parade of wildlife. Home to the largest population of resident bottlenose dolphins in the world and over a thousand species of fish, the bay is also a stronghold for the vulnerable dugong and six of the world’s seven species of sea turtle.

Tropical Lunch Buffet

Fuel up for a day in the sun with a tropical buffet lunch offering a delicious selection of cold dishes such as succulent roast chicken and fresh-baked ham off the bone, wild-caught local king prawns, and plenty of vegetarian options. Although they say not to swim with a full tummy, it will be hard to resist with this banquet.

Explore The Island

Explore miles of unspoilt beaches by foot, build castles by the shore with the kids, climb a sand dune to capture an Insta-worthy view, or simply stretch out under an umbrella with a good book, there is plenty of free time on the island for you to spend as you see fit.

Stand-Up Paddle the Clear Island Waters

Enjoy the freedom of exploring the turquoise waters surrounding the island with a stand-up paddleboard. Glide at your own pace, and soak in the stunning views while charting your own course. It’s easy for beginners and a blast for everyone!

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Our commitment to excellence

Our Tour Lovers

“ Great day spent on the water with wonderful guides. Saw dolphins, snorkeled and had time on the beach. Pick up at the hotel with transfers to the boat was a plus. Lunch was very good. Highly recommended! Geekle TripAdvisor

“ I’d highly recommend this cruise. Very well organised, great communication and food. The snorkelling is 1 hour and is just fantastic. I’ve snorkelled slot and this was well worth it. Merren TripAdvisor

“ We had a relaxing but also exciting day out with a great crew who were friendly, professional and knowledgeable. We instantly got to see Doggie the Dugong and turtles. The snorkelling was amazing! Miller TripAdvisor

“ We had absolutely perfect weather and a perfect excursion. We saw a pod of about 30 dolphins on our way to the island. We also saw 5 huge turtles and Dougie the dugong! It was quite spectacular. Debbie TripAdvisor

“ My partner and I went yesterday! Wow! We loved every single moment! The whole crew was so careful, friendly and nice! The lunch was good, the cruise was so comfortable and big enough for 40 people! VERY organized about each detail, especially snorkeling part. Angie TripAdvisor

Discover Moreton Island

Book a day tour and discover everything Moreton has to offer!

Acknowledgement of Country

See Moreton acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters on which we operate and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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MORE INFORMATION

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Snorkeling the Tangalooma Wrecks

The best kept secret is that you can, and must not miss, snorkeling Brisbane waters while you are in town. During the Dolphin Wild Eco Marine Safari Cruise, you have the option to participate in a Guided Snorkel and Fish Feeding tour of the famous Tangalooma Wrecks at Moreton Island. This site is recognized as one of the world’s premier snorkeling destinations, with 15 fascinating shipwrecks and artificial reef to explore.

This world renowned group of wrecks were originally sunk to provide a protected mooring area for the local Brisbane families visiting the island in their recreational boats. It’s now known for its richly diverse environment of invertebrates, hard corals and over a hundred different species of fish and many other local marine life inhabitants.

Think you’ve snorkeled in some of the best places in the world already? Well wait until you get into the crystal clear aqua water with Dolphin Wild Island Cruises. This is not your average snorkel, it’s a drift snorkel. You will be dropped off at one end of the wrecks and float your way around, over and through the 15 shipwrecks to the other end where your vessel will be waiting for you. A safety boat will escort you at either end of the wrecks for additional safety.

Your guide will lead you the safest and most interesting path through the shipwrecks stopping along the way to feed the fish so you can get up close and personal with the local marine life. The best thing about snorkelling the Tangalooma Wrecks is that each time you return, the snorkel will be different. As the tide changes so does the amount of exposed shipwrecks; altering your path and allowing you to see everything from a different perspective.

To participate in the Guided Snorkelling and Fish Feeding Tour of the Tangalooma Wrecks, you must be able to swim. Dolphin Wild provide all required gear including Eco Guides, safety vessel, wetsuit, mask and fins. If you don’t wish to snorkel, or are not a confident swimmer, the vessel will anchor near the wrecks, so non snorkelers can still experience and photograph these magnificent wrecks and Moreton Island. During the snorkel, you will remain onboard the vessel, relaxing in the sunshine or in our comfortable air conditioned saloon, until all snorkellers are back on board.

Please note, for your safety, participants must be competent swimmers to join the snorkel tour. There can be strong currents through the wrecks, so it is important you feel comfortable and confident in the water.

You are welcome to bring your own mask/snorkel/wetsuit if you have your own. Otherwise we will provide all necessary equipment. We DO NOT provide participants with life jackets for the snorkelling tour as you must be able to swim to participate.

Due to Queensland Workplace Health and Safety Legislation and Risk Assessments, we are unable to allow patrons to snorkel alone at the Tangalooma Wrecks whilst on the cruise.

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Day Trip to Tangalooma & Snorkeling at the incredible Shipwrecks.

• Post author: Elyse
• Post category: Australia
• Post last modified: 18/04/2022
• Post comments: 8 Comments

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Home » Travel Guides » Australia » Day Trip to Tangalooma & Snorkeling at the incredible Shipwrecks.

If you’re looking for an incredible day trip from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, Tangalooma Island Resort needs to be on your list! Tangalooma is on Moreton Island and only a 75-minute ferry ride from Brisbane. And the best part is, Tangalooma has one of the most unique and easily accessible snorkeling spots in southern Queensland.  

Recently my husband and I celebrated our two-year wedding anniversary, and for occasions like this, we always like to go away. The original plan was to be in Italy but then of course COVID ruined that. So taking advantage of the beautiful state we live in, we thought a day trip to Tangalooma would be perfect. Tangalooma Island Resort was absolutely stunning, the water (although a little cold) was amazing, so blue and crystal clear.  

There’re so many options when it comes to visiting Tangalooma. You can simply just book the ferry over and do your own thing for the day, or there are heaps of tour & accommodation options. We booked the ‘Beach Day Cruise’ through Tangalooma Island Resort for $89 each. This pack is basically a look after yourself kind of day. Which was perfect for us! Also, it’s the best value for money because it covered your ferry tickets, use of the resort facilities, and includes lunch vouchers, that could be used at any of the cafes & restaurants.  

How to Get to Tangalooma

The ferry departs from the Holt Street Wharf in Brisbane. We drove up from the Gold Coast and that took us just over an hour. There’s plenty of free parking on Holt Street or it’s $15 a day to park at the ferry terminal. If you’re flying in, the ferry terminal is only a 10-minute drive from Brisbane airport.  

When we first arrived on the island all I could think about is getting to the beach, the water looked incredible. Luckily the pier is right in front of the resort. The beach is really long so there was plenty of room for everyone to have their own space. The ocean was calm, very clear, and the most amazing color.  

Find The Cheapest Flights to Brisbane with Skyscanner!

Snorkeling at the Tangalooma Shipwrecks

The best part about the day was snorkeling at the shipwrecks. There are 15 shipwrecks laying only a short swim from the shore. In 1963 these ships were deliberately sunk to create a break wall for smaller boats.

There are snorkeling tours you can book but honestly, you don’t need to! From the resort, it’s a 25-30 minutes walk, straight down the beach to the shipwrecks. Then from the shore, we swam out in under 5 minutes.

The only thing you’ll need to do is check the tide times, generally, the best time to snorkel is around 1.5 hours before low tide. Our plan was to go then but the wind was starting to pick up so we decided to go a bit earlier. By the time we got in the water it was about 2.5 hours before low tide and it was actually the most perfect time. In most areas, the visibility was very good and the currents weren’t too strong. We snorkeled for about an hour, didn’t see any turtles or dolphins but so many fish, and the wrecks looked awesome.

If you’re not keen on getting in the water, Tangalooma Island Resort offers glass-bottom boat and kayak tours. And, we took our own snorkeling gear but it’s possible to hire some on the island.

Day Tours & Accommodation at Tangalooma Resort

If you wanted to stay on the island for longer the accommodation at Tangalooma Island Resort looked beautiful and the rooms have the most gorgeous ocean views. There are also so many tours and activities available. Moreton Island is the world’s third-largest sand island, so during my next visit, I definitely want to go 4 wheel driving and sand tobogganing.

If you’re there in the evening you could take part in the unique opportunity to hand feed, wild bottlenose dolphins!

Book tours & activities on Moreton Island here.

Have you visited Tangalooma before? Comment below and tell me what you love most about this island.  

Thanks for reading,  

Happy Travels  

Book Your Day Trip or Holiday to Tangalooma Here;

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Planning a Trip? Travel Resources Below;

Where to Next?

If you want to travel around more of Australia, check out my Ultimate Guide to Travel Down Under . Which includes heaps of ideas for your Australian bucket list!

Searching For The Best Flights

Without a doubt the best site for comparing and booking flights is Skyscanner. Just click here to compare flights and get the best prices with Skyscanner. 

Booking Accommodation  

Then when it comes to booking accommodation; if you’re after a hostel the best place to search is HostelWorld.

Or, if you’d prefer a hotel or resort,  Booking.com or Agoda  are two of the best sites out there, they consistently return cheap rates.

Get Your Cashback

Before you book though don’t forget to activate your  Rakuten browser extension so you get cashback on these bookings. 

Don’t know what Rakuten is? Read my guide here!

And, Don’t Forget Travel Insurance 

Unfortunately, everything doesn’t always go to plan but travel insurance will protect you when it comes to illness, injury, theft & cancellation. I never travel overseas without travel insurance, it’s just not worth the risk! 

Cover-More is a trusted company and they also have COVID-19 benefits available. 

Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.

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This post has 8 comments.

Hi Elyse! Great post. Thank you for sharing it. The snorkelling looks like so much fun. I love your blog and will definitely be coming back to it when I finally get to travel Australia 🙂

Thank you so much Trea, really appreciate it. Hopefully, the borders open soon

Ah, I love Australia. Can’t wait to go back when the borders open! This island looks absolutely incredible and is now on my bucket list 😍

Yay, that’s awesome, and it’s so good how close it is to Brisbane.

Thanks for this helpful post! Snorkeling the shipwrecks would be amazing and I’d love to go. I appreciate your photos and your tips!

Thank you Erica, you’re very welcome

What an incredible mini holiday to celebrate your marriage! I love that you don’t even need to book a tour, you can just wander down and see the shipwreck! The beaches look incredible too!

Thank you, yeah it was all so amazing, the water was perfect

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Tangalooma Wrecks

Top ways to experience Tangalooma Wrecks and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Tangalooma Wrecks (Moreton Island) - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

• All-Inclusive Dolphin & Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise Brisbane (From AU$201.86)
• Moreton Island Eco Marine Safari Cruise and Snorkel (From AU$161.29)
• All-Inclusive Dolphin & Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise (Gold Coast Transfer) (From AU$227.22)
• Adventure Moreton Island Day Pass (From AU$130.86)
• Adventure Moreton Island Wrecks Adventure Package (From AU$181.58)
• (1.78 km) Tangalooma Island Resort
• (1.16 km) Beautiful beachfront home - a hop, a step & a jump to the water.
• (1.19 km) Beach Front Villa 49 - Air Conditioned
• (1.23 km) Tangalooma Beachfront Villa 44 with Air Conditioning
• (1.29 km) Beachfront villa 38
• (1.78 km) Tangalooma Coffee Shop
• (1.76 km) Beach Cafe
• (1.83 km) Fire & Stone
• (1.81 km) Tursiops Buffet
• (1.74 km) Beach BBQ

Tangalooma Wrecks, Moreton Island

Half submerged off the coast of moreton island is a cluster of fifteen marooned ships, known as the iconic tangalooma wrecks. but these wrecks have one very unique feature….

Throughout the history of sea travel, there have been hundreds of ships that have met their doom in the treacherous waters of the ocean, sinking down into their watery graves. The Tangalooma Wrecks, however, are different. Why is that you may ask? Well, their sinking was deliberate.

History of Tangalooma Wrecks

Back in the 60s, a large group of locals requested a harbour to be built along the coast, for small boats to dwell in. The government half-heartedly came through on that promise and decided to sink fifteen junk ships along the sandbank to form a break wall and provide a safe anchorage for the boats instead. Soon, however, they became a famous attraction for Moreton Island . With the ocean’s crystal-clear waters, you can easily see the rusted ships peaking above the waters, with the rest of their carcasses submerged in the green-blue waters. These ships have become a popular attraction in Moreton Island, drawing tourists from far and wide to snorkel in these fascinating wrecks. The submerged sections have even become a part of the reef, with corals making their homes here and colourful fish swimming in and out of the vessels. Interestingly, the word ‘Tangalooma’ translates as ‘where fish gather’.

15 boats were sunk off the shore of Moreton Island from the 1960s to the 1980s with one of the ships; the Maryborough, dating from 1885. Each of the wrecks are named which gives locals the feeling of a special connection to the wreck site. The depth of the water ranges from 16-27 metres however some of the wrecks are only about 12 metres down.

How You Can See the Tangalooma Wrecks

Boat or kayak, sea scooter, explore our brisbane tours.

Sunshine Coast Hinterland & Noosa Tour $159

1 Day Moreton Island Tour $95

Brisbane City Tour by Bike $69

1 Day Moreton Island Cruise with Dolphin Viewing $195

North Stradbroke Island Tour $179

• Brisbane Attractions
• Story Bridge Adventure Climb Tickets
• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
• Springbrook National Park

Book Moreton Island Tours

Adventure Moreton Island Day Pass

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Have an adventure on Moreton Island and enjoy a wide variety of water sports and beach activities.
• Snorkel with unique tropical marine life like dugongs, dolphins, turtles, and more.
• Go kayaking and enjoy the crystal clear waters of the third largest sand island in the world.
• Enjoy stand-up paddleboarding and the splashes that follow.
• Have a go at thrilling land activities too - mini-golf, tennis and basketball.
• Feel your adrenaline rush while participating in the beach sports in the area.
• Round trip ferry transfers from Brisbane
• 3-hour kayak hire
• 3-hour snorkeling equipment hire
• 1-hour stand-up paddleboard hire
• Land activities like tennis, volleyball, croquet
• Resort facilities

Moreton Island Shipwreck, Snorkel, Kayak & Sandboard Adventure Tour

• You can cancel these tickets up to 41 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Embark on a cruise across Moreton Bay by ferry on this full-day Moreton Island trip
• Join in adventures like snorkeling, touring around the Tangalooma Shipwrecks, paddling kayaks, and more
• Catch sight of turtles, fish, and other marine animals
• Enjoy a fresh and healthy picnic lunch prepared by your guide
• Explore the desert in a 4X4 and go sand tobogganing at speeds of over 40 miles per hour
• Fully guided tour of Moreton Island
• Snorkeling equipment, kayak and body board
• Lifejacket/safety vest and orientation
• A fresh picnic lunch prepared by the guide
• Round-trip transportation by 4WD bus and ferry
• Live tour commentary in English
• Hotel pick-up and drop off
• National park fees of $50 per adult and $35 per child 13 years and younger (to be paid in cash to driver on departure)
• Additional food and drinks
• Drinks, bottled water and snacks
• Children aged 5-14yrs, as well as students, enjoy reduced ticket pricing (carry a valid photo ID)

Moreton Island 4WD Eco Sightseeing Tour

• You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Enjoy a quick getaway from Brisbane and get whisked away to Moreton Island on a ferry.
• Following a relaxing 80-minute cruise, you will arrive at the bay.
• Find yourself surrounded by tall dunes, crystal clear waters, and stunning white-sand beaches.
• Drive a comfortable, air-conditioned 4WD coach and begin exploring the bushland and the beaches.
• Make your way to the romantic Honeymoon Bay, famous for its picturesque scenery.
• At North Point, soak in the naturally bubbling Champagne Pools.
• Cape Moreton is home to Queensland's oldest lighthouse. You can trace the history, culture, and makeup of the island at Cape Moreton Museum.
• Later, sit back and enjoy a picnic lunch and drinks on the beach.
• Before you take the ferry back to Brisbane, see the Tangalooma Ship Wrecks and admire the crystal clear western beaches.
• Fully-guided tour of Moreton Island
• Picnic lunch on the beach
• 4WD vehicle driven by your guide
• Pick-up and return service from Brisbane
• $50 per adult & $35 per child (13 and under), local fee component to be paid in cash to driver before departure
• Students, as well as children aged 5-14, enjoy reduced ticket pricing (carry a valid photo ID).

Tangalooma Wrecks Adventure Tour or Cruise

• Choose 3 adventures that thrill you the most off the coast of Brisbane at Moreton Island.
• Choose from a beach segway tour , stand-up paddle board , guided snorkel at Tangalooma, fishing , kayak , or snorkel gear and wetsuit hire .
• Explore marine life around a cluster of 15 sunken boats at the Tangalooma Wrecks.
• Snorkel around the shipwrecks with colorful tropical fish, turtles, dolphins and dugongs.
• Test your balance while stand-up paddleboarding and enjoy the beautiful waters of Moreton Island.
• Go kayaking and enjoy the currents of the tropical waters.
• Opt for a sightseeing cruise to discover Tangalooma Wrecks with a 90% chance of spotting dolphins, complete with gourmet meals and refreshments.

Wrecks tour (based on option selected)

• Round-trip ferry transfers from Brisbane
• Land activities
• 3 activities of your choosing from 6 options:
• Beach segway tour
• 1-hr stand-up paddle board hire
• Guided snorkeling at Tangalooma Wrecks
• Fish feeding tour & sightseeing cruise
• 3-hr fishing rod hire
• 3-hr kayak hire
• 3-hr snorkel gear & wetsuit hire

Cruise (based on option selected)

• Full-day Moreton Island cruise
• Marine experts
• Snorkel gear and beach gaming equipment
• Tropical lunch buffet (check menu here )
• Morning tea/coffee and muffin

Tour (based on option selected)

• 6:30am: Check-in, Tangalooma Wharf
• 7:30am: Ferry departure
• 9am: Arrive, Moreton Island
• 9am: Island exploration and choice of 3 activities
• 3:30pm: Depart, Moreton Island
• 4pm: Return ferry ride
• 5:15pm: Arrive, Tangalooma Wharf
• 9am Check-in opens, Rivergate Marina
• 9:30am Depart, Rivergate Marina
• 10:45am Arrive, Moreton Island
• 11am Snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks
• 12pm Tropical Buffet Lunch
• 1pm Free Island Beach Time and Kayaking
• 2:30 pm Marine Discovery Cruise: Dolphins, sea turtles & dugongs sightings
• 3:45 pm Depart, Moreton Island
• 5pm Arrive, Rivergate Marina
• Tip: Ascend Mount Tempest, the world's tallest coastal sand dune at 285 m, which offers breathtaking panoramic views.
• A medical questionnaire must be completed and signed by all passengers including parent/guardian for snorkelers under 16 years.
• Infants, children, and teenagers under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• The experience is not wheelchair-accessible.
• The experience is pram-accessible.
• It is not recommended to attend if you are very late in your pregnancy.
• Please bring a swimsuit, a change of dry clothes, and a towel.

Get Wrecked Guided Tour of Moreton Island with Snorkeling & Kayaking

• You can cancel these tickets up to 7 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Explore Moreton Island's natural beauty while snorkeling near some of the island's well-known shipwrecks and sliding down giant sand dunes on a full-day guided trip. -Take a leisurely cruise across Moreton Bay and get a bird's eye view of the island's natural beauty and lush rainforests.
• Slide down the giant sand dunes at up to 70 km/hour on a sand tobogganing ride.
• Swim in the pristine waters of Moreton Island and discover the vibrant marine life and coral reef.
• Discover the Tangalooma Wrecks and see the shipwrecks on a snorkeling adventure and a one-of-a-kind transparent kayaking experience.
• Take a plunge in the beautiful seas off Moreton Island's white sand beaches and soak in the sun.
• Enjoy a sumptuous lunch by the bay before taking a sunset boat back to the mainland to cap off the day.
• Expert English-speaking guide
• 4WD experience on Moreton Island
• Snorkeling equipment
• Safety vests
• Kayaks & equipment
• Roundtrip transfers from Brisbane or Gold Coast
• Levy: National Parks & Ferry fees (available at additional cost)
• The experience is restricted for guests aged 4 and under.
• The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, pram/stroller users, people with mobility issues, people with back and neck problems, and pregnant travelers.
• Please note the National Park fees are not included in the price. The fee of $70 per adult and $55 per child 13 years and younger (to be paid in cash to the driver on departure)

Scuba Dive Tour

• Choose an introductory dive or a certified dive into the Tangalooma Shipwrecks.
• Spot tropical marine life around Moreton Island, the third-largest sand island in the world.
• Check out the cluster of 15 ships that were purposely sunken in 1963.
• Dive into the site of the shipwrecks and explore the colorful corals and tropical reef fish in Tangalooma.
• Swim around wobbegong sharks, nudibranchs, rays, turtles and other fascinating marine creatures.
• Introductory or certified scuba dive (all equipment provided)
• 1-hour kayak hire
• 1-hour snorkel equipment hire
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Top things to do in Brisbane

Moreton Island

A complete nature lover’s paradise, Moreton Island is a perfect landscape for exploring and getting adventurous in and out of the blue waters and to discover the wildlife around the region. Situated at the doorstep of Brisbane, the island is 40 kilometers from the mainland and can be reached through a 75 min ferry ride. 

Known to be the Gem of South East Queensland, the place is a perfect getaway from the monotonous city life. The scenic beauty with white sand dunes, the turquoise waters, and vibrant blossoms are a sight to sore eyes. There are a lot of adventure sports like snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, and more that will leave you tripping! You can also check out a number of heritage sites like Cape Moreton or the 25 Dorothy Newnham Street.

Why Visit Moreton Island?

• A perfect paradise situated right outside Brisbane! Known as the gem of Southeast Queensland, Moreton Island is home to an array of adventurous activities, all under one sky.
•  Nested just an hour away from Brisbane, Moreton Island is the third-largest sand island in the entire globe. 
• Want to have a lazy beach holiday or go on an adventure spree, this is the place to be. 
• The beaches are ideal for swimming, fishing, surfing, and the western side is more relaxing with crystal blue water gently touching against the shore. 

Your Moreton Island Tours Explained

• This tour offers you a day-long adventure at Moreton Island which include an exciting variety of water sports and beach activities.
• Get an opportunity to snorkel with unique tropical marine and go kayaking to enjoy the crystal clear waters of the third largest sand island in the world.
• Enjoy stand-up paddleboarding as well!

Super Flexible Cancellation Policy: Get a full refund on canceling this ticket up to 24 hours before the schedule.

Wrecks Adventure Tour

• This tour gives you the chance to choose 3 adventures of your liking to indulge in at Moreton Island.
• Choose between a Beach Segway Tour, a Stand-Up Paddle Board Hire, a Guided Snorkel tour at the Tangalooma, a Wrecks Fish Feeding Tour and Sightseeing Cruise, a 3 hours Fishing Rod Hire, a 3 hours Kayak hire, or a 3 hours Snorkel Equipment and Wetsuit Hire.
• Wonder at the magnificent marine life around a cluster of 15 sunken boats at the Tangalooma Wrecks as you snorkel or go kayaking.

What is the Best Way to Buy Moreton Island Tours? Book Online

For the best Moreton Island tours remember to book online! Booking online offers you a smooth, hassle-free experience that also guarantees you great deals and discounts! Here's why you should book your Moreton Island tours online:

Advance Booking: Book your tickets in advance and avoid standing in long queues or missing out on rides!

Convenience : When you buy tickets online, you are reserving a seat for yourself and your group at the click of a button. No more long waits at ticketing counters!

Great Discounts: When you buy your tickets online, you get access to a range of great deals and discounts which help you stick to your budget and get great value for money!

Things to do at Moreton Island

There are so many fun activities that are offered at Moreton Island. If you have the adventure bug within your system and choose to get your feet dirty, here is a list of things that will please you of all kinds. 

Get set for your mind to get blown while you snorkel through 15 sunken shipwrecks amongst the marine life at the site. A quite interesting experience for a short trip from the city!

Experience Kayaking at night with various marine species and you will indulge in a whole new experience when the creatures get attracted to the LED strips on the kayaks that light your way.

Paddleboarding

Paddleboarding or paddle surfing is a popular water activity going around currently. Through this activity, you can have loads of fun on the waters at your own pace.

Mini-golf, Tennis, and Basketball

Apart from the water sports offered at the island, there is an abundance of a lot of land activities that can keep you busy during your trip. From beach sports to mini golf, tennis, and basketballs you will be packed until you are on the ferry heading back home. 

Tangalooma Wrecks

The Tangalooma Wrecks are a cluster of 15 ships where you can go snorkelling, take a tour around the wrecks on a sea scooter or get a scenic view of the wrecks on a helicopter.

Explore Marine Life

Moreton Island is home to diverse marine life that elevate its beauty and uniqueness. Discover Bottlenose dolphins, Dugongs, sea turtles, Australian Humpback dolphins as you find your way through Moreton Island.

Mt. Tempest Hike

If you are on Moreton Island, it is a must to take the Mt. Tempest hike. After the 285m climb up the top, you will witness a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Sunshine Coast all the way to the Gold Coast.

Cape Moreton Lighthouse

Moreton Island is home to the Cape Moreton Lighthouse, a great space to spot migrating whales, dolphins, dugongs and so much more. You can also find a Visitor Information Centre where you can learn all about the island’s history.

Plan Your Visit to Moreton Island

Timings : 7:00 am to 5:00 pm

Getting There

Address : Tangalooma Island Resort, Brisbane, Queensland 4025, Australia.

The island is situated 40km offshore in Moreton Bay from Brisbane. You can choose to travel to the island by ferry, barge, or even private boat.

• There are plenty of water sports and beach activities that visitors can try at Moreton Island. 
• There are a lot of food stalls present within the island if you wish to grab a snack. 
• Washrooms are available if you wish to freshen up. 
• The island is not suitable for wheelchair users and for pregnant women.
• However, the Tangalooma Island Resort in Moreton Island is wheelchair friendly with toilets and ramps access to most facilities, to the restaurants as well as the dining area. 

Moreton Island is the third-largest sand island in the world and has numerous breathtaking attractions in and around the island that can be explored during your visit.

• Blue Lagoon  
• Champagne Pools  
• Dolphin Lake  
• Honeymoon Bay  
• Mirapool Lagoon  

Dining is no exception at Moreton Island. Here are few restaurants to much onto a dish that you desire: 

• Castaways : Enjoy a lazy lunch at a cage and general store that offers everything that you require from holiday essentials to eggs benedict. 
• The Gutter Bar : Enjoy the freshest seafood, from fish to local oysters at The Gutter Bar, a space with a great vibe and a rustic décor ideal for a dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings. 
• Beach Café : Take in the mesmerising views of Moreton Bay while enjoying bistro style dining at the café. There is something in store to tempt everyone from made-to-order pizzas, burgers, light meals and so much more. 
• Fire&Stone : Enjoy exotic Chinese and Asian cuisine for a great lunch or dinner. 

• Budget Hotels: Moreton Island Accommodation Bali House , Manta Lodge and Scuba Centre , Brighton Hotel , Kippa Ring Village Motel
• Mid-range Hotels: Tangalooma Island Resort , Pandanus Palms Resort ,   Anchorage on Straddie , The Waterloo Bay Hotel  
• Luxury Hotels: The Islander Holiday Resort , Mintee on Deadmans , On the Beach Resort Bribie Island, Whalewatch Ocean Beach Resort, Allure Stradbroke Resort  

Visitor Tips

• Make sure you choose 3 adventures at Moreton Island that give you an adrenaline rush. 
• Explore the marine life around a cluster of 15 sunken boats – Tangalooma Wrecks. 
• The best time to visit the island is throughout the day as per your convenience. You get a beautiful view any time. 
• Make sure you spend at least 2 hours exploring the entire space and make the most of this adventure. 
• You can visit Moreton Island in a group, with your family or go all solo if you are a true adventure seeker. 
• Photography and Videography is allowed. 
• Make sure you carry comfortable footwear on this trip based on the activity you will be participating in. 
• Carry your swim suits because we are sure you would love to take a dive in the beaches around 
• Carry sunscreen, shades, hats to protect yourself from the sun rays. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Moreton Island Tours

Adventure Moreton Island Day Pass and Wrecks Adventure Tour are some of the best Moreton Island tours that offer your a comprehensive visit to the island and include a range of water sports and other activities.

Get the best Moreton Island tours by booking online, in advance for a seamless experience.

Buy cheap Moreton Island tickets online for great deals and discounts.

Snorkeling, kayaking, feed the dolphins at sunset, and climb Mt. Tempest, Swim in Blue lagoon, hit the sand tracks to name a few of the many best things that you could explore if you are an adventure seeker. 

A range of things could be included in your Moreton Island tour including snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding and other water and land based activities.

Moreton Island is situated 40kms offshore from Brisbane. You can reach your destination through a ferry, boat or barge. The ferries and barges run daily. 

The Moreton Islands are open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

There aren’t a lot of facilities available at Moreton Island, but you are welcome to drive to the closest campground to make use of the essential facilities. Just a few hundred metres from the beach, there is a Castaways Store & café where you can buy your essentials. 

There are a couple of restaurants situated on Moreton Island by the Castaways Store & Café, Tangalooma Coffee Shop and The Gutter Bar top the list. 

The island is a safe space to visit but it is recommended to go with your family or friends. Be cautious while taking a swim as there are no lifeguards situated around the Moreton Island. Better safe than sorry!

Moreton Island is well-known for its iconic range of beaches situated just off the coast of Brisbane and is listed as some of the top beaches in Queensland. 

Yes, Moreton Island has day trips and cruises. You can enjoy the beach without having to face much traffic and switch to cruise mode on a return day cruise to Tangalooma Island Resort, situated at the Island. 

Moreton Island tours start at AU$119.

It is ideal to have a car to travel on Moreton Island. Since it is mostly a National Park, you do require a vehicle access permit to drive on the island, even if you are just driving your way to the resort. 

Generally, there are no lifeguards patrolling around Moreton Island. It is important to be cautious while swimming or surfing as strong currents are witnessed around the Tangalooma Wrecks. Also, never swim alone!

Moreton Island has a number of places where you can pick things from if you have forgotten to carry something during your trip. 

A lot of people can be spotted frolicking on the bay side of Moreton. While you can enjoy a number of activities like snorkeling, dolphin feeding etc., the sharks can be seldom seen at Moreton Island but tend to remain in deeper water. 

Ensure you treat the water before drinking. There is fresh water available at Big Sandhills (western beach), Rous Battery (eastern beach), Eagers Beach (eastern beach), at the established campgrounds. 

Your Moreton Island

Adventure starts here: , ami day pass.

Spend the day exploring the crystal clear waters and the Tangalooma Shipwrecks at your own pace with  kayak ,  stand up paddle board  and  snorkeling equipment hire

Wrecks Adventure Tour

You’re the boss when it comes to our Wrecks Adventure Tour! Choose up to 3 unique adventures for your  Moreton Island Day Trip . Come and experience that Tangalooma Island has to offer with Adventure Moreton Island.

Create Your own adventure

Pack your swimmers & towel, grab your friends & family and discover the aquatic adventures waiting for you in the crystal clear waters of the bay and Tangalooma Shipwrecks. Come see all that Adventure Moreton Island has to offer at your leisure.

Whether you’re an Introductory (beginner/unlicensed) or Certified Diver (licensed),  Adventure Moreton Island  has a Scuba diving experience to suit you!  The Tangalooma Shipwrecks are Moreton Island’s premier dive location.

Your Adventure starts here:

Adventure Moreton Island is your one-stop shop with a wide range of activities, including snorkelling, kayaking, glass bottom boat cruises, scuba diving, parasailing and much more!  See the beauty of Moreton Island in full swing over at Tangalooma Island Resort. From your ferry trip over to your activities on the island, Adventure Moreton Island has it all. Find your adventure today!

Experience Adventure Moreton Island with us! For the best range of  outdoor activities and Island Day Trips! 

AMI is based at Tangalooma Island Resort, so you will also have access to all Tangalooma Vendors!

All Adventure Moreton Island packages include a return ferry transfer from Brisbane.

Meet our local wildlife:

Green Sea Turtles

Moreton Island is home to 5 different species of Sea Turtles and while snorkelling the wrecks it’s not uncommon to come across one going about their day. Sea Turtles often nest on the same beaches they were born on and the temperature of the sand is what determines the sex of the turtle. Moreton Islands cool sands mean that male turtles are more likely to hatch than females.

Wobbegong Sharks

Reading the word shark probably sounds intimidating however the Wobbegong Sharks that inhabit the wrecks are harmless. These bottom-dwelling sharks spend most of their time on the sea floor eating crabs and other smaller fish. The name “Wobbegong” comes from the “Australian-Aboriginal” language meaning “shaggy beard” which refers to the many growths on the bottom of it’s mouth.

Every weekend is an adventure

Moreton island: scuba diving tangalooma wrecks, is it worth it.

• Post published: 8 May 2018
• Post category: Australia / Oceania/South Pacific / Queensland

Mulgumpin (Moreton Island) is one of the best islands near Brisbane and a fantastic getaway to leave the city behind. It is incredible to have such a natural and exotic place accessible for a day trip. I have been there many times, mostly for snorkelling on the Tangalooma Wrecks. I finally decided to try scuba diving Tangalooma Wrecks. Is it worth it? Read on about this experience to make your own opinion.

Responsible travel tip : Did you know that your sunscreen could harm the fragile ecosystem of the coral reef? It’s essential to be mindful of what you’re applying to your skin when snorkelling or swimming near the reef. The best way to protect your skin from the sun is to cover up with long sleeves and pants. If you must use sunscreen, choose a mineral-based one to avoid harmful substances (see the full list here ). Mineral ingredients are less harmful to the environment and provide excellent protection. Apply the sunscreen at least 20 minutes before entering the water to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Scuba diving Tangalooma Wrecks vs snorkelling

I always prefer scuba diving rather than snorkelling. Not only do I find it easier and calmer, but it also offers more opportunities to see things from very close and to explore further down. However, I do admit that some places are as good for snorkelling as for scuba diving especially because diving requires more effort with all the equipment and the organisation , and I won’t even talk about the budget difference.

I always thought scuba diving Tangalooma Wrecks wouldn’t add a lot compared to snorkelling. But I was wrong.

It is not only about the abundance of friendly fish that you will also meet when you snorkel.  Tangalooma wrecks are very fun to explore . I particularly liked the offshore side of the wrecks, which we often skip when snorkelling as it’s deeper and more exposed to the current. More corals cover this part of the wreck than on the other side, and it looks fantastic when you look up. Plus, we got the opportunity to see from close the details of the Tangalooma Wrecks, like the huge propellers and rudders.

Your underwater photos don’t look that good? Check out these beginner tips for underwater photography!

Scuba diving Tangalooma Wrecks vs other Moreton Island scuba diving sites

Tangalooma wrecks is not moreton island’s best dive site, but it’s an easy one to access if you have your own equipment..

There are many better sites for scuba diving Australia’s East Coast than Tangalooma Wrecks, even near Brisbane for a day trip or a scuba diving weekend trip . But good shore dives are rarer and can be an excellent opportunity for a quick dive while non-divers in the group enjoy other activities.

Tangalooma Wrecks is a shore dive, and the wrecks cannot be easier to find. The car ferry brings you a few metres away from the wrecks, and there’s a resort nearby that has a dive shop. You can go for a weekend or day trip to Moreton Island and easily add scuba diving to your list of activities. There are many other things to do on Moreton Island , especially if you stay at the resort *.

However, if you are exclusively seeking a scuba diving experience on Moreton Island, I recommend having a look at other scuba diving sites such as the very reputed Flinders Reef , and Cherubs Cave . A few dive shops from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast organise trips there. The neighbour island, Minjerribah (Stradbroke Island) , also offers fantastic dives all year round. The dive shop on the island organises trips every day, and you often need to book in advance for the weekend.

Important things to know for scuba diving at Tangalooma Wrecks

Are you covered for scuba diving by your travel insurance? It’s worth double-checking. If not, I recommend DAN (Divers Alert Network) for those who dive regularly. WorldNomads * and Covermore * also make it easy to add adventurous activities like scuba diving to your plan.

Tangalooma Wrecks are accessible to Open Water certified scuba divers . Our maximum depth was 12.5 metres and our average depth was around 7 metres.

The ships were sunk on purpose to create a shelter for smaller boats. There are 15 wrecks in a line that you can explore one after the other. You can dive from a boat or swim to the wreck as they’re about 100 metres from the shore. Navigation isn’t complicated , and visibility is often quite good. However, the boat traffic is often heavy during weekends and boats go between the beach and the wrecks.

There are often strong currents at the wrecks . It is recommended to dive at slack tide . And even at slack tide, we had to plan a drift dive . Scuba divers who aren’t comfortable in current will be safer exploring the site with an experienced guide.

A standard rule is not to touch the wrecks : it’s sharp, and you could easily hurt yourself. Plus, there may be an animal you didn’t see which can be dangerous for you too.

How to organise a trip for scuba diving Tangalooma Wrecks

There are many ways to organise a trip for scuba diving tangalooma wrecks..

We dived Tangalooma Wrecks as part of a sailing trip around Moreton Bay while the rest of the crew was snorkelling. We brought all the scuba diving gear with us from Brisbane to Moreton Island. It was a fantastic break from the sailing. Although it’s the best way from my point of view, it’s not the easiest to organise!

If you feel confident enough to dive as a buddy pair by yourselves and you have your equipment, book a ferry from Brisbane to Moreton Island (a return trip can cost as little as $28). You will disembark a few metres away from the Tangalooma Wrecks. Another option may be to hire the equipment from Tangalooma resort dive shop ($99) but call before to confirm this is possible . If you’re not staying at the resort, you’ll need to obtain a free casual visitor day pass to go to the dive shop . Every time we’ve tried, they would only offer to join a tour and they even suspended the visitor day pass.

If you’re not confident about diving by yourselves , the dive shop offers guided tours ($229 with equipment). For a guided dive, the easiest (and maybe only) way is to book your Tangalooma Dive with Adventure Moreton Island  ($229, ferry from Brisbane included). You’ll get from Brisbane to Moreton Island via the Tangalooma Ferry and use Tangalooma resort dive shop Tangatours to organise your dive. Plus, you’ll have access to other equipment from the resort for the rest of your time on the island.

Have you tried scuba diving Tangalooma Wrecks on Moreton Island? Share your experience in the comments below.

Where to stay on moreton island to scuba dive tangalooma wrecks.

If you are staying in Bri sbane, you can go to Moreton Island as a day trip just for scuba diving Tangalooma Wrecks. But I’d recommend staying for more activities.

Like the more famous K’gari (Fraser Island) , Moreton Island is a sand island which means you can only explore Moreton Island via 4WD , on foot or by boat .

If you decide to explore the island as a pedestrian, you’ll have two options for the night:

• The Wreck Camping Area, just in front of Tangalooma Wrecks and not far from where the main ferries will drop you. It’s also within walking distance from the resort if you plan to hire gear from the dive shop.
• Tangalooma Island Resort * or Beach Front Villas * that you can conveniently reach with their catamaran from Brisbane

Taking a 4WD to Moreton Island? Check out this weekend itinerary !

Where are Tangalooma Wrecks?

Tangalooma Wrecks are located on the western side of Moreton Island , in Queensland ( Australia ). They’re in front of The Wrecks Camping Area. Although the parts above water were dramatically reduced a few years ago, they are easily visible, and you cannot miss them.

It takes about 1h15 to reach Moreton Island by ferry boat from Brisbane .

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