HASTINGS REEF - A MAGNIFICENT OUTER EDGE REEF

After the short cruise from Michaelmas Cay we arrive at Seastar Lagoon in the Fish Bowl, the best part of Hastings Reef right on the Outer Edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Now the Seastar is surrounded by many different varieties of fish. This is a very different reef to that of Michaelmas Cay, typically of outer edge reefs; it rises steeply from the deep water ocean floor such that, the front the bow of the Seastar floats in 20 metres of water, while at the back, the stern of the boat hangs just off the reef edge in 3 metres of water.

After practicing and familiarizing yourself with the snorkelling and diving at Michaelmas Cay, you are now ready to experience the true wonders of this Outer Edge Reef, there are the coral caves, coral overhangs, deep water drop offs, coral canyons, swim throughs and shallow coral bays that are only metres from the side of Seastar. Along the steep edges there are swirling schools of small fish, colourful parrot fish, turtles, giant clams, “friendly" little reef sharks, bright yellow butterfly fish, pairs of rabbit fish, countless varieties of brightly coloured damsel fish and of course, Nemo.

In the snorkel area the depth of water over the top of the reef may be only one metre but at the bottom of the drop off on the reef edge the depth falls up to 10 metres. By simply snorkelling in those shallow waters of Michaelmas Cay you have gained the experience to tackle this magnificent reef, most find that the deeper water is now not as daunting as they thought and by using the exact same equipment they had an hour before, they feel very comfortable in the water. If you are still not quite comfortable snorkelling, or you would simply like to learn more about the reef and its inhabitants, you can join in our guided snorkelling tour.

Glass Bottom Boat

Join in on the guided Glass bottom boat tour on our superviewer with our commentary learning about the reef while staying dry.

Scuba Divers, this is your reef.

Certified Divers, take your time, explore all this reef offers. Dive through those swim throughs, search the coral caves and play with that friendly fish. Wally will follow you around like a playful puppy, he loves attention.

Introductory Divers, if you enjoyed your first dive, you will find that the experienced gained during that dive will assist you to fully enjoy this dive. With your Instructor by your side; you will be guided to the easily visited and more interesting areas of this amazing reef. Seastar Passenger Testimonials

With over 5 hours at the reef you are able to enjoy 3 certified or introductory dives if you wish. Prior to departing Hastings reef our afternoon tea is served. Departing the reef you have time to relax on the short journey home arriving in Cairns at 4.30pm