SS Yongala Dive Site
36 Braby St., Alva, Queensland
Widely considered one of the world's top diving sites, the SS Yongala provides a fascinating and colorful array of sea life alongside an interesting history. In March 1911, the SS Yongala sank off Cape Bowling Green, near Townsville, in a cyclone. All 122 people on board died, and the ship settled at a depth of 49–82 feet (15–29 meters).
Experienced divers come to the SS Yongala to dive amid the ecosystem developed around the ship for over a century. Divers can come face-to-face with rays and turtles, Maori wrasse, bull sharks, moray eels, schooling barracuda, and more. Plus, the vast coral formations and largely intact parts of the ship are fascinating. It’s the only reef formation in the region, attracting an enormous diversity of marine life.
Divers need open water diving experience to dive here. Divers with minimal experience must dive with a guide, while experienced divers may be able to go independently.
Note that dives only operate when sea conditions are favorable, which will usually be confirmed the day before the planned trip.
Guided diving trips to the site usually include plenty of lunch, snacks, and drinks.
Travelers who want to visit the dive site for longer can arrange an overnight trip on a liveaboard vessel.
Unlike some other diving sites in Queensland, the SS Yogala dive site is unsuitable for snorkelers.
Boat trips to the SS Yongala dive site typically depart from Alva Beach in Ayr, Queensland, 90 minutes’ drive south of Townsville. Transfers may be arranged by tour operators from Townsville or Magnetic Island, around 55 miles (89 kilometers) northwest of the dive site.
When conditions are favorable, you can dive at the SS Yongala dive site year-round. Visibility is generally better in the winter/dry season (June–August), even though water temperatures are slightly cooler. The summer/wet season (December–April) provides more feeding action and large schools of fish. January is a hectic time because it is peak vacation season in Australia, so book a place on a dive well in advance during this month.
Keen divers can visit one of the most unusual museums in the world from Townsville: the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA). Dive among dozens of underwater art installations and sculptures. As well as being a beautiful sight, the art aims to raise awareness about reef conservation. Snorkelers can also enjoy parts of MOUA.
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